Levi passes snow control with flying colors

Teams have started training in Levi with quality snow conditions. World Cup Levi

The official snow control for the Audi FIS Alpine Ski World Cup slalom opening at Levi, Finland, took place on Thursday. FIS Chief Race Director of the World Cup Men Markus Waldner was pleased with the snow conditions on the race course, and the the competitions were confirmed as scheduled on Nov. 15 and 16.

“We are very happy that winter has arrived in time for the Organizing Committee in Levi to finalize the preparation of the race slope in time for the snow inspection. We are pleased to be able to confirm without hesitation, the two slalom races on the Levi Black on the 15th and 16th of November. The conditions are great, it’s nice and cold and we are looking forward to an exciting opening of the slalom season,” announced Waldner.

Thanks to the course crew’s hard work and efficient snow-making system, the snow has been produced on the race course in record time.

“We have enough snow in the course. Snowmaking and other operations has been made in record time and some even ahead of time. Cold time after the mid October allowed good conditions for snowmaking. Staff has done great work. In addition the last investments in our snowmaking system is shown,” commented Chief of Race Petri Tuomikoski.

Due to the positive snow situation, some teams have already arrived in Levi. At the moment, Norway, Germany, Croatia, and of course Finland have all started their training at the venue. The Swedish team will begin on Thursday.

“The teams have advanced their arrivals so our goal is to open the training area at the Frontslope as soon as possible, latest on the weekend,” added Tuomikoski.

Norwegian Henrik Kristoffersen was pleased with the conditions on the race course.

“We had our first trainings today. The race is in a good condition; there sure is enough snow. It’s still a bit icy so it’s aggressive but over all it’s in a really good condition.”

The young skier has fond memories from World Cup Levi.

“Last year I took my first podium place here at Levi so this race is a big deal for me. I’m looking forward the competition. I’m feeling pretty ok. Off course I still have some work to do and need couple days to get the rhythm but it’s looking good.”

Release courtesy of FIS