Warm weather in Lenzerheide for World Cup Finals
LENZERHEIDE, Switzerland – Weather could be a major factor in tomorrow’s (Wednesday March 16) downhill races as warm temperatures plague the start of the World Cup Finals. The thermometer is not expected to hit freezing all night from the start, which is at 7,404 feet to the finish area at 5,004 feet.
The men lead off with a 9.30am start but the women do not start until 11.30am when temperatures could reach 45 degrees at the finish. While Forecasts vary, there is a chance of rain showers as well.
Speaking to the coaches meeting the evening prior to the downhill, Atle Skaardl, the women’s World Cup race director, cautioned that the jury expected to have to use chemicals on the course.
Early starts in soft conditions provide a better surface for the racers, but it is not to be for the U. S. save for Stacey Cook who goes 7. Lindsey Vonn races 21, Julia Mancuso 22 and Leanne Smith 23 and last. On the men’s side Ted Ligety goes 23 as well.
In the men’s race the two top contenders, Austria’s Michael Walchhoffer and Switzerland’s Didier Cuche go 21 and 22. Only one will pick up the downhill crystal.
Didier Cuche and Michael Walchhofer composite by Gepa