Warm weather in Lenzerheide for World Cup Finals

By Published On: March 15th, 2011Comments Off on 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

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About the Author: Hank McKee

In memoriam: The veteran of the staff, McKee started with Ski Racing in 1980. Over the seasons, he covered virtually every aspect of the sport, from the pro tours to junior racing, freestyle and World Cup alpine competition. He wrote the first national stories for many U.S. team stars, and was still around to report on their retirements. “Longevity has its rewards,” he said, “but it’s a slow process.”