Didier Cuche, a four time winner at Kitzbuehel with nine podiums over the years, was fastest in the training run Thursday (Jan. 20) ending a string of training run wins by Christof Innerhofer, who placed second. Georg Streitberger was third and Bode Miller fourth as training was finally held.

The training run was marred by the crash of Hans Grugger, high on the course at the Mausefalle. He lost control entering the jump and hit his head hard on the icy surface. He lost consciousness and was airlifted off the track by helicopter.

The completion of the training run was a relief to organizers struggling to get the most famous ski race, the Hahnenkamm downhill, in between rain, fog and snow. While the race was delayed for “course coloring,” or dying so racers could see where the edges of the course were, the final chance for a full length training run was held without further incident.

“The visibility was bad when I went and it probably is going to get a little bit worse,” said Bode Miller – the 21st starter, “but it’s really the snow conditions that are making it so tough right now. It’s really rattlie with lots of bumps. … Sure, it’s dangerous, but that’s the Hahenkamm, it’s dangerous either way. That’s a big part of what makes this race so cool.”

With training complete the full Hahnenkamm schedule – super G Friday, downhill Saturday and slalom Sunday with a traditional combined scored via the DH and slalom results – can be pursued. Had Thursday’s trainer not been held alternative scheduling would have been required.

Beyond the top four Klaus Kroell and Tonias Gruenenfelder – both winners previously this season – were fifth and sixth respectively and World Cup overall leader Ivica Kostelic –  not known for his downhill prowess – was seventh. Canada could celebrate the return to action of Erik Guay – he suspended his season to deal with a sore back – in eighth. Jan Hudec, with a broken hand, did not start.

Other North American results included Travis Ganong in 24th and Ted Ligety 31st.

It was the first run down the the Streif track for Ganong. “At the start I was pretty nervous,” said the rookie, “I mean, it’s the Hahenkamm. It’s the toughest downhill race in the world. And when I crossed the finish line it was easily the most fun thing I have ever done.”

“Kitzbuehel is an unbelievable place,” said U.S. Head Coach Sasha Rearick. “There is unbelievable energy here. It doesn’t take much to get the guys fired up. They come in here and are excitied about it from the first day. The energy is here. It’s just about executing on race day.”

“In three seconds you’re going 60mph and then the earth drops out from underneath you in the Mausefalle,” said Steven Nyman, the 33rd finisher on the day.

Click here to watch Live Timing results of this weekend’s races.