Start of the season in Beaver Creek 2025/2026... Well...

On St. Nicholas Day, I returned from Colorado after the Downhill World Cup opener in Beaver Creek. I look back on a difficult but enlightening week, during which the external conditions on the Birds of Prey course were anything but easy on all three days. Keywords: wind, snow, and diffuse lighting conditions.

The race result was rather modest, with me finishing in 45th place, because I made too many mistakes. The bright spot was at least the 17th fastest time in the last sector; but to be successful, all sectors have to be reasonably fast... As we know, our sport takes place outdoors...you have to accept that. So, wipe your mouth and look ahead.

Next week, I'll be continuing in Santa Caterina, Italy, where the first speed week at the European Cup level awaits me.

See you soon on the slopes... and with sportsman's regards

Livio

Photocredit: Sven Thomann / Blick