Sven Micossé (text), Benjamin Fisch (video)
“I’m happy to be able to stand here,” says Kim Gubser after the final at Big Air Chur. He reached 10th place at the home world cup of the Bündner. The start of the Olympic season was successful, but started out bumpy and was on the brink for a long time. In the end there is a feeling of joy, relief, but also a little disappointment.
Graubünden capital instead of North America or Asia. For the freeskiers it is a big thing to finally take part in such a big event near them. “The joy is great. So everyone can come to Chur and our sport is put in a bigger light, ”said the 21-year-old on Friday afternoon.
More attention since the World Cup
The Davoser has been competing in the World Cup since 2015 and reached the peak of his career at the beginning of the year in Aspen. In Aspen he took bronze in Big Air at the World Championships. Since then, the hype about his person has also increased. But he doesn’t let that deter him, keeps a cool head and doesn’t put too much pressure on himself. Because: “If I put too much pressure on myself, I can’t ski the way I want.”
Hip-hop bass can be heard from the pits and the first 27 drivers set out to catch up on what was missed on Thursday. The day before, the second and last training session was canceled due to the weather conditions.
While he lands too softly on the first jump, Gubser inspires the audience and the jury with his second attempt. But he has to fear for a long time because he was one of the first to start. After the tremors, it’s time to keep your nerve: «I’ve already won for myself. It was my goal to reach the final. “
Wind causes interruption
But when Fabian Bösch and Co try to imitate him, things tip over. Strong winds get in the way of the competition – again! The second group of men has to be patient for a long time. Only when the sun has given way to night can the flight artists finally go on. But Kim is the only Swiss in the final.
Gubser falls there twice. The windy conditions would have made it difficult to assess. “Sadly it did not work. Of course it’s a disappointment, but I’m all the happier to be here. ” Freestyle is and will remain a spectacular extreme sport. Victory in a thrilling final thriller went to Matej Svancer (Austria), who scored an unbelievable 99.00 points. Teal Harle (Kan) and Birk Ruud (No) follow behind.
What feeling remains in the end after the exciting start? “I’m so happy. Great atmosphere and the home crowd makes it even better. “