Robinson Triumphs in Giant Slalom Comeback at Kronplatz

Robinson Triumphs in Giant Slalom Comeback at Kronplatz

Alice Robinson achieved a remarkable victory in the giant slalom at Kronplatz, overtaking competitors like Lara Gut-Behrami and Paula Moltzan. After a strong second run, she secured her fourth World Cup win. The event featured notable comebacks, with Paula Moltzan climbing seven spots, while Federica Brignone, the early leader, disappointingly did not finish. Lena Dürr excelled among German racers, finishing 22nd. The event served as a prelude to the upcoming Alpine Ski World Championships.

Alice Robinson’s Stunning Victory in Giant Slalom

In an unexpected turn of events, Alice Robinson clinched the giant slalom title at Kronplatz. The talented New Zealander surged ahead of Switzerland’s Lara Gut-Behrami and American skier Paula Moltzan, while Lena Dürr stood out as the sole German competitor to score World Cup points.

Exciting Comebacks and Unexpected Challenges

The giant slalom event at Kronplatz on January 21, 2025, was filled with thrilling comebacks. Alice Robinson, who initially finished the first run in fifth place, displayed remarkable skill and determination to ascend to the top. Paula Moltzan, who started in third, also made a significant leap, moving up seven positions. Meanwhile, the frontrunner after the initial run, Italy’s Federica Brignone, faced disappointment by not finishing her home race.

Before the second run commenced, the top eight racers were closely packed within a second of each other, creating an atmosphere of anticipation. Alice Robinson, trailing by half a second after the first run, showcased her prowess in the second run, even leading by nearly a second at one point. Ultimately, her performance secured her position at the top, marking her fourth World Cup victory and her first in nearly four years.

Swede Sara Hector, who was positioned third after the first run, took risks that led to a costly mistake in the upper section of the course, resulting in her failure to finish. Despite falling, Hector exited the course unharmed. Similarly, Federica Brignone, who had previously captured the Super-G title in Cortina d’Ampezzo, succumbed to the pressure and did not complete the race.

Lena Dürr started the second run with determination, showcasing an impressive performance that allowed her to rise six places and finish 22nd (+3.48 seconds). “Racing with number one on this slope was incredibly enjoyable,” Dürr expressed in a BR interview. “I felt satisfied with my run, as it was an improvement compared to the first.”

Unfortunately, other DSV racers did not qualify for the second run, with Emma Aicher finishing in 32nd place and both Fabiana Dorigo and Jana Fritz failing to finish. This event served as a mixed rehearsal for the Alpine Ski World Championships, set to take place in Saalbach-Hinterglemm in two weeks.

Austrian skier Julia Scheib also faced challenges, unable to finish despite having the fastest time temporarily in the first run at the third-to-last gate. Sofia Goggia did not complete the race, and her fellow countrywoman Marta Bassino withdrew due to illness.

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