Marco Schwarz Triumphs in Super-G Ahead of Winter Olympics

Marco Schwarz of Austria has made a significant return to Alpine skiing, winning his second race in just seven days with a super-G victory in Livigno, Italy. This win marks his eighth career triumph and his first in a speed event since overcoming knee and back injuries that sidelined him for two years. Schwarz previously secured a giant slalom victory in Alta Badia, Italy, just a week before his super-G win. He expressed satisfaction with his performance, stating, “I had a really good run and it feels good to be back in the speed discipline... that was like a milestone again.”

Associated Press

In the Livigno super-G, Schwarz outperformed a strong field, defeating Swiss competitors Alexis Monney, Franjo von Allmen, and Marco Odermatt, who finished just two to three-tenths of a second behind him. The race took place on the Li Zeta course, a new venue for World Cup events, which presented challenges including two jumps that tested the racers' balance and technique. Notably, Odermatt, who previously battled Schwarz for the overall standings, struggled with the course, losing time due to a misstep after the first jump.

Associated Press

The Li Zeta course, starting at an altitude of 2,375 meters and featuring a maximum gradient of 47 percent, proved difficult for many competitors. The first jump required skiers to land on a bumpy surface and quickly regain balance for a sharp right turn, where Odermatt lost significant time. Additionally, French racer Matthieu Bailet was poised for a podium finish but skied out after the final jump. Czech racer Jan Zabystran, who had won the previous super-G, finished outside the top 20, 0.93 seconds off the lead.

Associated Press

The super-G in Livigno was the last speed event before the next super-G scheduled for January 16 in Wengen, Switzerland. The men’s World Cup will continue in Italy with a night slalom in Madonna di Campiglio on January 7, just weeks before the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics.

Associated Press

Schwarz highlighted the importance of his recent performances, noting, “Since placing 13th in a super-G in Val Gardena last week, I have the feeling back that my speed skiing is good again and that I can compete on the highest level.” His return to form is seen as a positive development for the Austrian team as they prepare for the upcoming Olympics.

Associated Press

While Schwarz's victory is celebrated, the challenges faced by other competitors, particularly Odermatt, raise questions about the course's suitability for high-stakes competition. Critics argue that the Li Zeta course may not provide a fair testing ground for athletes, given its unique difficulties.

Associated Press

• “I had a really good run and it feels good to be back in the speed discipline, as well, on the top or on the podium,” — Marco Schwarz, Austrian Alpine Skier

Associated Press

• “To be back on the top spot in Alta Badia, that was like a milestone again.” — Marco Schwarz, Austrian Alpine Skier

Associated Press

This series of events underscores the competitive nature of Alpine skiing as athletes gear up for the Winter Olympics, with Schwarz's recent successes positioning him as a key contender.

Associated Press