Alpine skiing
Before the ski classic: Dreßen optimistic, Sander ailing
Thomas Dreßen hopes to slowly get back to his old form. photo
© John Locher/AP/dpa
The first downhill classic of the season is coming up in Val Gardena. In the German team, Thomas Dreßen believes he is in up-and-coming form. Meanwhile, teammate Andreas Sander is struggling with the consequences of a severe fall.
Germany’s downhill skiers go into the first classic of the new alpine season with completely different feelings. The former vice world champion Before leaving Val Gardena on Saturday (11.45 a.m./ZDF and Eurosport), Andreas Sander admitted that a violent fall in training had left its mark. “I’m pain-free,” said the 34-year-old. However, his movements are restricted. “Let’s check what the body has really suffered.”
Sander had thrown it off the track in the lower part of the famous Saslong, he hit his head and back and landed in a safety net. In the World Cup sprint downhill (46th) and the Super-G (51st) he clearly missed out on a top 30 place. The 2021 World Cup runner-up was actually in good form and traveled to South Tyrol as a contender for top places. “Maybe things will go better tomorrow…” he said before the long descent on Saturday.
Thomas Dreßen wants to go into the third race at the foot of the mighty Sassolungo with optimism and self-confidence. After a long period full of injuries, the 2018 Kitzbühel champion botched the shortened descent on Thursday in 41st place, just like Sander, but improved significantly in the Super-G the next day. Although he only came 18th, he was happy with his performance. “I don’t really care about the rank,” said the Upper Bavarian.
Dreßen had to struggle with health problems
“For me it was positive that I was able to swing back at the finish and that the time gap was limited.” Winner Vincent Kriechmayr from Austria was only 0.48 seconds away. “With today’s self-confidence, I’m sure it will be easier for me tomorrow,” predicted Dreßen.
The 30-year-old has struggled with health setbacks in recent years and hopes to slowly get back to his old form. He is ambitious. “At the moment I see myself as a top ten driver with the option – if I have a good day and everything works out – to move forward,” he said.
In addition to Sander and Dreßen, Romed Baumann, Josef Ferstl and Simon Jocher are also competing for the German Ski Association (DSV).