Austrian Young Skiers Shine at National Championships on Turracher Höhe

Last week, the best young ski talents in Austria competed at the Austrian School Ski Championships in Super-G, giant slalom, and slalom on the Turracher Höhe. The event showcased the future of Austrian skiing, with athletes demonstrating a high level of professionalism, and skill.

Talent Development is Key for Austrian Skiing

Harald Kirchmair, ÖSV youth leader, emphasized the importance of fundamental skiing skills, courage, and determination for success in competitive skiing. “We are in ski racing, where basic skiing skills play a very important role and then of course also components such as courage and determination. You have to be confident in the whole thing, you have to learn it step by step,” Kirchmair stated.

Around 150 young athletes participated, including 15 from Carinthia. Christian Walder, sporting director of the Carinthian State Ski Association, highlighted the crucial role of youth development for the continued success of Austrian skiing. “The young talent is also the future for Austrian skiing, because at a certain age you stop competing in the World Cup. You necessitate young talent so that we can continue to be successful in skiing and, above all, from a Carinthian perspective.”

Carinthian Athletes Dominate the Podium

Fifteen-year-old Paula Anderwald from SC Arnoldstein was a standout performer, winning gold medals in both the super-G and giant slalom. Despite missing a hat trick due to a slalom mistake, Anderwald expressed satisfaction with her performance. “I’m very happy with the performance yesterday and the day before yesterday. The slope was really great and the runs were also very cool,” she said. “It just happens, one small mistake and then you’re gone.”

Fabio Dohr and Emma Kienleitner also secured podium finishes for Carinthia. Kienleitner shared her surprise and pride, stating, “It surprised me a lot because I wasn’t actually expecting it. I’m extremely proud. Of course I’m most satisfied with the slalom. But I could have done even better with the giant slalom. And the Super-G too. But overall I’m actually very satisfied.” Dohr expressed ambitious goals, including competing in the World Cup and winning an Olympic medal.

Need for Increased Funding

To support the development of young talent, Dieter Mörtl, President of the regional association, called for increased financial resources and permanent training opportunities. “Politicians should primarily ensure this, especially for the young talent. We do a relatively good job and our trainers are on the road 24/7 in the winter so that we can continue to provide a broad range. Of course we need more financial resources.”

The Turracher Höhe ski area is known for its snow-sure conditions and variety of slopes, offering a suitable environment for training and competition. Turracher Pinelodges highlights the area’s altitude of almost 1,800m and 42 kilometers of slopes.

The Austrian Alpine Ski Championships are organized annually by the Austrian Ski Federation (ÖSV). More information about the championships can be found on Wikipedia.