The ongoing heavy snowfall in Cortina has led to the cancellation of the first women’s downhill training session at the Milan-Cortina Olympics. Approximately 20 centimeters of snow have already covered the Olympia delle Tofane course, with more snow falling throughout Wednesday evening. Due to the weather forecast indicating continued snowfall overnight, the decision was made by Peter Gerdol, the chief race director of the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS), during a team captains’ meeting.
Efforts will now be focused on preparing for Friday’s morning training session, which is crucial for the upcoming downhill race. Thierry Robert-Luciani, an FIS meteorologist, mentioned that the intense snowfall is expected to persist overnight and cease by midday the following day.
Originally, Thursday was set for the initial of three training sessions, with two more planned for Friday and Saturday before the main downhill race on Sunday. According to regulations, at least one training session must be conducted before the race can proceed.
New Zealand’s athlete, Alice Robinson, expressed confidence in the event’s organization despite the snow, stating optimism for the race day arrangements. The postponement of Thursday’s training means that Lindsey Vonn, the 2010 Olympic downhill champion and a top contender for Sunday’s race, will have to delay testing her injured left knee. Vonn, who sustained an ACL injury in a recent World Cup event, remains determined to compete despite the setback.