Swiss racer Marco Odermatt claimed the fastest time in the first run of the World Cup giant slalom on December 3, 2023, at Beaver Creek, Colorado. This performance positions him for a potential second victory on the Birds of Prey course within four days, following his triumph in the downhill event last Thursday.
Odermatt clocked a remarkable time of 1 minute, 8.80 seconds, finishing with a significant lead of 0.86 seconds over both Brazilian racer Lucas Pinheiro Braathen and Norwegian skier Henrik Kristoffersen, who recorded identical times. Four racers are within a second of Odermatt, including his teammate Thomas Tumler, the defending giant slalom champion at Beaver Creek. Tumler’s victory here marks his only win on the World Cup circuit.
The day was particularly crucial for Odermatt as he aims to regain momentum in the giant slalom discipline. He experienced a setback during the first run at Copper Mountain on November 28, where a fall ended his impressive streak of eight consecutive World Cup podium finishes in giant slalom.
American racer River Radamus finished in 18th place, securing a spot for the second run with a time 1.78 seconds behind Odermatt. His teammates, George Steffey and Ryder Sarchett, finished in 25th and 28th places respectively, also qualifying for the second run.
The competition continues as the men’s circuit prepares to move to Val d’Isere, France, next weekend for both a giant slalom and a slalom event. With such competitive performances, the excitement surrounding the World Cup circuit remains high, and fans eagerly anticipate the next thrilling races.
