KILLINGTON, Vt. – The World Cup returned to Killington, drawing large crowds and showcasing great skiing. After being shut out of a podium spot in both races last year, and downplaying her prospects at this year’s pre-race press conference, Mikaela Shiffrin, the American phenom and most decorated skier in history, came charging back to the podium this year, placing third in Saturday’s giant slalom, and winning the slalom on Sunday. Shiffrin, the fastest skier in the first run of the slalom race on Sunday morning, needed an epic second run after Slovakia’s Petra Vlhova, who was in third place after the first run, put down a blistering second run. Not to be outdone, the American danced her way down the slalom course with a spectacular second run of her own to clinch the title and her 90th World Cup victory. Also with strong showings were Americans Paula Moltzan, who placed eighth in both the slalom and giant slalom, and A.J. Hurt, who finished 19th in the giant slalom.
As in the past, this year’s World Cup weekend was extremely successful, with a total attendance of 34,000 over the three days. The large crowd energized the atmosphere, ringing cowbells and cheering for the skiers as they flew down the racecourse. The Killington Cup is a unique combination of a world-class sporting event and a hometown celebration, with young racers and fans getting the opportunity to interact with their heroes, who graciously make themselves available for autographs and selfies. It is a feel-good event enjoyed by both the spectators and the athletes alike, and is always a great way to spend a Thanksgiving weekend.
Written by Neal Magnus.