Ligety Wins World Cup Season Opener
Blazes past competition in giant slalom
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Despite being one of the most vocal critics of the International Ski Federation’s new mandate of longer, straighter skis, American Ted Ligety handily won the World Cup season opener in men’s giant slalom on Sunday. This season marks the first time racers will be required to use skis with the stipulated 40-meter turning radius in an effort improve safety. Skiers have opposed the rule, which takes the turning radius back to manufacturing blueprints of the 1980s. “It would be like going from a sports car to driving a semi truck,” Ligety told Outside in September 2011. “It’s just such a huge difference.” The 28-year-old Park City skier won the race by a massive 2.75-second margin, leaving the competition behind in the heavy snowfall. “I’m probably in the best shape that I’ve been in, but I was still more tired at the bottom of the hill than ever before,” Ligety said. “It’s testament to how much more strength you need on these skis.” The win marks the largest margin of victory in giant slalom in over 30 years.
Via New York Times