Every year, the world's elite skiers kick off the World Cup season on the Rettenbach Glacier. And every year, the stars, the competitions, and the opening ski season are celebrated with a major supporting program in October.
Right at the start of the Ski World Cup season, giant slalom athletes face one of the toughest challenges of the entire winter. Glacier edge, icefall, and elephant drinking trough: The sections of the World Cup slope are as legendary as they are feared. And for good reason: Up to 68° gradients and the high altitude demand perfect technique and endurance from the athletes in equal measure.
The Ski World Cup opening race, along with the final, is the only race on the calendar where both women and men compete on the same slope. If you ask the women's racers, the race in Sölden is still described as the most difficult of the season – and that's right at the start. The steep and very long slope is considered the key point. The motto for a perfect run is, in short: Get into the rhythm in the upper, flat section before heading into the steep slope, holding the line and skiing as actively as possible to maintain your speed to the finish.
Exciting for the spectators – as is the supporting program: The daily World Cup and Glacier Parties create the perfect atmosphere. Further information about the entire program can be found at www.soelden.com.
