The downhill competition always proves to be a highlight of any Winter Games, and this year is set to be no different.
Downhill races are the fastest of all the Alpine events, and they make for spectacular theatre. They are formatted as a time trial, and in the pursuit of glory skiers regularly pass the 130 k/h mark.
At Sochi, the downhill race will be hosted on the Rosa Khutor mountain. The course was designed by the Swiss Bernhard Russi, and it promises to be a true challenge for all the racers involved. Starting with a very steep opening segment, the track follows down into a forested section before finishing off after a total vertical descent of 3,527 metres.
In the men’s downhill the US’s Bode Miller is a top contender for the gold medal, but he will face some tough opposition from his European counterparts. Austrian racers are sure to feature, but with Hannes Reichelt ruled out through injury their hopes will rest with Marcel Hirscher. Norway’s Aksel Lund Svindal is also sure to be there or there abouts.
In the women’s race, an injury to American skier Lindsey Vonn has left the field wide open. Slovenia’s Tina Maze is currently in red hot form, but Germany’s Maria Hofl-Riesch is also expected to finish on the podium.
In terms of Britain’s aspirations, it would be expecting a lot to anticipate a medal; however Chemmy Alcott represents our best chance in this event.
The men’s downhill race will take place on Sunday 9 February, and the women’s on Wednesday 12 February.
