Winter magic and setbacks: Eva Pinkelnig and Johannes Strolz in conversation

Winter magic and setbacks: Eva Pinkelnig and Johannes Strolz in conversation

The Christmas season is just around the corner, but it brings less contemplative moments than one could expect for the two Austrian winter athletes Eva Pinkelnig and Johannes Strolz. While Pinkelnig is preparing for the World Cup in Engelberg, Strolz will take part in a slalom in Alta Badia on December 23. "The Festival of Christmas is the festival of love," says the ÖSV ski jumper, who emphasizes that there will be no gifts under the tree with her and her family. Instead, they donate to the needy to help others, as they were supported even in difficult times. According to laola1.at she explains: "This is exactly the meaning of Christmas."

Both athletes have already had to experience considerable setbacks in their careers, what they discussed in a conversation with krone.at . Pinkelnig, which has suffered a spleen tear, sees her return to ski jumping as a success thanks to a strong support system. Strolz talks about his challenges to concentrate on the essence of sport to find motivation, even if the big goals seem unreachable. "Setbacks are part of life," says Pinkelnig, and further: "What always makes me return is the inner fire, the passion for movement." Strolz adds: "If you seem so far away from the big goals, you have to focus on the basic things."

The common interest in sporting development and the basic values as well as the pre -Christmas challenges show the close connection between the two athletes. For Pinkelnig, December 24th becomes the first day for reflection and at the moment with the family, while Strolz also wants health for his family, "everything else can be gained somehow". Despite the sporting burden and the challenges for Christmas, the spirit of giving and cohesion remains strongly anchored in their hearts.