Hemetsberger: In pain in the hunt for a new Kitz podium position!

Hemetsberger: In pain in the hunt for a new Kitz podium position!

Vincent Kriechmayr was the shining hero in downhill training in Kitzbühel and finished in second place after suffering a torn medial ligament in his right knee in a fall in Wengen two weeks ago. Despite the pain, which he had to relieve with painkillers, he stated that he was able to block out the pain with adrenaline while driving. “Now I have a bit of a problem, but that's normal after the stress, not so tragic,” said the Upper Austrian after training and announced further therapy sessions, as reported by vienna.at reported.

Fighting spirit in Kitzbühel

Daniel Hemetsberger, also from Upper Austria, had a mixed weekend. After a disappointing 33rd place in the first downhill, in which he lost the racing line due to a minor accident, he had to make a painful realization when his knee began to swell. “I hardly slept at all,” he said after the intensive therapy measures on Friday evening, which did not bring the desired result. Despite his doubts about whether his knee would hold up before the competition, he fought his way to a solid eighth place finish on Saturday. “I didn't take full risks, but it was an enjoyable trip, and given the circumstances, I'm more than satisfied,” said Hemetsberger laola1.at reported.

The challenge on the legendary Streif is enormous, and Hemetsberger shows what it means to face your own fears. After several torn cruciate ligaments and setbacks in his career, he not only fought his way back, but also took on the role of a top performer in the ÖSV speed team after Matthias Mayer resigned. “I should be the second force and would like to catch up closer to Vinc,” emphasized Hemetsberger, who is still dealing with his own expectations and wants to support the younger generation.