Anna Gasser: World Cup qualification in the Engadine – medal in sight?

Anna Gasser: World Cup qualification in the Engadine – medal in sight?

Carinthia's snowboard heroine Anna Gasser is about to make her next big appearance: From Thursday, the 33-year-old will be fighting for precious metal at the Snowboard and Ski Freestyle World Championships in the picturesque Engadine, Switzerland. Unlike her previous competitions, this time the athlete is not just interested in winning. “This Olympic photo is the worst for me,” reflected Gasser about her jump to gold in Beijing 2022, underlining that the pressure on her has grown.

After three intensive days of training, Gasser was optimistic on Tuesday. "Today I was able to do tricks from the top to the bottom of the course for the first time. Now I'm relatively happy and excited," she reported at a media event. Despite initial difficulties due to poor weather conditions, the conditions in the St. Moritz region were positive on Tuesday. “We made full use of the time because the course is extremely long and difficult,” said Gasser. To qualify for the final, she must remain clean in the slopestyle qualification.

Challenges and opportunities

The 33-year-old is aware of the challenges: "For me, a qualification is worse than a final. One small mistake and you're gone." Nevertheless, she relies on her performance and the possibility of winning a medal in the competition. However, your chances of advancement also depend on the weather; For the finale this weekend, the forecast points to storms and snow. “When the conditions are bad, I know my chances go down,” she added, while emphasizing that she can compete with the best athletes when the conditions are right. Loud laola1.at Gasser's athletic ability could be enough to make her a medal contender.