Fog delays giant slalom

25th February 2010, by Chris Gill

Landmark in the fog

Fog in Whistler has forced the women’s giant slalom into another day, with postponement of the second run.

The race got off to a shaky start on Wednesday, when poor visibility and intermittent snowfall gave a tough first run for the ladies – particularly on the upper sections of the course.

Starting times between each competitor had been reduced, which meant if someone crashed out the next person could be on the run before they have had time to move. This happened to American Lyndsey Vonn, who crashed out part way. With defending champion Julia Mancuso already on the course, officials issued a rare yellow flag – meaning Mancuso had to pull up. The stoppage clearly affected Mancuso’s performance, her re-run 1.30 seconds behind Elisabeth Goergl of Austria (the current leader.)

Britain’s Chemmy Alcott also had a difficult run, but made it down to lie in 25th position at the half way stage.

The weather worsened during the morning, forcing the decision to reschedule the second run for Thursday.

The women will start the race in reverse order, with the top three – Goergl, France’s Taina Barioz and Kathrin Zettel of Austria to go at the end.

The weather conditions are set to improve a bit on Thursday afternoon, with a few brighter spells in between further snow showers. So, fingers crossed the race will go on …

• snow
• racing
• olympics

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