The excitement of the FIS World Cup Super G event in Bormio on December 29, 2024, was marked by both fear and jubilation as tragedy struck early but was followed by the crowning of new champions.
The day began ominously with the serious accident of Swiss skier Gino Caviezel, who was the first to start the race. Caviezel fell violently against the wall of St. Peter, leading to immediate medical concerns and race delays. He was airlifted to the hospital after suffering severe injuries to his leg, leaving the spectators and fellow competitors worried. This incident paralleled the earlier accident of French skier Cyprien Sarrazin, who faced his own ordeal during downhill trials, prompting medical updates throughout the day.
Despite the anxiety surrounding these injuries, the competition resumed. Fredrik Moeller, just 24 and representing Norway, capitalized on the situation to deliver the performance of his career, winning his first World Cup event with timing of 1:29.22. Moeller’s victory was characterized as ‘very mature’, as he expertly navigated the challenging Bormio course. He noted afterward, “It feels really good. My skiing was obviously good... but they weren't...that costly,” acknowledging the technical mistakes he made but emphasizing his overall strong performance.
Moeller managed to beat veteran skier Vincent Kriechmayr of Austria by a narrow 0.2 seconds, marking the difference between the two skiers on the podium. Kriechmayr, who finished second, shared his thoughts on the younger generation of skiers, reflecting on the competition's increasing intensity. “A podium is always nice... the young Norwegian was pretty good so congratulations to him,” he said, underscoring the respect among competitors and the notable shift the sport is undergoing.
Competing against established names, Moeller’s podium finish highlights the emergence of new talent as he outperformed seasoned skiers like Kriechmayr and even managed to maintain his lead over the Swiss contingent, who took several slots within the top six. Swiss skier Alexis Monney sealed third place, adding to his success from the previous day’s downhill win, noting, “It was a big step... It’s nice.”
The presence of younger athletes, including both Moeller and Monney, showcases the vibrancy and depth of competition now present. Kriechmayr observed, “You have to be one hundred percent from top to bottom, and if you're not searching for the limit you're not able to beat them.” This sentiment echoed through the competition, particularly as these two younger athletes showed up on race day ready to challenge established competitors, with Moeller mentioning, “I'll try to do [hold them behind me] the whole season.”
Even as the mood lifted following the competition, the impact of Caviezel’s injury loomed large, reminding everyone of the high risks inherent to the sport. Skiers typically face extreme physical challenges and conditions, especially on courses like Bormio’s Stelvio. Following the crashes, some competitors noted they approached the course with more caution, contemplating the risks as they skied.
Attention turned back to Moeller’s triumphant win—the highlight of the day—set against the backdrop of caution surrounding ski safety. He and Kriechmayr’s exchanges reflect sportsmanship and respect as they prepare for future races. “They ski so well,” said Moeller, pointing to his fellow competitors, acknowledging their efforts and victories both past and future.
The narrative of the day moved from fear to triumph within hours. The emotional weight of Caviezel’s accident was counterbalanced by the emergence of new champions, with Moeller taking the victory lap and solidifying his place in the sport’s current reconfiguration.
The masculine dominance of skiing continues to change, with fresh talent demonstrating skill and capability. The remarkable results of the competitors at Bormio signal hope and excitement for the future of alpine skiing as they each navigate the complexity of the sport.
The 2024 Super G demonstrates how courage, determination, and skill meld on the slopes, especially amid the harsh realities of accidents and injuries. The mountain serves not just as the background for competition but as a challenging arena where the consequences can be stark but the rewards—like Moeller’s victory—can be monumental and momentous.