Hörl and Co. Shine - Dream Start for ÖSV Team: 'We Are Very Far Ahead'

Hörl and Co. Shine - Dream Start for ÖSV Team: 'We Are Very Far Ahead'

The lead-up to the World Cup always carries uncertainty. However, after this outstanding opening weekend in Lillehammer, it is clear that Austria’s male ski jumpers have maintained the momentum from their successful previous season. They placed second to fifth on Saturday and secured first, third, and fourth on Sunday, along with a third place in the mixed event. The ÖSV team has indeed made a perfect start to the World Championship season.

"It was an extremely good weekend for us. We are very compact as a team and are very far ahead," said ÖSV men's head coach Andreas Widhölzl. "Kudos to the guys; they did a really good job. We are naturally pleased to have achieved such a great start." Despite the impressive results, the coach sees opportunities for further improvement.

Widhölzl identified that many athletes still have potential for growth. "Krafti is slowly coming back. He is not quite where he wants to be yet," said the 48-year-old former world-class jumper, reflecting on Daniel Huber, who is sidelined due to a knee injury. "It’s a pity he is injured. He was on track with the others. It hurts, but hats off to Max Ortner, who delivered and remained cool under pressure. We have many good jumpers."

Many in the team reportedly believe that not a single jump was perfect, despite achieving podium finishes of 3rd, 2nd, and 3rd respectively. "Of course, you want to stand at the very top, but with such results, we shouldn’t complain," reflected the always self-critical Daniel Tschofenig. "We are heading in the right direction. Let’s see what comes in Ruka."

The team is remaining in Lillehammer for several training days before traveling to Ruka next Wednesday.

Jan Hörl has also improved his visibility in the spotlight. His previous victories in Wisla (2021), Innsbruck, and Lahti now include his first in Norway. After finishing fifth on Saturday behind three teammates, he turned the tables 24 hours later. "I stayed patient and focused. I’m really happy to be able to stand at the very top right at the start of the season," he stated. This boosts his anticipation for the upcoming competition in Ruka, where he aims to continue his successful run.

In summary, the ÖSV team has made a great start to the season with promising performances that set a high standard as they move forward.