ÖSV Podium! Michael Hayböck finishes third in Oberstdorf

ÖSV Podium! Michael Hayböck finishes third in Oberstdorf

Michael Hayböck achieved a commendable third-place finish in the second Ski Flying World Cup competition held in Oberstdorf. Initially placed second after the first round, the Oberösterreicher ultimately finished behind Norway's Johann Andre Forfang, who performed strongly, and Slovenia's Domen Prevc, who secured the victory. Jan Hörl was the next best Austrian at fifth, while Daniel Tschofenig placed sixth. Notably, Stefan Kraft, who was disqualified the previous day, managed to take tenth place.

This marks Hayböck's third podium finish of the season. The 33-year-old showed impressive skill in the event, which was characterized by rapidly changing wind conditions that led to interruptions. Hayböck expressed satisfaction with his performance, stating it felt good to land a successful jump. During the competition on the Klopfer flying hill, Hayböck flew 229.5 meters, while Prevc, who led from the halfway point, achieved 231.5 meters for his victory.

Hörl, who moved up significantly from eleventh to podium range, reflected positively on his performance, describing his sixth-place finish as somewhat unsatisfactory compared to their goals but acknowledged the severe competition they faced.

Hayböck, reminiscing about his last podium finish in Vikersund eight years ago, noted the considerable progress he has made this season, particularly since his third-place finish in Titisee-Neustadt. With consistent top-ten results in recent competitions, he remains hopeful as he focuses on upcoming events, including competitions in Willingen and subsequently World Cups in Lake Placid and Sapporo before the World Championships in Trondheim in late February.

Upcoming Competitions
Hayböck's next challenge awaits in Willingen, followed by the critical World Cup events in Lake Placid, USA, and Sapporo, Japan, leading up to the World Championships in Trondheim.