Traditionally, the masters of the air have the last word in the World Cup winter. From Friday to Sunday the decision about the crystal globes will be made on the ski flying hill in Planica in two individual competitions and one team competition. After 26 of the 28 individual competitions, the Japanese Ryoyu Kobayashi has a credit of 66 points over his pursuer Karl Geiger (D), in the Nations Cup Austria is in top form thanks to Stefan Kraft at the end of the season with a lead of 178 points over Germany pole position.
“At the moment it’s a lot of fun,” emphasized the man from Salzburg, who celebrated his 25th World Cup success while flying in Oberstdorf on Saturday. This means that Kraft is now, ex aequo with Andreas Felder, the second best red-white-red “Adler” in the all-time list of the best. Gregor Schlierenzauer seems to be untouchable with 53 triumphs.
“I can’t catch up on that, I’m too old for that. Nevertheless, I’ll spend a round, it’s an anniversary after all,” said the 28-year-old with a smile.
Kraft followed up with the next top result yesterday: The world record holder took third place behind Timi Zajc (Slo) and Piotr Zyla (Pol). This guarantees a heart-stopping finale for the small crystal ball for the Ski Flying World Cup. Kraft and Zajc travel to Planica with 160 points each.
“I’m super happy with this weekend, there were very good, stable flights. Now we’re really looking forward to Planica, it will be a perfect finish with spectators,” emphasized Kraft, who will mobilize all his reserves again after his ninth podium place of the season.
This also applies to Michael Hayböck (UVB HInzenbach). The Theninger was eleventh on Saturday as the second best Austrian, yesterday the 30-year-old was 16th behind Daniel Huber (14th), who fell the day before. Head coach Andreas Widholzl is confident that his boys will bring the Nations Cup home. (Alex)
Source: Nachrichten
