Ritchie Scores a Top 30 in Adelboden

Stifel U.S. Alpine Team athlete Ben Ritchie secured a 26th place in the Audi FIS Alpine Ski World Cup slalom in Adelboden on Sunday. Ritchie started 42nd and was able to squeeze his way into a second run, a feat considering the deterioration of the course at his bib number.

“It’s a little bittersweet, first run was really tough with the conditions, it was warm and big ruts so I was happy to get a second run,” said Ritchie. “I was happy with my skiing second run just a dumb mistake towards the end, but still happy to get some points.”

Former U.S. Ski Team member and now Greek athlete, AJ Ginnis, had a solid day landing in 20th place, moving up from bib 48. The day’s winners included a one-two podium by the young Norwegians Lucas Braathen in first, and Atle Lie McGrath in second. Germany’s Linus Strasser took third place.

The Swiss crowds again showed up by the thousands to pack the finish stadium and cheer on their favorite racers. The weather did not bring much sunshine, but instead a bit of rain. Regardless the atmosphere was indescribable.

Stifel U.S. Alpine Ski Team athletes Luke Winters and Jett Seymour also raced, Winters did not finish first run and Seymour landed in 56th first run after hiking.  

“I think the whole U.S. slalom team is skiing really great," said Ritchie. "A little bit of bad luck this season but we had one good result by Luke and there are more coming."

The slalom team will have another chance at slalom in Wengen, Switzerland on Jan. 15th.

RESULTS
Men's slalom