Three in the Top 25 Under the Lights in Schladming

It’s not every season there is a nighttime giant slalom race, and the Stifel U.S. Alpine Ski Team men took control of the icy conditions, all placing in the top 25 in the Audi FIS Alpine Ski World Cup in Schladming.

Leading the U.S. men was River Radamus, ending the day in 21st place. Through a strong first run, Radamus skied smart throughout the race, especially at the top where he clocked his fastest splits. Independent athlete with Global Racing and representing the USA, Brian McLaughlin, placed 23rd for the day. In the second run he was knifing, until he had a sizeable mistake, but still ending in the green and moving up a few spots.

“I was really happy with the skiing today, I had a few big mistakes but still happy,” said McLaughlin. “I’m happy I feel like this is something to build off of and I will try to reel it in for next race.”

This giant slalom race was unique, as it was a night race. Historically night races are held for slalom, but to make up the canceled Garmisch giant slalom, a night race was added to the Schladming schedule.

“This is really cool I think they should do more of these, the crowd is really great, and the atmosphere is amazing,” said McLaughlin.

The top three finishers for the race included Swiss skier Loic Meillard in his first giant slalom victory, second place was teammate Gino Caviezel, and third place went to Austrian Marco Schwarz.  Stifel U.S. Alpine Ski Team athlete Isaiah Nelson also raced but did not qualify for a second run.

The Stifel U.S. Alpine Ski Team will now prepare for the next giant slalom World Cup which will be held on domestic soil at Palisades on Feb. 25th.

RESULTS
Men's giant slalom