The racers, schedule, and how to watch the Women’s Lienz World Cup GS on December 28th
Lienz GEPA/Patrick Steiner
Tomorrow, the world’s fastest female skiers will converge in Lienz for the last 2023 women’s World Cup giant slalom (GS). The showdown unfolds on the challenging Schlossberg race venue, promising a thrilling spectacle. Commencing on the last weekend of December, Lienz, the capital of East Tirol, sets the stage for this highly anticipated event.
Get ready for an adrenaline-packed two-day showdown on the slopes of Lienz’s Schlossberg as the women skiers gear up for the final 2023 stop of the women’s World Cup tour. Switzerland’s Lara Gut-Behrami currently leads the GS discipline standings, holding a slim five-point advantage over Italian powerhouse Federica Brignone. However, the race for the top spots is far from settled, with Stifel US Ski Team’s superstar Mikaela Shiffrin sitting just 105 points behind Gut-Behrami and poised to make a dramatic points run.
Spectators are in for a treat at the Lienz Schlossberg venue, with optimal views from the finish line accessible from the base area or via a lift ticket that allows skiing to various points along the course. On December 28, 2023, the Ladies’ Giant Slalom will captivate audiences with awe-inspiring performances by world-class female alpine ski racers, generating an electric atmosphere of competition and excitement.
2023-24 Women’s World Cup Giant Slalom Top Five Standings
Every point counts in the alpine skiing world, and the stakes are high as the racers vie for victory. The point system adds an extra layer of excitement, with 100 points for a win, 80 for second place, and 60 for third. Shiffrin, a proven champion, is well aware of her capabilities to bridge the gap by securing victories. Hot on her heels is Slovakian rival Petra Vlhová, a mere nine points behind in fourth place, setting the stage for a thrilling battle between these seasoned competitors, who have faced off in over a decade of racing.
The anticipation is intensified by the absence of women’s World Cup racing in Lienz last season. The previous Lienz GS in December 2021 saw retired French skier Tessa Worley claiming victory, followed by Vlhová in second and Swedish sensation Sara Hector in third. Shiffrin, absent in that race, ended the season ranked second in the GS discipline, with Italy’s Marta Bassino taking home the coveted GS globe. As the countdown to the Lienz races begins, fans can expect fierce competition, unexpected twists, and a gripping battle for the top spot in the GS discipline.
As the races unfold, anticipation peaks, leading to a prize-giving ceremony at Lienz Main Square on December 28, 2023. The celebration crescendos into an extravagant World Cup Party, marking the conclusion of this prestigious event.
North Americans
In the North American alpine skiing scene, Valerie Grenier from Alpine Canada is making waves, currently holding the impressive 6th rank in GS for the season. She’s on the hunt for her first podium finish in the 2023-24 season, adding an extra layer of excitement to the competition. Alongside her, the young sensation Britt Richardson, also from Alpine Canada, has showcased world-class speed, securing the 24th rank for the season with a robust start.
Another force to be reckoned with from Alpine Canada is Cassidy Gray, who has kicked off the season with strength. With 14 GS points under her belt, she stands tall at the 34th position for the season. Also, her teammate Sarah Bennett is ready to score her first World Cup points.
Shifting gears to the Stifel US Ski Team, Paula Moltzan continues to deliver strong GS performances. Currently ranked 10th for the season, she’s prepared to clinch her first career GS podium.
USA’s AJ Hurt has made a remarkable return to form. With 42 points to her name, her season GS rank is 19th, adding further depth to the North American contenders. As these skilled athletes gear up for the Lienz races, the stage is set for a fierce showcase of talent and determination.
North American Women with 2023-24 World Cup GS points
There are seven North Americans entered in the December 28th Lienz World Cup GS
Bib 3, Mikaela Shiffrin, Stifel USST, Burke Mountain, Academy, Atomic, Oakley
Bib 7, Valerie Grenier, ACA, Club de Ski Mont Tremblant, Rossignol/LOOK, Level Gloves
Bib 12, Paula Moltzan, Stifel USST, University of Vermont, Ski and Snowboard Club, Vail, Rossignol/LOOK, Level Gloves, Oakley
Bib 30, AJ Hurt, Stifel USST, Team Palisades Tahoe, HEAD
Bib 31, Britt Richardson, ACA, Calgary Alpine Racing Club, Burke Mountain, Academy, Dynastar/Lange/Look, Oakley, Level Gloves
Bib 35, Cassidy Gray, ACA, Team Panorama, Atomic, Level Gloves
Bib 56, Sarah Bennett, ACA, Stoneham, Québec Ski Team, Rossignol/LOOK, Level Gloves
Sixty-four women representing 20 nations are on the Thursday, December 28th, Lienz World Cup GS start list.
The women’s first run starts at 4:00 a.m. Eastern Time and 1:00 a.m. on the West Coast. The second run will begin at 7:15 Eastern Time and 4:15 am on the West Coast.
In the USA, the women’s World Cups in Lienz will be available for viewing live and as a replay on Peacock streaming service.
In Canada, sports enthusiasts can watch the World Cup on CBC Sports
First run Start list and race program for Thursday, December 28th, Lienz World Cup women’s GS
Click on the start list and program to download