Nika Kriznar wins GP opener in Courchevel
Jul 29, 2023·Ski Jumping
Slovenia's Nika Kriznar won the opening event of the 2023 Grand Prix in Courchevel (FRA) on Saturday. Kriznar prevailed in a gripping competition ahead of Japan's Sara Takanashi. Kriznar and Takanashi already had a clear lead over third-placed Alexandria Loutitt from Canada.
Kriznar jumped 125 and 128 meters on the HS 132 meter hill in Courchevel, Takanashi even managed the day's best distance of 131 meters in the second round.
Kriznar stated after the competition:
"We trained a lot until today and I think my jump was really good, especially the first part of the flight. The landing was not so good and in the second pass I had some problems. Still, I went far and it was enough for first place.
About the strong final jump of Sara Takanashi: "I heard the crowd after Sara's jump. It was hard to stand up there and hear that she jumped really far. I needed my best jump and I did it. I think I was a little lucky that I didn't have that much wind. I am so happy that I made it".
On the yellow jersey: "It's not so much pressure. I know my performance last year was not so good, especially in the winter, but I think I can take the yellow BIB to the end."
Katharina Schmid (Althaus) finished fourth. Schmid was the best of four German athletes in the top 11. Selina Freitag (6th), Pauline Hessler (7th) and Juliane Seyfahrt (11th) ensured a strong result for the team of national coach Mechler.
Local hero Josephine Pagnier made it into the top 10 in 9th place.
After the first Grand Prix of the summer 2023, Nika Kriznar leads with 100 points ahead of Takanashi (80) and Loutitt (60).
The second women's competition of the 2023 Grand Prix will already take place tomorrow, also in Courchevel. The start is at 10:00.
