Vonn Strikes Again in St. Moritz, Takes Second Place
On Saturday's downhill in St. Moritz, Switzerland Stifel U.S. Ski Team athlete Lindsey Vonn captured the magic once again with a second-place finish on the second downhill race. Teammate Breezy Johnson was close behind in fourth place and Bella Wright in 13th.
“I think I skied pretty well. I was a little bit out of balance today,” said Vonn. “I'm pretty happy.”
It was another picture perfect day on the slope with full blue skies and sun shining. The crowd was brought to their feet to watch one of the best downhill skiers of all time rise to the occasion again after her incredible win the day prior. But first she would have to beat the heater run that Italian Sofia Goggia put down before her.
Vonn was on the limit and looking for speed. Turn after turn she found the green but had a few wobbles that would cost her the win. Vonn came down in first but then was overtaken by German youngster Emma Aicher. Her result proved that her win in the first downhill in St. Moritz wasn't a fluke, and she'll be charging for a podium in every speed event throughout the season.
“Hopefully tonight I can get a little bit recharged and ski better tomorrow,” said Vonn. “I was a little bit more hesitant.”
Breezy Johnson also had a strong day in fourth place. Johnson, the downhill world champion, knew what she needed to do in order to be close to the top skiers and she performed. Johnson pushed her speed and ended up just shy of the podium. It was also an exciting day for Bella Wright who ended up in 13th - her best performance in two years. It was also Johnson's 100th World Cup start.
“I feel good. I've been struggling a lot the last few days, and to get out of the start today and yesterday was a pretty big victory for me,” said Johnson. “I love the World Cup. I love racing. It's a gorgeous day. So it was a great day to hit 100 and keep going from here.”
Finally, the depth of the team still held strong with six girls in the top 30. Jackie Wiles was 20th, Keely Cashman 21st, and Allison Mollin 22nd. Tricia Mangan and Haley Cutler were 32nd and 36th. Mollin also secured her second Stifel Bibbo Award in two days, attacking from bib 48.
The weekend isn't over yet; the women continue with a super-G on Sunday.
RESULTS
Women's downhill
