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Season Review Alpine Skiing with Günter Hujara
Q. Looking back, how was the men's 2010/2011 season?
Günter Hujara: Estimated 500'000 on-site spectators enjoyed the men's Audi FIS Ski World Cup events during the 2010/11 season - most likely a record. To me this means that the efforts by FIS, National Ski Associations and especially the Local Organizers are successful. Attractive races together with various side events appeal to more and more people who seek unique experiences.
Our TV ratings in the most important markets, such as Germany, also increased this season. We still have nations where live TV transmission or even adequate TV presentation of Alpine Skiing is not guaranteed, but are making progress there, too.
Even very challenging weather conditions, mostly very warm temperatures, did not lead to cancellations or major delays on the men's tour. Key to this was the know-how of people in charge of course preparation and course maintenance.
Q: What was the season highlight for you?
Günter Hujara: The FIS Alpine World Ski Championships in Garmisch-Partenkirchen was truly a top event. Only the best of the best could succeed on the very challenging courses. The local sports organization proved well prepared to solve problems under difficult circumstances. While spectators were enjoying the warm weather, the course workers were exhausted in trying to maintain solid race courses.
The City Event in Munich was also a tremendous success. More than 30'000 spectators and very significant TV audience reflect the interest in such events.
On the men's side, racer performances reached levels we have never seen before. Outstanding runs by many athletes showcased the broad base of competition. Different winners, newcomers and established stars together, made this year's tour very exciting. At the end, the most consistent and experienced protagonists of our sport won the globes.
Q. Looking into the future, what are the key parameters and focus areas?
Günter Hujara: The men's calendar has followed a classic schedule for about 10 years now, which enables long-term planning by Organizers and other stakeholders. Having packages of events in the same country not only solves the issue of travel, but also creates a ‘Grand Prix' character in the different regions. The December Italian events are followed by the Swiss tour in Adelboden and Wengen at the beginning of January. Kitzbühel and Schladming in Austria then serve to boost the interest in the most important period of the season.
The classic single events are also well placed and accepted with their dates. In my opinion, it is one of the most important details in marketing of the FIS Alpine Word Cup that the structure of the calendar is predictable and stable for four years ahead.
Overall, the Alpine World Cup is a successful product with a successful story. However, I do not mean that we should not continue our efforts to find solutions which will help improve safety for our athletes. There are still too many injuries in our sport and it is our main goal to develop things in the right direction. Working together with different scientists from all over the world, we are hoping to define the right measures to decrease the risk of avoidable injuries.