Lindsey Vonn, the renowned alpine skier, is gearing up for her Olympic participation despite facing a significant knee injury. She completed her initial downhill training run in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, demonstrating impressive determination and technique. Her coach noted her "symmetrical" performance, indicating she wasn't favoring her injured left knee, which has a torn ACL, bone bruising, and meniscus damage. Vonn's commitment to competing is evident as she prepares for her second training run, a crucial step before the Olympic downhill event begins on February 8.
The second downhill training session for the women's alpine skiing event is set to commence on Saturday, February 7, at 5:30 a.m. ET in Cortina d'Ampezzo. Vonn confirmed her participation via an Instagram post, expressing her positive outlook after a solid initial run. Her decision to undertake the second training run is a testament to her resolve, especially given that she had already met the minimum requirement of one training run.
The roster for the final women's downhill training features a strong contingent of American skiers. Breezy Johnson will start with bib No. 7, followed by Jackie Wiles at No. 16, just after Vonn, who will wear bib No. 15. Isabella Wright and Keely Cashman are listed at 25 and 26, respectively, with Mary Bocock completing the U.S. team at No. 41. The session promises to be a comprehensive showcase of talent and preparation.
In other news, a World Cup downhill race, previously canceled due to multiple crashes, including Vonn's, has been rescheduled. This event, which saw three out of the first six skiers crash, will now take place on March 6 in Val di Fassa, Italy. The revised schedule will include two downhill races and a Super-G, serving as the final speed races before the World Cup finals.
The upcoming Olympic women's downhill event is highly anticipated, with all eyes on Lindsey Vonn as she navigates the challenges of her injury. Her resilience and focus continue to inspire, and her performance in these final training sessions will be critical in assessing her readiness for the competitive arena.