"Has earned it"

Ski ace makes her debut in the concert of the greats

Viktoria Bürgler celebrates her World Cup debut on Saturday.(Bild: GEPA pictures)

Viktoria Bürgler celebrates her Alpine Ski World Cup debut in the giant slalom in Åre on Saturday.The nomination is the reward for her good results in recent months. 

Normally it's not always the best sign when the boss calls on Friday. Things are a little different in the women's ski camp. When Roland Assinger called Viktoria Bürgler last week, the Carinthian had good news to announce: The 20-year-old got a starting place for the World Cup giant slalom in Åre on Saturday! "I was speechless and couldn't believe it," the skier from SC Dienten looks back. 

It is the crowning glory of a season in which the Pinzgau native set herself the goal of competing in the World Cup. After good results at the Junior World Championships (two silver medals), the junior title in the "Giant" and other top placings, this dream is now coming true. But she is still finding it difficult to realize. "I don't think I'll be able to do it until I get there," laughs Bürgler, who starts her journey north via Zurich on Thursday.

Including the subsequent European Cup races in Norway, this will take around three weeks in total. Her dad Stefan, who was Marlies Raich's successful coach for many years, will also be joining her. 

"Has earned it " 
Speaking of stars: with Mikaela Shiffrin (still open), Lara Gut-Behrami and co. part of the elite of skiing will be there. "To be at the start with them is a privilege for me," says Bürgler, who has nothing to lose at the premiere and wants to get to know the feeling first. 

Head coach Roland Assinger nominated the Pinzgau native for the World Cup "giant" in Are.(Bild: GEPA pictures)

Competing with the best is also a priority for head coach Assinger. "Viktoria has earned the start thanks to her results this year. It should serve as a boost for the future," emphasizes the 50-year-old.