Home World Cup

From a thousand meters into the depths

The athletes plunge into the depths with a smile.(Bild: HSV Red Bull Salzburg)

The parachute ski athletes of HSV Red Bull Salzburg are approaching their home World Cup in St. Johann. The local hero watches his house while flying. In sporting terms, Sebastian Graser and Sophie Grill are the big favorites.

With a smile on their faces at a thousand meters above the ground, the HSV Red Bull Salzburg parachute jumpers plunge out of the helicopter. In winter, when the weather is good, the athletes can see a mountain panorama at its best. The hosts are also hoping for this from Friday to Sunday, when the World Cup in parachute skiing (parachute target jumping and alpine giant slalom in two runs) takes place in St. Johann Alpendorf. Sebastian Graser and Sophie Grill are the big favorites in the home competition. The 26-year-old set a new world record last year and would like to defend his title this year.

However, Grill still has a score to settle, having had to retire in 2023 due to pain after injuring her ankle. "After having to sit out last year, I feel even more motivated this year. I also feel well prepared," says the 24-year-old happily.

Organization is perfectly coordinated
It will be a special home World Cup for Anton Gruber. The local hero lives right next to the ski slope: "I enjoy every jump and always look where I live. That's a privilege." The St. Johanner started out in the Netherlands in 2005. "It was an extra thrill because the whole course was in Dutch," laughs the ski school owner. Despite his experience, he is a little nervous at home.

The organizers around Tobias Hufler are no longer nervous after eight World Cup events and one World Championships. "We are a well-rehearsed team, the only unknown is the weather," says the organizer, hoping for sunshine and little wind. Because, as with ski jumping, the event has to be interrupted once it reaches a certain level. This year, more than 50 skydivers from six nations are expected in St. Johann.