Scary moments in Ruka

“Skis never there”: Big scare for Lamparter

Johannes Lamparter!(Bild: GEPA pictures)

A big scare for Johannes Lamparter: Austria's top combined skier had to survive a very turbulent flight phase at the competition in Ruka on Saturday. Fortunately, the 23-year-old was just able to avoid a fall.

That took the breath away from the home fans! After the take-off, Lamparter suddenly had huge problems in the air. The strong jumper only landed at 106.5 meters, meaning the competition was already over before the cross-country race.

"It wasn't much fun today", said Lamparter, who "maybe it was his own fault, he was too aggressive" with his jump in difficult conditions. He wasn't afraid, as he explained in the ORF interview: "Fortunately, you react correctly subconsciously. I realized that my ski was no longer there and I just wanted to land on both feet. Check it off and maybe put in another good cross-country race."

Fifth place at the start
Lamparter got off to a solid start on Friday with fifth place. This was despite the fact that he had been struggling with inflammation in his knee during preparation and had therefore come to Ruka with some catching up to do.

Thomas Rettenegger strong
Things went better on Saturday for Thomas Rettenegger, who is the best ÖSV athlete in second place at the halfway point. Rettenegger is 47 seconds behind the German Johannes Rydzek going into the race. Norway's superstar Jarl Magnus Riiber is fourth after the jumping.