Our best skier, Petra Vlhova, did not miss the opportunity to train on the slope in Jasna upon her return from Kranjska Gora, where she achieved her third slalom victory of the current season. "It's specific, and we wanted to try it before next week's races. Naturally, we want Petra to deliver the best performance possible on it," revealed Matej Gemza, assistant to her Swiss coach Maura Pini.
Vlhova undoubtedly enjoyed a few moments of relaxation at home in Liptovský Mikuláš. "Getting a good night's sleep in your own bed is the best regeneration," Gemza knows well.
Eight Years with Petra
Gemza has been with Vlhova for eight years now. He served as her assistant even when she was coached by Italian Livio Magoni. Although Vlhova knows the track in Jasna well, it is important to ski on it while the opportunity is available. "Memory needs to be refreshed. Besides, the snow is always different. Just add a new wave, for example, and it's not the same as before. It is also important to get used to the lighting conditions that will be on the track," he says.
Naturally, we will only learn about the weather conditions under Chopok next Saturday and Sunday on the day of the competitions. "We will have to accept that. We are prepared for everything," he says.
Unique Conditions
The track in Jasna genuinely suits Vlhova. "In length, in the home environment, and in the snow, which is specific in Jasna due to its consistency. Petra grew up here, knows it here, and the climatic conditions here are truly unique," Gemza continues.
Gemza is pleased that our best skier of recent years has the opportunity to compete during the season in her home environment. "It still has its charm; it's specific. I know that many people are preparing to cheer her on, create a great atmosphere, and help her deliver an even better performance than usual."
Gemza is also impressed by the national pride that Slovaks can collectively experience during the World Cup races under Chopok. "It's great that we also have a top competitor. If there are top conditions at home too, we can show the world that skiing is not only in Switzerland and Austria," he concludes.
Before Chopok, Flachau
Petra still has one race before Jasna. On Tuesday, January 16, the night slalom in Flachau. Only then will she return to Jasna for the eagerly anticipated races in Slovakia. "There is a lot of traveling, but we are used to it. Flachau is not two days away; we are home in a few hours," Gemza concludes.
