Val Gardena hero Mattia Casse: “I dedicate this to mom and dad”

Mattia Casse had competed in 170 World Cup races up to this Saturday. Most of the time he could be found in the results lists in those positions that had nothing to do with the top positions. Nevertheless, Casse always stuck with it and even at the age of 32 still believed in his big dream, i.e. to reach the podium one day. Now he has achieved this goal: in Val Gardena, of all places, the Piedmontese came third and celebrated his greatest career success.

>>> Read the race report here

“I never gave up,” says Casse with a certain pride after the race. “I thank everyone because I was also given the opportunity to keep going. I dedicate this podium place to my mom and dad. You have always stood by my side even in difficult times. I achieved that for you!” These are impressive words from Casse, whose best World Cup result to date was a fourth place in the Super-G in Beaver Creek – seven years ago, mind you. “I hope that the team will now get a boost.” Mattia Casse Casse achieved the best result of the Italian ski men this season on Saturday. “After the media criticism of our team, my third place is doubly important and I hope that the entire team will now get a boost,” says the Italian, who also adds: “I changed materials this year (from Head to Rossignol, Editor's note) and I feel really good about it. I've often had good split times this year, including on slopes that don't particularly suit me. Unfortunately, I kept making mistakes.”

Casse drove a very strong race. © ANSA / ANDREA SOLERO

Now the knot has burst. However, Casse keeps the ball low: “Now it’s important not to become overconfident and to look forward. There are still many great races waiting and the season is still long.”

Kilde is happy, Clarey is struggling Aleksander Aamodt Kilde was also very happy when he won the descent on the Saslong. “It’s no secret that the Saslong is one of my absolute favorite routes in the World Cup. The snow, the many jumps and the flow from start to finish are something very special. I had a lot of fun on the slopes today too.” The Norwegian mastered the passage through the Ciaslat meadows in particular brilliantly and thus took his fifth victory in Val Gardena.

In addition to Casse, the surprise was Johan Clarey. The Frenchman showed that he still has what it takes even at almost 42 years old. However, he had mixed feelings after the race as his first victory on the World Cup stage was within reach. “My skis were real weapons today, so it's even more annoying that I messed up the Ciaslat. However, I am very happy with the rest of the trip. Although the disappointment over missing out on victory is currently the prevailing factor, in a second moment the joy of second place will certainly outweigh it.”

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Val Gardena hero Mattia Casse: “I dedicate this to mom and dad”

The World Cup downhill in Val Gardena was a great spectacle this Saturday. An Italian became the surprise man - and could hardly contain his joy afterwards.

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