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November
21, 2002
News Specialist Shelley Osterloh reporting
It was a bit of dejavu at Park City ski resort today. The
world's best giant slalom skiers are back for America's Opening
world cup races, competing on the same hill as the world's
top racers did during the Olympics.
Janica
Kostelic of Croatia, the reigning Olympic gold medalist for
giant slalom and two other Alpine events, didn't have quite
the runs she had back in February. She finished 3rd.
Kirsten
Clark was the top U.S. racer, finishing 3rd. American Alpine
women racers did not medal in the Olympics. Kristina Kosznick
had the best finish in the Giant Slalom for the U.S. at the Games, at 17th.
She says she is more relaxed and confident than ever before.
"It's not the same nervousness, just excited, and I've
been itching for the season to start and it feels amazing
to go out of the start gate, that's why I'm here," Koznick
says. "The passion of the sport so I'm excited, it's
the most excited I've been for a season in a long time."
Despite disappointing results at the Olympics, the women's
U.S. Alpine team is very optimistic about this new season
and news changes.
"I'm excited it's a new year. I think you've got to approach
it with a new attitude, and you can't let the past drag you
down," says U.S. racer Caroline LaLive.
"We are just all about having fun. Matese is always positive
and always trying to get us to go as fast as we can and aggressive,
so it's been a good transition and I think our year is going
to start taking off here soon," says Sarah Schleper.
Even the team's most famous skier, Picabo Street, who is now
retired from competition, was there to cheer for her former
teammates.
"They really do, as I've always preached, have the potential
to be the best, the best in the world," Street says.
The women are back to compete for the slalom world cup on
Saturday.
America's Opening world cup at Park City continues tomorrow
and through the weekend.
Friday, the men compete in the giant slalom at 10:00 a.m.
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