"Courage is important – but so is a healthy dose of respect."
For Stefanie Grob, this year's race weekend in St. Moritz is a very special moment: The 21-year-old from Appenzell will be competing in a World Cup race on Swiss snow for the first time – and right at the start of the speed disciplines season. In this interview, she talks about her skiing style, her feel for speed, and her excitement for her World Cup debut in front of a home crowd.
You're starting your first World Cup race on Swiss soil in St. Moritz. What does that mean to you?
It's really cool to finally be racing a World Cup in Switzerland. Everything automatically feels a bit more familiar; you know the ski area and the slope. I'm really looking forward to the home crowd.
It's also the speed season opener – does that make the premiere even more special for you?
The speed season opener is special for everyone because it's the first time we'll be competing directly against each other this season. I want to have fun and give it my all – regardless of where the first race takes place.
What images do you personally associate with St. Moritz and this course?
I remember a Swiss Championship where we had fantastic weather for a whole week. And we often race in European Cup events in St. Moritz at the beginning of the season. All good memories – that's why I'm really looking forward to coming back.
Before a home race, family and friends are often at the edge of the slope. Does that give you a boost or does it change something in your mind?** I know that I'll have fans there who are excited to be there live. That's a really nice feeling and definitely gives me a boost.