After a campaign marked by ups and downs last year, Valérie Grenier feels ready with 48 hours to go before the start of the giant slalom World Cup season.
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In anticipation of the Solden World Cup to be played on Saturday in Austria, Grenier assures that she is fully recovered from her knee injury which made her fear to miss the Beijing Olympics.
“I am in good health,” she said when we reached her on Tuesday in Italy. I don’t have any physical issues and I’m in top shape. »
In form, Grenier has big aspirations. “My goal is still to achieve a podium, indicated the one who obtained three top 10 finishes last year, including a 4th place. I want to be consistent and I’m aiming for a place in the top 7 in the cumulative ranking. I want to get closer to the best. »
Back to super-G
With her health issues behind her, Grenier has another good reason to show off her best smile. “I will make my return to super-G, she confirmed. I did all the super-G workouts this summer at our camp in Chile. Due to my absence, I’m not sure what to expect, but I believe I can do well. I will take my place quietly. »
After a terrible fall in February 2019 in Are, Sweden during a world championship training run, the Mont-Tremblant affiliated skier had tried a comeback last year, but the experience did not have been conclusive.
“It didn’t go well and I left the track halfway because I had fears, she recalled. I had very good training and I never felt this feeling. It makes a big difference to be able to concentrate on my skiing without fear of injury.
“I’m having fun and I’m confident to pursue Grenier. It feels good to have these feelings. Last year, I had no fun in super-G. »
nothing lost
Grenier assures that she has not lost anything despite her long absence. “I’m in the same place as before,” she said. Before my injury, the super-G was my discipline. I love the super-G.
“By focusing on the giant slalom, it helped my super-G,” added the two-time Olympian. I have good technique and I can concentrate on my speed. Everything is going well and I am in good shape. There’s no reason not to aim high. »