Croatia’s female skiers have returned to Croatia after performing at the Winter Olympics in Beijing, but Croatia’s biggest trump card for the medal is still awaiting his first performance, reports HRT.
The giant slalom is scheduled for Sunday, and Filip Zubčić is among the main favorites for one of the medals.
“The snow is a little different because it is completely artificial. It’s nice to ski; I hope it will be icy during the race, that would be nice. We enjoy everything here,” said Filip Zubčić in a conversation with Croatian Radio reporter Krešimir Gotlin.
Does different snow mean different preparation, for example, lubricating the skis a certain way?
“When the snow is cold, it doesn’t play a big role. We have new skis, which they made for me for such aggressive snow and need to be tested to so we will dedicate ourselves to that. And try to feel good before the race. I’m fine right now and can’t wait.”
Did Filip have enough time to adjust to the time difference?
“I have no sleeping problems. I was tired from the trip the first night, so I slept for a long time. It didn’t seem that I was so tired, but I obviously was, as I slept for 11 hours,” laughs Filip, whose good mood is not spoiled even by strict epidemiological measures.
“That’s how it is; it’s the same for everyone. One minute for the test after breakfast won’t ruin my day.”
His competitive form is not timed just for the Olympics.
“My goal is to be in the best possible shape throughout the season. It would be stupid to concentrate on just one race. That is my philosophy.”
After the giant slalom (on Sunday, 03:45h / 06:45 am), Zubčić will also perform in the slalom in which he’s achieved excellent results this season, even better than in the giant slalom, which is his primary discipline.
“I feel great in both disciplines. Everyone knows that this season in the giant slalom, I have not yet made a result that would satisfy me, but I was close to the podium. Unfortunately, I failed; it would be nice to do it on Sunday.”
Along with Zubčić, Matej Vidović and Samuel Kolega will ski under the Croatian flag in Beijing. They added briefly:
“The snow is a little strange, this is my first time in Asia, but I am pleasantly surprised. The organization is fine and all in all – the feeling is good. Unfortunately, I haven’t had a chance to train in giant slalom; we will try and see how I will be in the race, but slalom is a priority, and we are definitely attacking it.”
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