Runners will be launching themselves down near-vertical gradients in a race on one of the world’s most notorious ski slopes. Returning for a second year, the inov-8 Descent Race on the Hahnenkamm mountain in Kitzbuhel, Austria, is being staged on Saturday October 5.
Revered amongst downhill skiers on the world cup circuit, the Hahnenkamm, which steepens to a gradient of 80%, will provide runners with a great opportunity to test their bravery.
Michael Price, of inov-8, said: “It’s got to be one of the most innovative and, although relatively short in distance, toughest sporting events in the world.
“Last year saw hundreds of spectators line the legendary slope and watch as runners got to grips with the demanding 350m long slalom-style course. This year we’re expecting even bigger crowds and even faster speeds.”
The Downhill Race
Starting from the iconic ski gate at the top of the mountain, runners will propel themselves down the slope at 30-second intervals. Between them and the finish line below will be a series of ski flags that they must weave round.
Each runner will get two attempts at the course, with their times added together to decide the final results. The male and female winner will each receive €300.
Last year’s winners were Daniel Hauser and Lisa Kroll, who also hold the course records at 54:65secs and 1min 22:18secs respectively.
For more details, or to enter the 2019 inov-8 Descent Race, visit: www.inov-8.com/descent