Ski Jumping Showdown: Unraveling the Four Hills Tournament
Prepare for four thrilling ski jumping competitions, as we approach the start of this year's Four Hills Tournament. Starting from December 29, the excitement builds in Germany, with Oberstdorf kicking off the tournament.
In a nation divided between two countries, one golden eagle will be victorious in this fierce battle for prestige and an eye-popping payday. The world's best ski jumpers compete in the ultimate test of speed and agility at four distinct venues: Oberstdorf, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Innsbruck, and Bischofshofen. As we celebrate the 72nd edition of the ski jumping extravaganza, the following answers provide a comprehensive overview.
Who'll snatch the top prize?
Austria provides our top favorite: Stefan Kraft, who has mastered the art of securing tour victories. Kraft, 30, already boasts a Tour Champion title under his belt from 2014/15, and has yet to show signs of slowing down this season. Kraft claimed first place in five out of eight competitions, as well as the win in the rehearsal round in Engelberg, Switzerland.
Close on Kraft's heels, the German trio of Andreas Wellinger, Karl Geiger, and senior team member Pius Paschke gains traction in the rankings. The versatile Wellinger touts consistent performances, having secured podium finishes on four occasions, with only one blemish; an out-of-top-five finish.
To earn first place, Geiger and Paschke, both with individual wins under their belts, require Wellinger to level up his victory tally. Geiger expertly conquered both victories in Klingenthal's German home events, while the 33-year-old Paschke sensationally claimed the penultimate victory prior to the tour commencement.
Japanese champ Ryoyu Kobayashi and Norwegian ace Halvor Egner Granerud, Tour champions in the past two seasons, bring their considerable experience to the field, although they currently haven't displayed their usual form. Nevertheless, Kobayashi should not be underestimated, given his tour victories, and history of exceptional performances.
What's the reward for winning?
In addition to snatching the coveted golden eagle and gaining international acclaim, the overall tournament champion will be rewarded with a boisterous financial boon. Namely, 100,000 Swiss francs (approximately 105,000 euros) from the Swiss federal government. The FIS World Ski Federation also pays out World Cup prize money to participants in stages for finishing within the top 30 athletes. Winning the qualifying round in Oberstdorf stamps your ticket to a further 3,000 Swiss francs reward (around 3,160 euros).
The battle of the gals
Organizers make steady strides toward establishing a Four Hills Tournament for female ski jumpers. Whilst the towns of Garmisch-Partenkirchen (December 30) and Oberstdorf (January 1) will host the inaugural so-called "Two Nights Tour" World Cup events, organizational challenges must be surmounted for an all-female tour across all four venues.
"We merely need minor adjustments to create a complete tour," says the 2019 women's World Champion, Selina Freitag. Current Olympic champion Andreas Wellinger declares, "They should definitely have the opportunity to compete in a Four Hills Tournament. They're in the process of developing and competing quite impressively."
How to watch it there, live or stream
ARD and ZDF share the broadcast coverage throughout the tournament, with ARD showcasing qualifications and competitions in Oberstdorf and Bischofshofen, while ZDF will be present in Garmisch-Partenkirchen and Innsbruck. Eurosport offers comprehensive viewing options for all Four Hills Tournament events. The inaugural "Two Nights Tour" for female ski jumpers can also be enjoyed in full on Eurosport, with ARD providing coverage of the first women's jumping competition.
Fascinating Fact:
Did you know that the Four Hills Tournament is actually named "The Battle for the Eagle"? The origin of the name can be traced back to the traditional German customs and folklore, in which an eagle symbolizes eternal life and undying strength.
Enrichment Data:
- This text is drawn from the prestigious Stern magazine in Germany, teeming with intriguing insights and intricacies of the Four Hills Tournament.
- Numerous articles have been crafted, ranging from recaps of phenomenal victories in the NFL to nurturing an enthusiastic regard for renowned pop diva, Taylor Swift.
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