I definitely didn't imagine my last Olympic Games this way. Although I was slightly hindered by the torn ligament in my right knee, I went to Turin with high hopes. The only positive thing I can look back on at these Games is the opening ceremony. It was not only a big honor but also a once in a lifetime experience for me to carry the flag and lead our large delegation of athletes and officials into the stadium.
Empty Hands after the Downhill
The training sessions really gave me a good feeling for the downhill in San Sicario. Unfortunately, my dream for an Olympic medal was shattered. The fact that I missed the bronze medal by only seven hundredths of a second made the pain even worse, but you can't always get what you want.
Forgettable Super-G
After being so close in the downhill, I put all of my hopes in the Super-G. I have to admit that I didn't think my run was all that bad when I crossed the finish line. I didn't realize it until after I had seen my time, or rather how much time I had lost.
I'd like to congratulate all of my colleagues for having set a new medal record for the Austrians at these Olympic Games.
Gold Medal for You
From the bottom of my heart, I'd like to give you a gold medal. Your numerous encouraging, great entries in my guestbook have really helped me over the past several days. Thank you for being such loyal fans!
From Turin to the Hospital for an Arthroscopy
Last Saturday I went to Dr. Schenk's clinic to have my right knee examined once more. In addition to a torn ligament, he found cartilage damage and other “minor problems” in the knee that have to be fixed. So I didn't escape the need for an arthroscopy. Because I didn't want to lose any time, Dr. Schenk performed the procedure on Saturday evening.
The season is thus over for me, and I will diligently be doing therapy for the next six weeks so that I can be healthy again for the next season and give it my all in the World Cup.
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