They are part of the Ski-World Cup in Val Gardena/Gröden like the Camel Humps and the Ciaslat meadow, they have their own place on a dedicated grand stands and cannot be missed in 2018: the fan clubs! "It will be another great festival with fan clubs from South Tyrol and from all over Europe" promises fan club coordinator Genni Tschurtschenthaler.

Genni has been in charge of this initiative since its started in 2007: "I have formed a close relationship with many fans. Some also visit me in the summer". Most fan clubs are there every year to cheer on their idol. "Val Gardena/Gröden is a fixed date" explains Heimo Mayer, brother of the Austrian racer Matthias. "The 50 seats on the bus to Val Gardena/Gröden are quickly booked up."

This also applies to the fans of Otmar Striedinger. "Every year, we go to the classic downhill runs and Val Gardena/Gröden is always the one that fills up the fastest", says Conny, sister of the downhill skier. "The atmosphere in Val Gardena/Gröden is a highlight! The organization for South Tyrolean athletes is not quite that easy. Dagmar Gruber, cousin of Dominik Paris: "Sometimes it is difficult to motivate people. Many are spontaneous or drive separately. But the support will be huge again", says the head of the 'Heilousn' with confidence.

Christof Innerhofer's fans want to repeat last year's victory at the festival: mascot of the group from Gais is of course again a “Goas" … a goat. "Thanks to our great support Christof achieved his best Val Gardena/Gröden result last year" says Günther Niederkofler from the fanclub with pride. The racer from Pustertal finished fifth. Speaking of racing results: we asked the fan clubs what they expected from their protégé in the event of a victory:

"In the event of a victory, Oti has to go down the Saslong on wooden skis in squirrel costume (without head)."

"In the event of a victory, underwear model Christof must race over the Saslong in his underpants!

"In case of victory, Domme must sing in the finish area!"

Further information and contact for registration at www.saslong.org

The list of honor: