Wind Calls Saslong Classic Downhill

VAL GARDENA, Italy (Dec. 17) - Gusty winds forced the Audi FIS Alpine World Cup jury to cancel the 50th running of the famed Saslong Classic men's downhill in Val Gardena Saturday. A brief course hold was put in place after the 17th starter followed by an extended 36 minute hold as winds swirled around the 2.2 mile course. Three more racers were allowed to start before the race was officially canceled following bib 21 with Audi Birds of Prey downhill winner Bode Miller (Franconia, NH) in the gate.

The men's World Cup tour now travels over the Gardena pass to nearby Alta Badia for a giant slalom race on Sunday followed by a slalom Monday featuring defending champion Ted Ligety (Park City, UT). For more information on Alta Badia, go to http://www.skiworldcup.it/.

Universal Sports will carry TV coverage from Alta Badia Sunday at 2 p.m. ET.