Dave Ryding just wrote skiing history as the first British athlete to win the Ski Alpine World Cup. Now, he aims for the next milestone – the Winter Olympic Games in China in February. As one of his main sponsors since 2017, Gurgl fully supports Dave Ryding on his upcoming adventures. 

Dave Ryding's slalom victory at the famous Hahnenkamm race in Kitzbühel, Tirol triggered frenetic cheers and a wave of euphoria. International athletes such as US ski ace Mikaela Shiffrin and public figures from his home country quickly joined the crowd of well-wishers. British Minister of Sport Nigel Huddleston praised the Englishman's “achievement”, while former ski jumper Michael “Eddie the Eagle” Edwards has high hopes for the upcoming Olympics. Thanks to Dave Ryding's triumph, the UK is now officially part of the list of World Cup winning nations.  Ryding's first World Cup win was also celebrated in Gurgl. The destination in the Ötztal valley has been supporting the British athlete as one of his main sponsors since 2017. “We are delighted about Dave's victory, which he more than deserved,” says Werner Hanselitsch, CEO of Obergurgl's cable car company.   

Dave Ryding is a regular in Gurgl

Like many Brits, the slalom ace greatly enjoys his stays in the upper Ötztal. “Dave comes here regularly for training and ski tests. He is also involved in campaigns on the British market,” explains Hanselitsch. Gurgl, also known as the “Diamond of the Alps” has held a special place in the Brits' hearts for a long time. British holidaymakers have been travelling to the Austrian destination for more than 100 years and the UK is still one of the most important markets in Gurgl. Dave Ryding is an important and highly appreciated testimonial of the ski resort. “Our guests are aware that we support their most successful ski athlete. At the same time, Dave is a role model for the next generation in his home country,” says Hanselitsch, adding: “He took his first turns on skis on plastic mats. For us Austrians, who are spoiled with snow, that would be unimaginable.”

It comes with little surprise, that the 35-year-old Brit will be the focus of the international press during his fourth appearance at the Olympic Winter Games. The slalom race in China is scheduled for 16 February. Everyone in Gurgl wishes Dave Ryding all the best and hopes there will be another reason to celebrate. This time maybe an Olympic medal.

Visit Dave Ryding's favourite resort

Curious about Dave Ryding's Austrian Winter Love? From 24 January, the country has removed its list of virus variant areas, meaning doubled-jabbed or recovered travellers from the UK can now enter Austria with a negative PCR test or proof of a booster jab. Please find the current entry rules here.

More information on Gurgl: www.gurgl.com

More information about Winter Love in Austria: Austria.info/winterlove

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Contact:
Gloria Schulte

Ötztal Tourism - PR & Media

gloria.schultes@oetztal.com