Inside Milan Cortina’s Men’s Super-G: A Somber Olympic Start Hut Scene
The 2026 Winter Olympics in Bormio, Italy, has created a unique atmosphere for alpine skiers preparing for their races. Tucked away at the mountain’s peak, approximately 2,000 meters high, lies the start hut— a small wooden cabin that symbolizes both solitude and anticipation.
The Start Hut: A Place of Calm and Tension
The start hut serves as a protective space for athletes as they prepare to face the daunting slopes ahead. For some skiers, it represents a moment of peace before the intense competition. However, others like Team USA’s Kyle Negomir describe it as akin to a funeral, encapsulating the weight of the moment.
The emotional toll is significant—as skiers engage with the countdown timer, which begins with 30 seconds to go. American skier Sam Morse mentioned how the sound of the beeping timer could ignite anxiety even during off-seasons.
Warm-Up Rituals and Mental Preparation
- Skiers ascend the mountain via chairlift.
- Many warm up through free skiing, while others may practice runs.
In preparation, athletes adopt various warm-up techniques. For instance, French skier Maxence Muzaton activates his core with a side plank in the snow, while Swiss competitor Alexis Monney uses physical affirmations to boost his confidence. Silver medalist Giovanni Franzoni noted the buildup of tension in his legs during warmup, highlighting the physical and mental demands of the race.
Understanding the Mental Game
As the race nears, heart rates naturally spike, and physical responses intensify. Breathwork coach Hannah Nedas emphasizes the importance of calming techniques. Athletes are encouraged to focus on physical sensations to relax their nervous systems.
Visualizing mental imagery can also help ground athletes. For example, skiers may visualize objects like a floating tennis ball, allowing their focus to stabilize before they take off. Negomir explained that this technique prepares him for the fierce competition to come.
The Burden of Competition
Franzoni, on his Olympic debut, faced the reality of competitive pressure. He expressed appreciation for the opportunity to race alongside the world’s best, reflecting a common sentiment among athletes. Yet, the mental burden often weighs heavily, as Negomir candidly shared the fear of risking personal safety while competing.
The Final Countdown
As the training session advances, the presence of personal trainers is paramount. Morse detailed how his trainer’s voice becomes a comforting guide amidst the chaos. The timer acts as a universal signal, building tension and excitement before athletes launch down the slopes.
The start is a crucial moment; skiers aim for an explosive launch, akin to sprinters out of the blocks. In the final seconds, Morse prepares to push through the electronic wand that starts his run.
Conclusion: The Thrill of the Race
The desolate start hut, filled with anticipation and focus, symbolizes the culmination of months of preparation. As skiers prepare to ski the challenging courses, they must confront their fears and harness their adrenaline, proving that the race is not only a test of skill but also a profound psychological journey.
