Dave Ryding claims superb podium in Kitzbuhel World Cup slalom as Daniel Yule storms to victory

Dave Ryding’s bid to defend his Kitzbuhel title ended in a near-miss, as he finished second behind winner Daniel Yule.

Ryding claimed a landmark win in the famous Austrian slalom race 12 months ago, but left himself with too much to do after a poor opening run.

The Brit was ragged on the top section, spending too much time on his heels, and his time of 53.74 left him down in 16th after the first run.

Ryding was, however, much improved in his second run and celebrated like he had won the race – exclaiming “that’s more like it” after stopping the clock at 51.29 – the fastest of any second run – for an overall time of 1:45.03 and first place.

The Brit knew conditions would only get more difficult, as the ruts opened up, and he saw off a host of challengers – including the season’s leading slalom racer, Henrik Kristoffersen.

But Ryding’s hopes of victory were dashed when Yule found the ideal racing line to take the lead in a time of 1:44.63.

Still, it was Ryding’s finest effort of the season and was good enough for a place on the podium in second place.

“I have been searching for a run like that all year,” Ryding said. “I was close to stopping believing but proved to myself to never stop believing.

“I had a good feeling straight away from the skis. I just went for it.

“I am getting better with age maybe, and Kitzbuhel you need some experience.”

It was a nervous wait for Yule, but the Swiss was able to celebrate victory in Kitzbuhel for the second time in his career when leader from the first run, Manuel Feller, left the home crowd – including Arnold Schwarzenegger – in stunned silence when he straddled towards the top of his run.

“It is amazing,” Yule said. “In the season there is always one race everyone looks forward to and it is Kitzbuhel. To win again is unbelievable.

“They all feel amazing but this one is extra special as the past few seasons have been tough, the past few races have not been easy either, so to come back on this hill and win again after some tough times is unbelievable.”

Lucas Braathen secured third place and the points took him to the top of the season standings in slalom, dropping Kristoffersen into second.

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