This past weekend Courchevel opened its doors - or rather its slopes - to some of the world's top ski athletes for the FIS Women's World Cup. This weekend 29 female racers took on the giant slalom course on the Stade piste in 1850. The crowds came out in force to support the girls and got particularly animated when the French racers took to the start gate. French flags were waved wildly the length of the piste and cheers could be heard around the resort.
The first race kicked off in the morning amid light snow and low lying cloud, making visibility a little tricky. The pisteurs and instructors were busily tidying the piste to help the racers' descent but it was definitely an uphill battle. US favourite, and defending champion. Lindsey Vonn, sadly failed to finish on the first run giving Slovenian Tina Maze an increasing lead on her overall. Maze had a comfortable lead of 0.63 seconds after the first run holding French Tessa Worley to second place. Her second lap win held Austrian Kathrin Zettel to second place, finishing the day with a win, 0.22 seconds ahead of Zettel. Third spot went to Tessa Worley, much to the crowds’ delight.
The clouds cleared and the sun came out during the second lap making it a little easier on the racers but with an icy and technical course, snowfall throughout, and poor visibility it was certainly a challenge for the racers and several sadly failed to finish.
Elsewhere in resort there's plenty going on with Courchevel now almost fully operational. So once you've peeled off your boots and salopettes, check out some of our top tips of what not to miss this week....
On Tuesday night from 10pm The Dominoes make their 3 Valleys season debut at The Ski Lodge from 10pm. A really popular and lively foursome from last season, they've made one significant change having traded in their lead singer (who decided to stay back in Blighty for the winter) for the beautiful Natasha. If their tunes weren't enough to bring the guys running then she definitely will.
At the Boulotte this week, Katie's really firing on all cylinders. There's live music for après on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday and then to introduce something a little different She’s hosting a comedy night on Thursday evening from 10pm. Now we all love a good band (and obviously a few drinks to wash them down) but what resorts often lack is a bit of variety on the entertainment front. The Funky Fox ran a comedy night a few years ago and they were well received, so we can’t wait to see what Katie’s got up her sleeve. One thing’s for sure if they’re as quick witted as her, we’ll be in for a very entertaining evening! We might just avoid the front row though…..Tickets are €10 and available from the Boulotte.
For wine lovers out there, don't miss Wine Wedsnesday at The Drop Inn in Courchevel Le Praz. They have a wide wine selection from around the world and sell all glasses for only €3 on a Wednesday and serve free nibbles to line your stomach.
Then on Friday we’re excited for the return of duo Jess and Maxim at the Bubble Bar. The gorgeous brunette has an incredible voice, and Jess’s isn’t bad either. While they’re both stunning to watch and listen to, what we really like about this pair is their interaction with the crowd. You can’t feign personality and charisma and these guys have it and packed out the bar at their last gig. We’re just wondering if the ever talented Andy will be throwing some shapes this week. Surely every band needs their own Bez….?!
Roll on down to the Funky Fox, for Westy’s Blues Night, Friday from 10pm. See, who said we weren’t cultured? Blues and Rock and Roll right through until 01:30. What a week! Must get some sleep now in preparation.
Afternoon nap….don’t mind if I do!
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