RASNOV, Rou.—A sixth place finish was not the result Alex Loutitt was looking for at the Grand Prix on Sunday, but the Canadian ski jumping queen will leave Romania with valuable lessons.
“I was really frustrated with myself this weekend. I was over complicating things and causing stress,” said Loutitt. “I did a lot of learning this weekend. This hill really challenged my greatest weaknesses and made it clear with what I need to work on.”
The 19-year-old leaper from Calgary was ready to pounce onto her fifth podium in six events on the unique summer Grand Prix circuit. Loutitt was in third spot after producing the second furthest jump of 93 metres off the 97 metre hill in the opening round for a total of 116.9 points. She dropped to sixth after struggling in the final jump where she traveled just 83 metres for 85.6 points. She ended the day with a total of 202.5 points.
“I had issues with my timing this weekend. Although my jumps were not my best, I can be satisfied with where I ended up even at my worst,” added Loutitt. “It was honestly a great learning experience for me and it all helps in the lead up to the winter season.’
The Slovenians swept the women’s podium on Sunday. Nika Kriznar remained unbeaten this summer with a total of 238.9 points. She edged out her teammate, Ema Klinec, for the gold. Klinec racked up 238.5 points. Nika Prevc landed in third spot with a two-jump total of 210.2 points.
Abigail Strate, who narrowly missed her first career summer podium on Saturday, snagged her sixth straight top-10 on Sunday, placing eighth. The 22-year-old was consistent in her two attempts, posting a total score of 197.0 points.
Calgary’s Nicole Maurer continued her progression up the international standings. The 23-year-old had her best result of the summer in 24th spot, mixing together jumps of 81 andd 78 metres for a 159.3 points.
The summer Grand Prix showcases the top ski jumpers on the planet. The competition is performed on an in-run where the tracks are made from porcelain and the grass on the slope is covered with water-soaked plastic.
The Grand Prix resumes on September 30 in Hinzenbach, Austria.
Complete Women’s Grand Prix Results – Romania
Ski Jumping Canada is the governing federation for ski jumping in Canada. It is responsible for the governance of all ski jumping competitions in Canada and for the operation of the national team. For more information, please visit skijumpingcanada.com.
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