Olympic Champion Michelle Gisin Suffers High-Speed Crash in World Cup Downhill Practice

Michelle Gisin, a 32-year-old Swiss skier and two-time Olympic champion, was airlifted from the course after crashing hard in a practice run for a World Cup downhill at St Moritz in Switzerland on Thursday. The incident occurred on a cloudy morning when Gisin was racing at more than 110kmh (69mph) on the course, which is scheduled to host downhills on Friday and Saturday, followed by a super-G on Sunday. According to eyewitnesses, one of Gisin's skis seemed to catch an edge approaching a fast left-hand turn, and she lost control, going straight into the safety fences. The crash was severe enough to warrant an airlift by a helicopter to ensure Gisin's safety and provide her with immediate medical attention. "It was a big impact, and she was shaken up," said a witness who wished to remain anonymous. "We're all relieved that she's being taken care of." Gisin has been a dominant force in women's alpine skiing, with multiple World Cup titles and Olympic medals to her name. Her experience and skill level make her a favorite to compete at the highest level, and her crash has sent shockwaves through the skiing community. "Michelle is an incredible athlete, and we're all thinking of her during this difficult time," said a spokesperson for the International Ski Federation (FIS). The crash has raised questions about the safety of the course and the measures in place to prevent such incidents. "We take the safety of our athletes very seriously, and we're conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash," said a spokesperson for the FIS. The investigation will aim to determine the cause of the crash and identify any potential areas for improvement. Gisin's crash is a sobering reminder of the risks involved in high-speed sports like alpine skiing. While safety measures are in place to minimize the risk of injury, accidents can still happen. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing athlete safety and well-being. As Gisin undergoes medical evaluation and treatment, the skiing community is holding its breath, hoping for a speedy recovery. The World Cup events scheduled for this weekend will proceed as planned, with Gisin's participation uncertain at this time.