3 February 2004
LEIPZIG – Sky flying world champion Sven Hannawald will not compete at this weekend’s sky flying World Cup event in Oberstdorf, the German ski federation, DSV, confirmed Tuesday.
The 29-year-old German made the decision after working since last Saturday with national coach Wolfgang Steiert in a training camp in Lillehammer.
“Technically, Sven is back jumping at a very good level,” said Steiert. “However in my opinion, it’s still too early to take part in the sky flying in Obersdorf.
“We’re preparing his next competitive start for sometime later this season.”
Hannawald, hasn’t competed since his early departure from the World Cup event in Zakopane on 17 January when he finished in lowly 30th place.
Hannawald’s next competitive appearance is likely to be in the World Cup event at Willingen from 13-15 February although his main target remains the defence of his world title at the World Sky Flying Championships in Planica, Slovenia, which take place 21-22 February.
DPA
Subject: German news