Long before the starting gun fires for the new season and the first slalom gate is passed, there’s already a lot to do. Back in May I was already on the snow for 14 days.

I’d really been looking forward to that. Conditions in Sölden were ideal, and because of corona there were very few people around. We had perfect conditions and proper peace and quiet. Of course we had to follow all the rules, meaning COVID-19 tests before and after travelling, and that was strictly checked. Right now the fitness programme is running at full throttle, for two months in total – June and July. In August it’s back on the snow. Then a week on the slopes alternates with a week at home, where my help is needed on my parents’ farm, with fitness sessions in between. The programme is supported by my sporting team: on the one hand the ÖSV, which runs superbly organised snow training sessions and camps, and on the other my individual coaching team.

And then there’s Team Michi Matt. They mostly stay behind the scenes, so I’d like to bring them into the spotlight with a photo. Many thanks to all the hard-working hands and minds who support me so actively, and a big thank you in advance to all of you who’ll be keeping your fingers crossed for me again in the 2020/21 season.

Yours, Michi Matt