The ski flying season concluded with a captivating showdown at Planica. Amongst the triumphs and disappointments, Polish ski jumpers found themselves in the limelight, notably Aleksander Zniszczoł, who secured a commendable third place in Sunday’s Letalnica event (HS 240).
Austrian Daniel Huber emerged as the victor of the day, clinching not only the top spot in the competition but also the coveted Ski Flying Crystal Globe in the 2023/24 season.
For the Polish contingent, who faced setbacks throughout the World Cup season, it was a resplendent conclusion. Zniszczoł, alongside Piotr Żyła, delivered a thrilling performance that ignited the spirits of Polish fans gathered at Planica. Zniszczoł, holding onto second place halfway through the event, exhibited nerves of steel as he maintained his position on the podium in the second series, a feat that had eluded him on numerous occasions before. Soaring to a distance of 237.5 meters, Zniszczoł secured third place, marking his second career podium finish.
Żyła, not to be outdone, launched himself into the final with an impressive jump of 240 meters, ultimately claiming fifth place in the competition.
The events of Sunday triggered changes in the overall World Cup standings for ski flying. Ultimately, the Small Crystal Globe found its way to Huber, as his main rival, Kraft, settled for fourth place in the final competition.
In his farewell competition, Peter Prevc concluded his endeavours in sixth place, one position below Żyła. Kamil Stoch found himself in 16th place, while Dawid Kubacki finished in 29th place.
Sunday’s Competition Results:
- 1. Daniel Huber (247; 242.5) – 487.7
- 2. Domen Prevc (233; 238) – 444.3
- 3. Aleksander Zniszczoł (237; 237.5) – 438.1
- 4. Stefan Kraft (230.5; 239.5) – 436.4
- 5. Piotr Żyła (230; 240) – 424.9
- 16. Kamil Stoch (227.5; 223) – 392.8
- 29. Dawid Kubacki (194; 187.5) – 294.3
ALEKSANDER ZNISZCZOŁ TRZECI A PIOTR ŻYŁA PIĄTY W FINALE PUCHARU ŚWIATA W PLANICY#skijumpingfamily #Planica pic.twitter.com/nxdXghGhxk
— Olek Sieradzki (@oleksieradz) March 24, 2024