Lindsey Vonn falls during 1st run of World Cup slalom in Austria; straddles gate but unhurt

Vonn falls, unhurt in 1st run of WCup slalom

FLACHAU, Austria — American Lindsey Vonn fell during the first run of a World Cup slalom Tuesday but was not hurt.

Vonn fell after straddling a gate halfway down the Griessenkar course and lost her right ski. The overall World Cup leader is coming off wins in speed races over three straight days last weekend, the first American to complete such a feat.

Vonn has skied with a protective brace on her lower left arm since injuring her arm in a giant slalom crash last month.

Vonn said she will put in some extra slalom training this week ahead of the technical races next weekend in Maribor, Slovenia.

“It’s difficult as long as my arm hurts,” she said. “But happily there are not many slaloms left this season.”

Susanne Riesch of Germany led with a run of 47.09 seconds. Older sister Maria Riesch was second and Kathrin Zettel of Austria was third.

Anja Paerson of Sweden also skied out after losing her balance and appeared to have injured her right knee. Sandrine Aubert of France, who won two slaloms this season, straddled the final gate.

Vonn will keep the lead in the overall standings. Maria Riesch trailed by 192 points going into the race.