From the Brett Farve picture scandal to it's reviews of each mornings
Sportscenter, the website
deadspin has long been known for keeping a close eye on the world of sports. I found a recent
article by freelance writer Amanda Ruggeri especially interesting. In it Ruggeri takes the reader through each phase of the world's most dangerous downhill race course, the legendary Hahnenkamm in Kitzbühel, Austria. As a former downhill skier myself, I found the article compelling and a refreshing look at one of the world's craziest sports. In my opinion this article represents the best of what sports journalism can do for a topic or sport that may not be that popular. Her article takes an unconventional approach in showing a sport that is mostly passed over by American culture. Ruggeri weaves youtube videos into her story to show just how dangerous Hahnenkamm can be. She also breaks down the skiing lingo that occasionally turns off many American fans, comparing skiing on ruts to driving a car over potholes at 90 mph. However, what really made this article for me was the thorough follow up Ruggeri did with all of the skiers injured on the course. She explained the recovery process each skier underwent on there way back on the slopes even telling how after his crash at Hahnenkamm in 1989 Canadian skier Brian Stemmle's pelvis was "ripped open like a book." Ruggeri even met with Canadian racer Jan Hudec who pulled out of racing Hahnenkamm last year after previewing the course. Which helps paint the bigger picture that even some of the world's most fearless skiers are scared of what's to come when they step into the gate at Hahnenkamm.
- Liam Ariel
