European Cup, La Molina, Spain (9-11 Feb 07)
After a break of a week due to the cancellation again of Europa Cup races in Mt Baldo, Italy this weekend saw 4 members of the British squad in La Molina. Recent weeks had seen fellow Paralympic racers Sean Rose and Liz Miller doing well across the Atlantic. It was Docker’s turn to be handed the mantle of success.
He did not disappoint, back to form recording a top ten in the second Super G race finishing 6th in a strong field and narrowly missing a top 10 in the GS by one place to come 11th in what was a difficult technical course.
Docker quoting from his experiences said:
“With this being the first Super G of the season for me with races being cancelled because of lack or no snow this was my only chance to qualify for the last 2 world cup races to be held in Europe. The snow conditions here were great unlike other European resorts. After a messy first Super G (where I skidded out of the course but still managed to finish) for the second race I did what I do best and just went out and skied it. The run was far from perfect but came in 6th - Awesome - World Cup here I come.”
Further success was also delivered by “B” squad member Talan Skeels-Piggins recording a magnificent 9th in the even more technical Slalom race having achieved an impressive 18th in GS with Docker. Unfortunately, following a high speed fall, Willoughby sustained a fracture to her hand during her initial race and returned to the UK for treatment. She has since flown out to Kimberley for further training and will remain there to take part in the Canadian Nationals whilst the remainder of the squad return to Meribel in Europe to compete against each other in The British Land National Championships – a rare opportunity where both able and disabled athletes compete on the same course.