Skiing

[CDK]

Croatia's Janica Kostelic confirmed her dominance with her fourth World Cup slalom victory of the season and 17th overall in Semmering, Austria. I just wanted to push myself further



Janica Kostelic


The 20-year-old clocked one minute 38.67 seconds over the two runs to beat second-placed Christel Pascal of France by an enormous 1.11 seconds.

Leading after the first run by 0.46 seconds over Pascal, Kostelic was also quickest on the second leg.

"I wasn't so pleased with my first run so really attacked in the second although my father told me there was no need," said Kostelic.

"I just wanted to push myself further."

In the overall standings after 16 events Kostelic now has 955 points - a massive 436 clear of Italy's Karen Putzer.

The 2001 World Cup and slalom champion, whose winning streak was interrupted last year by a serious knee injury, is also an overwhelming favourite for the slalom title where she leads by 185 points from Pascal.

Italy's Nicole took third in 1:40.45 for her first podium finish.

Defending World Cup slalom champion Laure Pequegnot was fourth on 1:40.58.




Croatia is a skiing nation!

Even though there is one ski hill in the entire country...