Rebel on the Edge

Sunday, Jan. 15, 2006 By BILL SAPORITO
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Bode Miller, the skier with the unorthodox style, is one of the few racers with the stamina and versatility to compete in all five Alpine events in Torino. In addition to the four shown here, Miller will ski the combined event, which is a shorter downhill run followed by two slalom runs DOWNHILL Vertical drop: 2,625 ft. (800 m) It’s the longest course of the Alpine events and one of the most dangerous competitions at the Winter Games, with speeds of more than 80 m.p.h. (130 km/h). Skiers take one run down a single course marked by a few control gates, and the fastest time wins. Racers may take practice runs • All control gates are open (perpendicular to the run) to mark the course SUPER-G 2,130 ft. (650 m) Shorter than the downhill but longer than the giant slalom, the super giant slalom combines speed with technical turns. Racers carve fast turns over a single course with at least 35 directional changes, at speeds of more than 60 m.p.h. (100 km/h). A morning inspection is allowed, but no practice run • Some gates are closed (parallel to run) to force turns that control speed GIANT SLALOM 1,475 ft. (450 m) It’s a looser, faster version of the slalom, with wider turns. The fastest total time from two runs on different courses wins. Parabolic (hourglass-shaped) skis used for the past 15 years have allowed better control, so more traditional speed racers are entering this event. Only an inspection is permitted • About 50 sets of open and closed gates SLALOM 720 ft. (220 m) It's the shortest course, with the quickest turns. Racers use short skis and body armor to protect against the impact of gates. Each skier makes two consecutive runs down the same slope on different courses. The lowest combined score wins. Only an inspection is permitted • 55 to 75 gates, including flushes (three or four closed gates in a row) and hairpins (two closed gates)

With reporting by James Graff, Helen Scott-Smith/ Wengen