Thursday, August 13, 2009

Bergisel Ski Jump, Innsbruck

What a great day we had today! The weather was absolutely gorgeous, proving the weather predictions wrong again.


Innsbruck is a wonderful city, full of outdoor cafes, shops and history. The backdrop isn't too bad either!

Our main goal was Bergisel, the relatively new ski jump built on the site of the jumps of old. They actually started jumping here in the 1920's. Over the years, the site has gone from natural jumps to what it is now. There's been world championships, Four Hill Championships and even a papal visit in 1988.


There has also been two Winter Olympics here, in 1964 and 1976.


The new jump opened in 2002. There is a restaurant up at the top, elevators for guests and jumpers and an arena that holds 28,000.


If you look closely,right where the "mat" bends and a little to the right, you will see a jumper! We knew the jump was open for visitors but imagine the thrill of seeing a practice!


Yes, these guys actually fly through the air. We found it quite ... interesting ... that just beyond the end of the jump, there is a cemetery! Click the image to enlarge..you'll see it very clearly!! This is what the guys see as they are flying up to 130 meters!!

If you would like to see more pictures, please visit The Camera Lenz. I've got a slide show already posted. I hope you enjoy this unique and wonderful experience as much as I did!

7 comments:

SONYASPHERE said...

Very nice...the last time I went up there I walked and my legs hurt the next day! Nice to see they have that new place with an elevator! I think I'm ready to go back!

Linda of the Lake said...

Thanks for telling us that was a guy - I thought it was a W symbol! Beautiful pics, as usual

quiltmom anna said...

Hi wanda,
Thought you might find Micki's post interesting today. She has a link to a photographer that you may enjoy.
Go here: http://thedote.blogspot.com/

The ski jump photos were amazing- I checked out both of your blogs.

Hope you are having a great weekend.
Regards,
Anna

em's scrapbag said...

That's cool. I just saw the ski jump from the 2002 olympics yesterday on my way home from girls camp. They are neat.

Susan Elliott said...

Hey, I've been there!!!! I was only 22 but I have been there. YEA!@

Extreme Drive said...

Great pictures. I know you posted this in the Summer, and I was there on the 5th December for the Air + Style competition. Have a look at what the stadium looks like with snow if you like.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gKkaDOPDfYs

Elaine said...

I was up there on Thursday morning when four of the ski jumpers was practicing. Great stuff.