Kitz Charity Trophy: 270,000 euros raised for mountain farmers

The Hahnenkamm Downhill Race was followed on Saturday afternoon by the next highlight – this time not from a sporting perspective, but a charitable one: the Kitz Charity Trophy. Now in its 27th year, the charity race once again raised funds for mountain farmers in need across North, East and South Tyrol, with an impressive €270,000 collected this year.

What began 27 years ago has become a true success story in support of a good cause. In keeping with tradition, the Kitz Charity Trophy again took place on Saturday after the Downhill Race on the finish slope of the Streif. The concept has remained unchanged since its inception: Personalities from the worlds of sport, business and show business daringly ‘plunge’ down the finish slope. Thanks to loyal sponsors and committed participants, a total of around 3.4 million euros has been raised since the premiere in 1998 – 270,000 euros were collected this weekend alone.

Amongst those infected by the racing and fundraising fever this year were Melissa Naschenweng, Kjetil Jansrud, Hannes Reichelt, Hans Knauß, Philipp Schörghofer, Armin Assinger, Harti Weirather, Marlies Raich, Franz Klammer, Felix Neureuther, Maria Riesch, Aksel Lund Svindal, Fritz Strobl, Didier Cuche, Johan Eliasch, Sebastian Vettel and mascot Hansi Hahn. Former Formula 1 boss Bernie Ecclestone acted as race director, while DJ Ötzi kept spirits high with live entertainment.

A total of 20 teams of three persons took part. The recipe for success in this ski spectacle is a combination of both luck and skill: the celebrity team must first negotiate a giant slalom ski course, followed by the roll of a dice at the finish line which decides the final outcome. The number rolled is multiplied by the team’s combined race time – rolling a one is equivalent to hitting the jackpot, while a sic can almost be compared to crashing out. Despite all the sporting rivalry, however, supporting a good cause remains very much the focus.

Participants are free to choose how they cross the finish line. Most chose to compete on skis, but anything that adds to the fun is allowed. Even snowboards made an appearance this year – and of course mascot, Hahnsi Hahn. “The most important thing for me is having fun and doing something for a good cause. I don’t race very often anymore, but I’m always happy to take part here in Kitzbühel and in front of this crowd,” said former Streif winner, Hannes Reichelt.

Victory went to the team led by Biogena managing director Stefan Klingelmair, together with Philipp Schörghofer and Kjetil Jansrud.

This charity event has been initiated and organised by the agency WWP (Weirather-Wenzel & Partner) since its very inception.

Photo © WWP