New Role for Former ÖSV Downhill Skier

With the words "Now it's time to close this chapter. I look back with gratitude and look forward to what's to come," Daniel Danklmaier announced his retirement via Instagram this summer.

His greatest success during his active career as a downhill skier was his fifth-place finish at the legendary 2019 Hahnenkamm downhill in Kitzbühel. Repeatedly, severe injuries set him back, which is why he drew a line under his career after eight operations.

However, the 33-year-old Styrian will remain involved in skiing. At his long-time equipment supplier Atomic, he is taking on the position of Manager Junior Racing for Austria and Germany. D

uring this, the Ennstal native is responsible for both talent scouting and cross-national coordination in the youth sector. The further development of the "Juniors to Champions" support program also falls within his area of responsibility.

Collaboration with Ex-ÖSV Coach

Jürgen Graller, a former ÖSV coach and one-time companion of the 33-year-old, is also involved with Atomic.

"My connection with Daniel dates back to his time as an athlete, when I had the privilege of coaching him. This brings things full circle for me. Daniel comes directly from the race track, so to speak, and will be able to provide our young talents with valuable input on their path to the top of the world," says Atomic's Junior Manager Racing Europe.

Danklmaier himself looks forward to his new task with great anticipation: "It means a lot to me that my journey with Atomic continues. I look forward to working with the young athletes." For Atomic Race Director Christian Höflehner, Danklmaier embodies "the Atomic DNA" and thus brings "ideal prerequisites to take our juniors to the next level."