Galhuber: ‘It was clear, I’m going to keep fighting’

noe.ORF.at: Katharina Galhuber Four weeks after her cruciate ligament rupture in Argentina, first question: How are you?

Katharina Galhuber: Good so far. The knee is healing, and rehabilitation is going according to plan so far. Currently there is a lot of lymphatic drainage and a lot of passive movement in the program. I have to use crutches for a relatively long time, but I’m already in a very positive mood. Of course, the whole thing was a slap in the face. The 40 hour return flight from Argentina was very long. But from the moment Dr. Fink told me the operation went well, I looked forward again.

noe.ORF.at: Let’s get back to the action. Can you describe exactly how it happened?

Galhuber: It was a pretty amazing fall during slalom training. I must have gotten on my sled. Lift this skate tips and tighten my feet. I fell backwards and lost my balance in the process. I turned around and realized that something wasn’t right.

noe.ORF.at: I have ruptured my cruciate ligament for the second time now. This is one of the worst injuries, especially for a skater. What is going on in your head?

Galhuber: I am a positive person by nature. I thought it might not be tragic. Unfortunately, a cruciate ligament rupture has come true. That was of course very difficult for me. I had big visions and goals for the winter. This is World Cup season after all. During the preparations I noticed that there were a lot of things that happened and then it was over within five seconds. But my whole team and family support and trust me. It was clear to me that I would continue to fight.

noe.ORF.at: What is the medium to long-term strategy?

Galhuber: I’m now home in Göstling for four weeks of rehab. Then I came to Physio Center Igls near Innsbruck for three weeks. I had good experiences there when I ruptured my first cruciate ligament. Then I’ll get off the crutches. Then I drive to the rehabilitation base in ÖSV Bad Hofgastein. We’ll see with the ÖSV coach there.

noe.ORF.at: You can read “Coming Stronger” in one of the posts. How much fire is still burning in you?

Galhuber: My goal hasn’t changed drastically. There was only a detour. Of course I still have a long way to go, but I also see that as a positive. I have plenty of time until next winter and this will relieve a lot of stress. The fire inside me caught fire. I also like to take the time to develop – personally, mentally and physically. Then I will be really fit for next season.