Zakopane's Wielka Krokiew hill has long been considered a venue where Polish ski jumpers perform at their best, according to Wojciech Fortuna, who won Olympic gold for Poland at the 1972 Winter Games in Sapporo.
“There is something magical about the Zakopane hill,” Fortuna told state news agency PAP. "It gives Polish ski jumpers wings."
Fortuna said that even during periods of weaker form, Polish ski jumpers can often be "relied upon to rise to the occasion" at the home venue.
He singled out 18-year-old Kacper Tomasiak as Poland’s leading competitor this season, pointing to his inspiring performance in the recent Four Hills Tournament.
Fortuna also said that three-time Olympic champion Kamil Stoch, who has announced plans to retire at the end of the season, will be aiming to end his career on a high note.
"Each of the Poles is capable of exceeding expectations, especially in Zakopane," Fortuna said.
Five ski jumpers are expected to represent Poland in the individual and team competitions over the weekend.
Some top international competitors have opted to skip the World Cup event in Poland as they focus on preparations for next month's Winter Olympics, the PAP news agency reported.
However, overall World Cup leader and Four Hills Tournament winner Domen Prevc of Slovenia is set to compete in Zakopane, officials said.
(pm/gs)
Source: IAR, PAP