Austrian ladies swap ski clothes for cycle shorts

Staying fit for skiing in the off-season can be tricky, but it certainly pays to keep in shape when the snow comes along later in the year. The Austrian ladies team know exactly what it takes to be at their best physically all year round, and have been in Spain this month to practise their cycling skills. Elisabeth Gorgl, Michaela Kirchgasser and company have been swapping their ski wear for cycling clothes to focus on conditioning. Austria's ski team have their Swiss rivals to thank for providing them with top bikes and guides while in Mallorca. Kirchgasser told the FIS website: "It allows a good start with my training including individualised training pace on the bike. It feels like a training camp and a holiday at the same time." Meanwhile, the US ski team has announced a series of coaching changes as they begin preparations for the 2012/13 season.