51.   The IOC also opened an investigation last week after blood-transfusion equipment was found in a house used by Austrian cross-country skiers at the games.

52.   The Italian Gazzetta dello Sport newspaper reported in its Saturday edition that a doctor with the Italian winter sports federation suspected Austrian skiers of doping.

53.   The IOC is also investigating Austrian cross-country skiers after blood-transfusion equipment was found in a house used by the team at the games.

54.   The only Italian woman skier with a personal trainer and coach, Compagnoni said she was impressed by the recent strong showing of Austrian skiers in technical events.

55.   The World Cup continues at nearby Val Gardena with back-to-back downhills Friday and Saturday, in which Austrian skiers could extend their winning streak.

56.   There is also Stefan Eberharter, the most successful Austrian skier after Maier, and Andreas Schifferer, Josef Strobl and Christian Mayer.

57.   Though Austrian skiers failed to make the top three, they nevertheless had four skiers in the top ten, while Italy had three.

58.   With only four Olympic berths available per discipline per nation, Austrian skiers have been fiercely vying among themselves to impress national selectors.

59.   Werner Franz was the fastest of the Austrian skiers, who have dominated the World Cup, finishing fifth.

60.   Austrian skiers are national icons.