Seizinger Falls, Street Places Third

Isolde Kostner of Italy seized the moment and the victory Monday when favored Katja Seizinger fell just 15 seconds into the super-G at the World Alpine Championships.

Americans Picabo Street and Hilary Lindh, both downhill specialists, finished third and fifth.

“I can’t believe it,” Street said, thrilled with a medal in an event that’s not her specialty. “I’m extremely happy with third place. Winning a medal is really a surprise.”

Seizinger had been the dominant skier all season in super-G and defending world champion, so her fall created unexpected opportunities for the others, especially Kostner.

Skiing three starting spots after Seizinger, she finished the 7,464 feet course in 1 minute 21.00 seconds. Switzerland’s Heidi Zurbriggen was second in 1:21.66 and Street was third in 1:21.71.

The opening event of the championship was held in almost perfect conditions, with 10,000 fans watching, including Spanish King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia.