Take to Austria's slopes

Fans have the opportunity to take to Austria's slopes to view FIS Snowboarding World Cup free of charge.

Taking place on October 20th and October 21st, Solden's slopes are set to host the next stage of the FIS World Tour, WhatsOnWhen.com reports. Reportedly one of Austria's top ski resorts, Solden will be hosting the tour's parallel giant slalom events in which riders race head-to-head on parallel courses. The competition takes the form of a knockout based on the times it takes riders to complete the course.

Over 2,000 metres high and served by 22 lifts, Solden's slopes are best suited for skiing intermediates, the article notes. The areas lively nightlife also regularly attracts German and Dutch tourists.

Meanwhile, work began last week on the course in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany, which will play host to the FIS Alpine World Ski Championships in 2011. According to FIS, modifications include a widening of the course from 16 to 39 metres and a new a replacement for the venue's wooden bridge.