Portugal Colonial - Rassat sweeps to slalom victory to take World cup lead

It was the 27-year-old's second victory of the season, and of his career, following his win in Gurgl in Austria in November. He also finished third on Wednesday in the Madonna di Campiglio in Italy.

"This start to the season has brought me some wonderful surprises," he told Swiss television.

Rassat started the second run fourth but sped through the bottom half of the Swiss slope to record the fastest time and edge two Norwegians.

The Frenchman finished 0.18sec ahead of Atle Lie McGrath and 0.20 clear of first-run leader Henrik Kristoffersen.

A late bloomer, Rassat competed in his first World Cup event, also in Adelboden, just four years ago when he failed to make the second run.

"Winning in front of this crazy crowd, I'm moved, it's incredible," said Rassat.

Rassat moved to the top of the slalom standings, 26 points clear of compatriot Clement Noel who was 12th.

Norwegian Timon Haugan, who was eliminated in the first run on Sunday, dropped from top to third, 55 points behind Rassat.

McGrath climbed to fourth in the event standings and third in the overall, still a huge 477 points behind Marco Odermatt who has dominated the speed events.

P.L.Madureira--PC