I just saw the new outline for the new world cup calender 22/23. And - surprise - no Four Hills Tournament for women again and no skiflying for them either. I am really angry right now. Instead of finally introducing 4HT for women, they want to start a new short tour for women on just two different hills after Christmas probably to have an excuse to keep 4HT without women forever.
I understand why you're angry as these are things that women should have long time ago and we dream about full equality. But if I'm being honest, I'm happy with the new calendar, because it is a big step forward! Women finally have the same amount of individual competitions as men, the World Cup has never started so early and I'm excited for the new tournament. Isn't it better than having no competitions at all for about a month like it used to be? Of course I would love the girls to have their FHT, but if the organizers decided to be stubborn and keep it for men, then I'm gonna take the New Year Tournament. In my opinion though, it certainly won't be an excuse to keep the Four Hills from women. I think that it is more of a temporar thing, a testing ground for the concept of women's Four Hills, or maybe it will stay for longer in the women's WC and then I'm sure it can be just as exciting! Even though it's only one town and small hills this year, it is going to be extended in the future to two, then to three locations. It's a good start and sure as hell better than nothing.
Of course we shouldn't pat FIS on the back for agreeing for this calendar and make it feel like it's enough, because, as I said, I think it is just more of a good start, a step into the right direction. But I choose to be happy, because after the last awful calendar-wise season, I finally see a positive change. Let's start with an equal amount of events and filling the gap between December competitions and Japanuary. And then step by step: ski flying, Four Hills, equal pay... If it's impossible to have it all right now, I agree to get these things gradualy. I respect your opinion though and you don't have to agree with me! I'm open for a conversation 😊