The Holy Father explained this on Saturday when he received the Austrian National Alpine Ski Team in audience.
He explained: "Sports can help man to see his own capacities as talents and his life as a gift of God.
"Even when sports are pursued at high levels it is necessary to preserve the interior harmony between body and spirit, not reducing sports to a mere seeking after results."
The Pope invited his guests to be "messengers in the world of this winter sport so loved by the Austrian people."
ZE07100708 - 2007-10-07