Embracing the Thrill of Skiing: A Journey of Speed, Connection, and Joy

Skiing is not just a sport; it's a super fun adventure that brings families together! I grew up in a family that loves ski racing, and the joy of being on the mountain with my family is what really matters. There's something magical about gliding down the slopes, feeling the wind on your face, and sharing laughs with the people you love. This post is all about my fun experiences on the snow, the thrill of zooming down the hills, and the amazing friendships we've made along the way. No matter if you're just starting out or have been skiing for a while, I hope my story shows you how awesome it is to enjoy the mountain with your family!

Discovering Skiing in a Racing Family

Growing up in a family where ski racing was a way of life, the mountain was my playground and training ground. My earliest memories are filled with the sound of skis slicing through snow and the rush of wind during downhill runs. I began skiing when I was 2 on the magic carpet in Fernie B.C.

The Thrill of Carving and Speed

There's nothing like the awesome feeling of zooming down a snowy hill on your skis! The edges of your skis grip the mountain, and you lean into the turns, making it feel like you're dancing with the snow. Adaptive skiing makes this super fun adventure possible for everyone! Every turn is a chance to show off your balance, strength, and timing!

My Journey with Adaptive Skiing

I always loved to move—no standing around! So I started on a harness, and my parents and coaches took me all over the hill.

The Thrill of Speed

Speed adds an extra layer of excitement. When you push yourself to go faster, the mountain seems to open up, and your senses sharpen. The wind rushes past, and the world narrows to the rhythm of your skis. For me, adaptive skiing has been a way to reclaim that exhilarating sensation of flying down the hill, talk about gaining confidence.

The Social Side of Skiing

Skiing is not just about the runs; it is also about the people you meet and the moments shared. Riding the chairlift offers a unique chance to connect with fellow skiers. Conversations spark naturally, whether about the best trails, the latest gear, or simply the joy of being outdoors. I have learned so much about conversations and the sport from these rides and still have my favourite topics and questions. My family and coaches were always pros at chatting and keeping skiing in line with my interests.

From an early age my favourite topics included cars, places, travel, history and sports.

Adaptive skiing programs are super friendly! One of my besties to this day was my very first ski coach. Everyone gets what it’s like to face tough stuff and to cheer each other on when we do something awesome, no matter how big or small. This was an incredible opportunity for feeling so proud! It’s like having a big family that helps each other out, even when we’re not on the snow. For me, making friends while waiting in line for the ski lift or sipping hot chocolate at Slopeside with my very first coaches Alina and Scott was just as fun as skiing down the mountain!

Embracing Your Own Skiing Journey

I ski on a red harness. I have always needed to move and so standing around the magic carpet wouldn't do so I went right to skiing on runs with a harness.

I have had about 20 pairs of skis since I began skiing at 2. I started skiing on my first dynastars, then princess skis, volkl mantras, rossi hero jr, bubble gum powder skis, volkl race tigers and now Rossi gs and slalom hero skis and even Leki race poles. I have had about 20 pairs of skis. I started skiing with my Mom and Dad when I was 2 on my red harness and as I grew I got a Petzl climbing harness and joined the Fernie Adaptive program started by Grace and coach Alina and Scott took me all over the mountain with other kids. When I was school age my sisters were in the Fernie Racing Program and my awesome adaptive coach Alina was also an Alpine Ski racing coach so I joined some training days with them and even foreran some races. It was like one big family. My school had ski Fridays and so I joined that as well and got to ski with my school buddies all through these years with Coach Alina or mom and dad or my sisters on the harness.

The chair is the best place to chat and from an early age I've had my favourite topics to share and learned so much about people and the places they are from, where they have skiied, what adventures they have done and so much more.

Embracing Adaptive Skiing

Every skier’s path is different. Adaptive skiing invites you to explore what works best for your body and spirit. Whether you are trying adaptive skiing for the first time or looking to improve your skills, the key is to embrace the journey with an open heart.

What is Adaptive Skiing?

Adaptive skiing is designed to accommodate individuals with varying abilities, allowing everyone to enjoy the thrill of skiing. It includes specialized equipment and techniques tailored to meet individual needs.

Benefits of Adaptive Skiing

• Enhances physical fitness and coordination

• Boosts confidence and self-esteem

• Encourages social interaction and community involvement

• Provides a sense of freedom and adventure

Getting Started

If you're interested in trying adaptive skiing, consider the following steps:

• Research local adaptive skiing programs

• Consult with instructors experienced in adaptive techniques

• Choose the right equipment that suits your needs

• Set personal goals and be open to learning

Conclusion

Adaptive skiing is more than just a sport; it's a way to connect with nature, challenge yourself, and find joy in movement. Embrace the journey and enjoy every moment on the slopes!

Here are some tips to get started or deepen your experience:

• Find a local adaptive skiing program: Many ski resorts offer lessons and rentals tailored to adaptive skiers.

• Connect with others: Join clubs or online groups to share stories and advice.

• Set personal goals: Whether it’s mastering a new turn or simply enjoying more time on the snow, goals keep you motivated.

• Celebrate progress: Every run counts, so acknowledge your achievements along the way.

  
  

Sharing your story can inspire others and build a stronger community. Your experience matters, and the mountain welcomes you.

The Joy of Adaptive Skiing Is Within Reach

Adaptive skiing has given me more than just the thrill of speed and carving turns. It has connected me to an incredible community and helped me meet up with new friends and discover joy on the mountain and encourages everyone to find their own way down the hill.

If you have ever thought about trying adaptive skiing, now is the time. Embrace the challenge, enjoy the ride, and share your journey with others. The mountain is waiting, and so is the thrill of carving your own path.