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From the FasterSkier archive — posts syndicated from athletes’ and coaches’ own blogs between 2004 and 2012, kept online as published. Current coverage is at fasterskier.com.

Tag: Under 23 Questions

  • Under 23 Questions: Thomas O’Harra

    Under 23 Questions: Thomas O’Harra

    Thomas O’Harra (Alaska Pacific University) racing at 2018 U.S. Cross Country Championships last month at Kincaid Park in Anchorage, Alaska. (Photo: Ariana O’Harra)

    In an effort to showcase the North Americans who competed at last week’s International Ski Federation (FIS) 2018 Nordic Junior/U23 World Championships in Goms, Switzerland, we asked those qualifying athletes several questions about themselves — actually, we had them fill in the blanks. Here we have 21-year-old Thomas O’Harra, of Alaska Pacific University, who represented the U.S. at his first U23 Worlds (after competing at three Junior Worlds).

    Last week in Goms, O’Harra placed 43rd in the 15 k classic and 64th in the freestyle sprint.

    ***

    “My full name is Thomas O’Harra, but you can call me Thomas.

    I was born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska, and I learned to ski at the age of 5.

    I spent the time between U.S. nationals and Junior/U23 Worlds training and getting ready for school.

    The chase for third place during men’s 50 k freestyle at the 2017 U.S. Distance Nationals last March in Fairbanks, Alaska. Thomas O’Harra (123) leads, followed by Patrick Caldwell (103), Adam Martin (105), Eric Packer (119), Tyler Kornfield, and Tad Elliott. (Photo: Max Kaufman)

    This is my second time in Switzerland and seventh time racing internationally, and so far it’s been fantastic.

    One difference I’ve noticed between Switzerland and the U.S. is the chocolate is much better.

    Skiing and racing in the Alps is pretty great. Usually racing at altitude is fun for me because I enjoy steady grinding. There are many mountains around where I live.

    One of the things I’m most excited about for Junior/U23 Worlds in Goms is the opportunity to race against this level of competition again.

    One race I’m especially targeting there is the 30 k skiathlon (specifically, the second half).

    I really hope I can chat/make friends with someone from Norway and ask them if they think Klaebo is as cool as most Americans.

    My favorite thing at the breakfast where we are staying is I can eat as much as I’d like.

    Fondue is bread and cheese, my friend. The cheese here is stinky. And the chocolate is milk.

    If I had a totally free day here and didn’t have to worry about race fitness or training, I’d spend it taking pictures and taking the tram up to the mountaintops.

    The best way to follow me on social media is on Instagram @thomasoharra.”

  • Under 23 Questions: Nicole Schneider

    Under 23 Questions: Nicole Schneider

    Northern Michigan University’s Nicole Schneider (2) leads UVM’s Alayna Sonnesyn and Dartmouth’s Lauren Jortberg (r) in the 15 k freestyle mass start at 2017 NCAA Skiing Championships in Jackson, N.H.

    In an effort to showcase the North Americans who competed at last week’s International Ski Federation (FIS) 2018 Nordic Junior/U23 World Championships in Goms, Switzerland, we asked those qualifying athletes several questions about themselves — actually, we had them fill in the blanks. Here we have 20-year-old Nicole Schneider, of Northern Michigan University, who represented the U.S. at her first U23 Worlds (after competing at 2016 Junior Worlds in Romania).

    Last week in Goms, Schneider placed 40th in the 15 k skiathlon, 44th in the freestyle sprint and 49th in the 10 k classic.

    ***

    “My full name is Nicole Schneider.

    I was born and raised in Plymouth, Minnesota, and I learned to ski at French Park with the Minnesota Youth Ski League.

    I spent the time between U.S nationals and U23 Worlds training with my teammates and working with professors to make sure I don’t fall behind in my classes!

    The hardest workout I did in the last training year to prepare for this was 45 seconds on by 15 seconds off bounding intervals up Mount Marquette with my training partners.

    Nicole Schneider training in late January in Goms, Switzerland. (Photo: Hannah Rudd)

    This is my first time to Switzerland and third time racing internationally, so far it’s been the most beautiful country I’ve ever been to.

    One difference I’ve noticed between Switzerland and the U.S. is the copious amount of snow there is here. Seriously. The snowbanks are taller than me!

    Skiing and racing in the Alps is challenging. Usually racing at altitude is hard for me because I live at sea level! But I came to the precamp here so I’ve had no problems adjusting.

    One of the things I’m most excited about for U23 Worlds in Goms is to see how I stack up against the other girls my age.

    One race I’m especially targeting is the skiathlon because I’ve never done one before!

    I really hope I can make friends with someone from Norway and ask them what their secret is.

    My favorite thing at the breakfast where we are staying is the coffee.

    Fondue is… still haven’t had it here yet! The cheese here is exceptional. And the chocolate is to die for.

    If I had a totally free day here and didn’t have to worry about race fitness, I’d spend it alpine skiing in the Alps.

    The best way to follow me on social media is on instagram at @colieschneider.”

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bec5CazAjpJ/?taken-by=colieschneider

  • Under 23 Questions: Gareth Williams

    Under 23 Questions: Gareth Williams

    Gareth Williams (Telemark Nordic/Canadian U25 Team) training in Praz de Lys, France, last month before U23 World Championships in Switzerland. (Photo: Charles Castonguay)

    In an effort to showcase the North Americans who competed at last week’s International Ski Federation (FIS) 2018 Nordic Junior/U23 World Championships in Goms, Switzerland, we asked those qualifying athletes several questions about themselves — actually, we had them fill in the blanks. Here we have 20-year-old Gareth Williams, of Telemark Nordic and the Canadian National U25 Team, who represented Canada at his first U23 Worlds (after competing at last year’s Junior Worlds in Utah).

    Last week in Goms, Williams placed 41st in the 15 k classic.

    ***

    “My full name is Gareth James Williams, but you can call me G-Will.

    I was born in Vancouver and raised in Kelowna, and I learned to ski at Telemark Nordic Club.

    I spent the time between Mont Sainte-Anne trials and Junior/U23 Worlds at Mont Sainte-Anne and Praz de Lys in France training to race my best this week.

    The most fun workout I did in the last training year to prepare for this was altitude ski up the downhill slopes of Big White with my team and coach Adam.

    Gareth Williams (Telemark Nordic) racing in the freestyle sprint qualifier at 2017 World Cup Finals in Quebec City, Quebec, last March. He finished 74th. (Photo: Peter Collins)

    This is my third time in Switzerland and fifth time racing internationally, and so far it’s been much more competitive!

    One difference I’ve noticed between Switzerland and Canada is the price of a cappuccino!

    Skiing and racing in the Alps is kind of like skiing in Western Canada. Usually racing at altitude is good for me because I train at altitude fairly often. There are lots of mountains around where I live.

    One of the things I’m most excited about for Junior/U23 Worlds in Goms is the beautiful mountains.

    One race I’m especially targeting there is the skiathlon.

    I really hope I can chat/make friends with someone from Australia and ask them what the difference is between a wallaby and a kangaroo.

    My favorite thing at the breakfast where we are staying is the coffee.

    Fondue is not something I usually eat while trying to ski fast! The cheese here is not my thing. And the chocolate is the best in the world!

    If I had a totally free day here and didn’t have to worry about race fitness or training, I’d spend it on top of a mountain with some alpine skis.

    The best way to follow me on social media is on Instagram @gareth_williams.”

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BevRjUyFqDh/?taken-by=gareth_williams_

  • Under 23 Questions: Bill Harmeyer

    Under 23 Questions: Bill Harmeyer

    Bill Harmeyer (University of Vermont) racing at the Colby Carnival last month. (Photo: SkinnySki.com)

    In an effort to showcase the North Americans who competed at last week’s International Ski Federation (FIS) 2018 Nordic Junior/U23 World Championships in Goms, Switzerland, we asked those qualifying athletes several questions about themselves — actually, we had them fill in the blanks. Here we have 20-year-old Bill Harmeyer, of the University of Vermont, who represented the U.S. at his first U23 Worlds (after competing at last year’s Junior Worlds in Utah).

    Last week in Goms, Harmeyer placed 39th in the 15 k classic and 46th in the freestyle sprint.

    ***

    “My full name is Bill Harmeyer, but you can call me Bill.

    I was born in Burlington, Vermont, and raised in Underhill, Vermont, and I learned to ski at the farm behind my house.

    I spent the time between U.S. nationals and Junior/U23 Worlds nervously telling my teachers I’d be missing two weeks of classes, while maybe failing to mention I’d be missing more.

    Bill Harmeyer (University of Vermont) during an NTG camp training session last fall at Soldier Hollow in Midway, Utah. (Courtesy photo)

    The hardest/favorite/most awesome workout I did in the last training year to prepare for this was Trout Lake agility and OD TT with the Bend Endurance Academy.

    This is my first time in Switzerland and first (second including WJC in Utah last year) time racing internationally, and so far it’s been sweet.

    One difference I’ve noticed between Switzerland and the U.S. is the mountains are a bit different.

    Skiing and racing in the Alps is distracting, because you’re constantly looking around, and exhausting, because you just want to keep skiing. Usually racing at altitude is not too hard for me because I’ve done it before. There are some mountains around where I live.

    American Bill Harmeyer (University of Vermont) racing the first leg of the men’s 4 x 5 k relay on the last day of 2017 Junior World Championships at Soldier Hollow. After he tagged off in sixth, his team went on to finish ninth. (Photo: FlyingPointRoad.com)

    One of the things I’m most excited about for Junior/U23 Worlds in Goms is the chocolate. One race I’m especially targeting there is the skate sprint.

    I really hope I can chat/make friends with someone from Sweden and ask them if they’d like to trade suits.

    My favorite thing at the breakfast where we are staying is the cheese.

    Fondue is on my top 10 favorite foods list. The cheese here is fantastic. And the chocolate is also fantastic.

    If I had a totally free day here and didn’t have to worry about race fitness or training, I’d spend it exploring backcountry skiing or crust cruising while eating chocolate.

    The best way to follow me on social media is on Instagram @bllharmeyer1.”

  • Under 23 Questions: Catherine Reed-Métayer

    Under 23 Questions: Catherine Reed-Métayer

    Catherine Reed-Métayer (Skibec Nordique) racing at the Eastern Cup opener in Fort Kent, Maine. (Courtesy photo)

    In an effort to showcase the North Americans who competed at last week’s International Ski Federation (FIS) 2018 Nordic Junior/U23 World Championships in Goms, Switzerland, we asked those qualifying athletes several questions about themselves — actually, we had them fill in the blanks. Here we have 19-year-old Catherine Reed-Métayer, of Skibec Nordique, who represented Canada at her first Junior Worlds. 

    Last week in Goms, Reed-Métayer placed 56th in the freestyle sprint and 62nd in the 10 k skiathlon.

    ***

    “My full name is Catherine, but you can call me 4.

    I was born and raised in St-Ferréol-les-Neiges, Quebec, and I learned to ski at 4 years old.

    Catherine Reed-Métayer (Skibec Nordique) during a training day last month in Praz de Lys, France. (Courtesy photo)

    I spent the time between Mont Sainte-Anne trials and Junior/U23 Worlds eating mousse au chocolat at Le Taconet in Praz de Lys, France.

    The most memorable workout I did in the last training year to prepare for this was a 3-hour ski in June on top of Whistler Blackcomb when we bonked hard but we had Scooby snacks and lucky charm bars to rely on with hangry Katie Weaver.

    This is my first time in Switzerland and first time racing internationally, and so far it’s been sketchy.

    One difference I’ve noticed between Switzerland and Canada is that they have emergency raclette kits in convenience stores, just in case.

    Skiing and racing in the Alps is just as sweet as a baby golden retriever. Usually racing at altitude is funny for me because je suis dans le tapis ben raide. There are short mountains around where I live.

    One of the things I’m most excited about for Junior/U23 Worlds in Goms is learning Russian slang.

    One race I’m especially targeting there is all of them.

    I really hope I can chat/make friends with someone from Canada and ask them how was their day.

    My favorite thing at the breakfast where we are staying is eating.

    Fondue is a French word indicating un mets à base de fromage fondu dans lequel on trempe des morceaux de pain. The cheese here is cheesy. And the chocolate is undiscovered… yet.

    If I had a totally free day here and didn’t have to worry about race fitness or training, I’d spend it with you my friend.

    The best way to follow me on social media is on Instagram @cathreedmet.”

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Beta1p4FNNW/?taken-by=cathreedmet

  • Under 23 Questions: Sofia Shomento

    Sofia Shomento racing in the 5 k freestyle at the Colby Carnival in Waterville, Maine. (Photo: FlyingPointRoad)

    In an effort to showcase the North Americans who competed at last week’s International Ski Federation (FIS) 2018 Nordic Junior/U23 World Championships in Goms, Switzerland, we asked those qualifying athletes several questions about themselves — actually, we had them fill in the blanks. Here we have 18-year-old Sofia Shomento, of the Dartmouth Ski Team, who represented the U.S. at her first Junior Worlds. 

    Last week in Goms, Shomento qualified for the freestyle sprint in 26th and went on to place 23rd overall, and finished 58th in the 10 k skiathlon.

    ***

    “My full name is Sofia Shomento, but you can call me Sof.

    I was born and raised in Bozeman, Montana, and I learned to ski at Bohart Ranch with the Bridger Ski Foundation.

    I spent the time between U.S. nationals and Junior/U23 Worlds catching up with classes and skiing with my teammates.

    The funnest workout I did in the last training year to prepare for this was running 121 laps (about 14 miles) around the homecoming bonfire with my class of 2021 teammates.

    This is my first time in Switzerland and second time racing internationally, and so far it’s been incredible!

    One difference I’ve noticed between Switzerland and the U.S. is the snow banks are much taller here!

    Skiing and racing in the Alps is breathtaking. Usually racing at altitude is fun for me because I grew up racing in the West. There are lots of mountains around where I live.

    One of the things I’m most excited about for Junior/U23 Worlds in Goms is meeting new people from around the world.

    One race I’m especially targeting there is the skate sprint.

    I really hope I can chat/make friends with someone from Norway and ask them “what’s the secret?”

    My favorite thing at the breakfast where we are staying is the fresh bread, cheese, and jam.

    Fondue is yummy. The cheese here is delicious. And the chocolate is life changing.

    If I had a totally free day here and didn’t have to worry about race fitness or training, I’d spend it alpine skiing.

    The best way to follow me on social media is on Instagram @sofiashomento.”

  • Under 23 Questions: Ty Godfrey

    Under 23 Questions: Ty Godfrey

    The Godfrey brothers, Ty and Reed, skiing in Kananaskis Country near their home in Canmore, Alberta. (Photo: Sam Hendry)

    In an effort to showcase the North Americans who competed at last week’s International Ski Federation (FIS) 2018 Nordic Junior/U23 World Championships in Goms, Switzerland, we asked those qualifying athletes several questions about themselves — actually, we had them fill in the blanks. Here we have 19-year-old Ty Godfrey, of Team R.A.D./Canmore Nordic, who represented Canada at his second Junior Worlds.

    Last week in Goms, Godfrey raced to 57th in the 10 k classic. 

    ***

    “My full name is Ty Godfrey, but you can call me Reed, because most people call me that.

    I was born in Vancouver and raised in Canmore, and I learned to ski at age 1.

    I spent the time between Mont Sainte-Anne trials and Junior/U23 Worlds in Canmore making my fitness 0 to 100 real quick.

    Ty Godfrey (Photo: Russell Kennedy)

    The most technical workout I did in the last training year to prepare for this was dancing harder than J Diggs at a The Weeknd concert with my twin.

    This is my second time in Switzerland and third time racing internationally, and so far it’s been super sweet repping the Canadian gear.

    One difference I’ve noticed between Switzerland and the Canada is the absence of Vector Cereal in Switzerland.

    Usually racing at altitude is normal for me because I’ve spent my whole life in Canmore. There are so many mountains around where I live that you could do a different hike everyday.

    One of the things I’m most excited about for Junior/U23 Worlds in Goms is racing with the maple leaf on and scrolling through fresh Instagram explore.

    One race I’m especially targeting there is the 10 k classic individual start.

    I really hope I can chat/make friends with someone from Norway and ask them how Ryan and Max are doing.

    If I had a totally free day here and didn’t have to worry about race fitness or training, I’d spend it going for an adventure hike with a special someone I meet at the championships.

    The best way to follow me on social media is on Instagram @tygodfrey.”

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BevreRMA0ru/?taken-by=tygodfrey

  • Under 23 Questions: Reed Godfrey

    Under 23 Questions: Reed Godfrey

    Canada’s Reed Godfrey (Team R.A.D./Canmore Nordic) racing to fifth in his classic-sprint quarterfinal at 2017 Junior World Championships at Soldier Hollow in Midway, Utah. He finished the day in 25th overall. (Photo: FlyingPointRoad.com)

    In an effort to showcase the North Americans who competed at last week’s International Ski Federation (FIS) 2018 Nordic Junior/U23 World Championships in Goms, Switzerland, we asked those qualifying athletes several questions about themselves — actually, we had them fill in the blanks. Here we have 19-year-old Reed Godfrey, of Team R.A.D./Canmore Nordic, who represented Canada at his second Junior Worlds. 

    Last week in Goms, Godfrey raced to 31st in the freestyle sprint and 54th in the 20 k skiathlon.

    ***

    “My full name is Reed Godfrey, but you can call me Godfrey Twin.

    I was born and raised in Canmore, Alberta, and I learned to ski at age 1.

    I spent the time between Mont Sainte-Anne trials and Junior/U23 Worlds hanging out in Quebec with Gareth Williams and then training in Praz de Lys, France, with Team Canada.

    This is my second time in Switzerland and third time racing internationally, and so far it’s been a lot of fun!

    One difference I’ve noticed between Switzerland and Canada is better chocolate.

    Reed Godfrey (Courtesy photo)

    Skiing and racing in the Alps is really fun and different. Usually racing at altitude is good for me because I live and train at 1400m. There are big mountains around where I live.

    One of the things I’m most excited about for Junior/U23 Worlds in Goms is racing my hardest while wearing the Maple Leaf.

    Two races I’m especially targeting there are the sprint and skiathlon.

    I really hope I can chat/make friends with someone from Russia and ask them for a Lukoil headband.

    My favorite things at the breakfast where we are staying are cappuccino and Nutella.

    Fondue is pretty awesome. The cheese here is pretty awesome. And the chocolate is pretty awesome.

    If I had a totally free day here and didn’t have to worry about race fitness or training, I’d spend it wandering around eating Swiss chocolate and taking pics.

    The best way to follow me on social media is on Instagram @reedgodfrey.”

    (Reed Godfrey/Instagram)
  • Under 23 Questions: Hannah Halvorsen

    Under 23 Questions: Hannah Halvorsen

    Hannah Halvorsen (Alaska Pacific University) in Alaska. (Courtesy photo)

    In an effort to showcase the North Americans who competed at last week’s International Ski Federation (FIS) 2018 Nordic Junior/U23 World Championships in Goms, Switzerland, we asked those qualifying athletes several questions about themselves — actually, we had them fill in the blanks. Here we have 19-year-old Hannah Halvorsen, of Alaska Pacific University (APU), who represented the U.S. at her second Junior Worlds. 

    Last week in Goms, Halvorsen placed eighth in the freestyle sprint, 22nd in the 5 k classic, and eighth with the U.S. women’s 4 x 3.3 k relay.

    ***

    Hannah Halvorsen and her mom prepping for worlds. (Courtesy photo)

    “My full name is Hannah Halvorsen, most people just call me Hannah.

    I was born and raised in Truckee, and I learned to ski when I was two.

    I spent the time between U.S. nationals and Junior/U23 Worlds prepping for worlds.

    The hardest workout I did in the last training year to prepare for this was intervals with APU.

    This is my first time in Switzerland and fifth year racing internationally, and so far it’s been good.

    One difference I’ve noticed between Switzerland and the U.S. is everything’s smaller.

    Skiing and racing in the Alps is beautiful. Usually racing at altitude is comfortable for me because I grew up at altitude. There are also beautiful mountains around where I live.

    One of the things I’m most excited about for Junior/U23 Worlds in Goms is the opportunity to race internationally.

    Hannah Halvorsen getting some Junior World Championships prep in with Team Halvorsen. (Courtesy photo)

    One race I’m especially targeting there is the skate sprint.

    I really hope I can chat/make friends with someone from Norway and ask them what their secret is.

    My favorite thing at the breakfast where we are staying is the liver.

    Fondue is not the best pre-race meal. The cheese here plentiful. And the chocolate is abundant.

    If I had a totally free day here and didn’t have to worry about race fitness or training, I’d spend it skiing.

    The best way to follow me on social media is my Instagram @hannah.g.halvorsen or my twitter @realDonaldTrump.”

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BedxnOGFMfi/?taken-by=hannah.g.halvorsen

  • Under 23 Questions: Annika Richardson

    Under 23 Questions: Annika Richardson

    Annika Richardson (l) with her Thunder Bay teammate Katherine Stewart-Jones on the “only sunny day” during Canada’s pre-Junior Worlds training camp last month in Praz de Lys, France. (Courtesy photo)

    In an effort to showcase the North Americans who competed at last week’s International Ski Federation (FIS) 2018 Nordic Junior/U23 World Championships in Goms, Switzerland, we asked those qualifying athletes several questions about themselves — actually, we had them fill in the blanks. Here we have 20-year-old Annika Richardson, of the National Team Development Centre (NTDC) Thunder Bay, who represented Canada at her second Junior Worlds. 

    Last week, Richardson raced to 52nd in the freestyle sprint, 67th in the 5 k classic, and 15th with the women’s 4 x 3.3 k relay.

    ***

    “My full name is Annika Meghan Richardson, but you can call me Young Rich.

    I was born and raised on the West Coast (best coast) in Vancouver, and I learned to ski at Hollyburn in rain pants (most of the time).

    Annika Richardson (NTDC Thunder Bay) racing to 12th in the freestyle sprint qualifier on Jan. 9 at NorAm World Juniors trials at Mont Sainte-Anne, Quebec. (Courtesy photo)

    I spent the time between Mont Sainte-Anne trials and Junior/U23 Worlds thinking about catching up on school work.

    The slipperiest (it poured with rain) workout I did in the last training year to prepare for this was the Canada 150 rollerski mass start with Caitlin Compton-Gregg and the NTDC women’s team.

    This is my second time in Switzerland (in the last two weeks) and fourth time racing internationally, and so far it’s been full of crazy fast skiers.

    One difference I’ve noticed between Switzerland and Canada is they don’t say sorry as much.

    Skiing and racing in the Alps has been very snowy so far. Usually racing at altitude is a lactate party for me because when I’m racing I forget that it’s harder at altitude. There are lots of mountains around where I live in Vancouver but not really any in Thunder Bay.

    One of the things I’m most excited about for Junior/U23 Worlds in Goms is the big hill in the skate sprint course.

    One race I’m especially targeting there is the skate sprint qualifier.

    I really hope I can chat/make friends with someone from Germany and ask them if they own a pair of Lederhosen.

    My favorite thing at the breakfast where we are staying is definitely the strong coffee (finally).

    Fondue is not something I have had the opportunity to try yet but I bet it’s delicious. The cheese here is quite abundant and there is tons of variety. And the chocolate is very, very rich and a bit too available.

    If I had a totally free day here and didn’t have to worry about race fitness or training, I’d spend it practicing my downhill shredding skills on a powder day.

    The best way to follow me on social media is on Instagram @annika.richardson.”

  • Under 23 Questions: Canyon Tobin

    Under 23 Questions: Canyon Tobin

    Canyon Tobin (APU) racing in the classic sprint B-final at a Junior Nationals qualifier/Besh Cup in Fairbanks, Alaska. (Courtesy photo)

    In an effort to showcase the North Americans who competed at last week’s International Ski Federation (FIS) 2018 Nordic Junior/U23 World Championships in Goms, Switzerland, we asked those qualifying athletes several questions about themselves — actually, we had them fill in the blanks. Here we have 18-year-old Canyon Tobin, of Alaska Pacific University (APU), who represented the U.S. at his first Junior Worlds. 

    Last week, Tobin raced to 37th in the 10 k classic and 41st in the freestyle sprint. 

    ***

    “My full name is Canyon Tobin, but you can call me Tyler Kornfield.

    I was born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska, and I learned to ski at Junior Nordic.

    I spent the time between U.S. nationals and Junior/U23 Worlds skiing 😊.

    The bestest workout I did in the last training year to prepare for this was bicep supersets with my comrade in training, Luke Jager.

    This is my second time in Switzerland and second time racing internationally, and so far it’s been just really, really great, man.

    One difference I’ve noticed between Switzerland and the U.S. is a much weaker Gross Domestic Product here.

    Skiing and racing in the Alps is honestly really hard. Usually racing at altitude is honestly really hard for me because I’m a man of the sea. There are Alaskan mountains around where I live.

    One of the things I’m most excited about for Junior/U23 Worlds in Goms is the JNs dance.

    One race I’m especially targeting there is the 10 k individual classic race.

    I really hope I can chat/make friends with someone from Brazil and ask them how it be.

    My favorite thing at the breakfast where we are staying is the orange-mango juice…it’s to die for.

    Fondue is cheese. The cheese here is smelly. And the chocolate is not as good as Hershey’s®.

    If I had a totally free day here and didn’t have to worry about race fitness or training, I’d spend it Swiss cow tipping.

    The best way to follow me on social media is on Instagram @cktobs.”

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BexQfrOgVCU/?taken-by=cktobs

  • Under 23 Questions: Graham Ritchie

    Under 23 Questions: Graham Ritchie

    Graham Ritchie (NTDC Thunder Bay) racing in Praz de Lys, France, last month during the Canadian team’s training camp before 2018 Junior World Championships in Switzerland. (Photo: Charles Castonguay)

    In an effort to showcase the North Americans who competed at last week’s International Ski Federation (FIS) 2018 Nordic Junior/U23 World Championships in Goms, Switzerland, we asked those qualifying athletes several questions about themselves — actually, we had them fill in the blanks. Here we have 19-year-old Graham Ritchie, of the National Team Development Centre (NTDC) Thunder Bay, who represented Canada at his first Junior Worlds. 

    Last week in Goms, Ritchie qualified for the freestyle sprint heats in 28th and went on to place 12th overall. 

    ***

    “My full name is Graham Ritchie, but you can call me Graham.

    I was born and raised in Parry Sound, Ontario, and I learned to ski at Georgian Nordic.

    I spent the time between Mont Sainte-Anne trials and Junior/U23 Worlds in Thunder Bay.

    The funnest workout I did in the last training year to prepare for this was shinny with the TBay boys.

    This is my second time in Switzerland and second time racing internationally, and so far it’s been dandy.

    One difference I’ve noticed between Switzerland and Canada is there are no beavers.

    Skiing and racing in the Alps is thrilling! Usually racing at altitude is tricky for me because there are no mountains around where I live.

    One of the things I’m most excited about for Junior/U23 Worlds in Goms is racing for Canada for the first time.

    One race I’m especially targeting there is the sprint.

    I really hope I can chat/make friends with a girl from Norway and ask them out.

    My favorite thing at the breakfast where we are staying is cappuccino.

    Fondue is noice. The cheese here is noice. And the chocolate is noice.

    If I had a totally free day here and didn’t have to worry about race fitness or training, I’d spend it adventuring and taking pictures.

    The best way to follow me on social media is on Instagram @grahamritchie and Twitter @grahamritchie23.”

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BeqvyiqHhk8/?taken-by=grahamritchie

  • Under 23 Questions: Molly Gellert

    Under 23 Questions: Molly Gellert

    Molly Gellert (Alaska Winter Stars) racing in the freestyle sprint on Sunday, Jan. 28, at 2018 Junior World Championships in Goms, Switzerland. She placed 18th overall on the day. (Photo: Glenn Gellert)

    In an effort to showcase the North Americans who competed at last week’s International Ski Federation (FIS) 2018 Nordic Junior/U23 World Championships in Goms, Switzerland, we asked those qualifying athletes several questions about themselves — actually, we had them fill in the blanks. Here we have 17-year-old Molly Gellert, of Alaska Winter Stars, who represented the U.S. at her first Junior Worlds. 

    Last week in Goms, Gellert qualified for the freestyle sprint heats in 21st and went on to place 18th overall. She also placed 40th in the 10 k skiathlon.

    ***

    “My full name is Margaret, but you can call me Molly.

    I was born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska, and I learned to ski at 7 years old.

    I spent the time between U.S. nationals and Junior/U23 Worlds explaining to my teachers why I’d be missing two weeks of their class.

    The hardest workout I did in the last training year to prepare for this was bounding intervals with my team and coach Jan.

    This is my second time in Switzerland and third time racing internationally, and so far it’s been grand.

    One difference I’ve noticed between Switzerland and the U.S. are the duvets.

    Skiing and racing in the Alps is picturesque. Usually racing at altitude is tough for me because I live at sea level. There are beautiful mountains around where I live.

    One of the things I’m most excited about for Junior/U23 Worlds in Goms are the challenging courses on real snow.

    One race I’m especially targeting there is the skiathlon.

    I really hope I can chat/make friends with someone from Norway and ask them to adopt me.

    My favorite thing at the breakfast where we are staying is the bread.

    Fondue is not my favorite. The cheese here is authentic. And the chocolate comes in huge bars.

    If I had a totally free day here and didn’t have to worry about race fitness or training, I’d spend it starting my homework.

    The best way to follow me on social media is on Instagram @molly.gellert.”

  • Under 23 Questions: Alexandra Racine

    Under 23 Questions: Alexandra Racine

    Alexandra Racine (Club de ski du Mont Orford) having fun in Praz-de-Lys, France, last month before 2018 Junior World Championships in Switzerland. (Photo: Catherine Reed-Métayer)

     

    In an effort to showcase the North Americans who competed at last week’s International Ski Federation (FIS) 2018 Nordic Junior/U23 World Championships in Goms, Switzerland, we asked those qualifying athletes several questions about themselves — actually, we had them fill in the blanks. Here we have 18-year-old Alexandra Racine, of the Club de ski du Mont Orford, who represented Canada at her first Junior Worlds. 

    Last week in Goms, Racine raced to 51st in the 10 k skiathlon and 69th in the freestyle sprint.

    ***

    “My full name is Alexandra, but you can call me Rex.

    I was born and raised in Montreal, Quebec, and I learned to ski at 11 years old.

    Alexandra Racine (Club de ski du Mont Orford) racing at last month’s NorAm Junior Worlds trials at Mont Saint-Anne in Quebec. (Photo: Michèle Carrière)

    I spent the time between Mont Sainte-Anne trials and Junior/U23 Worlds in Praz-de-Lys, France, eating cheese and shredding the alpine tracks.

    The hardest workout I did in the last training year to prepare for this was the 10-minute Poma ride and 5-minute downhill with my Canadian friends.

    This is my first time in Switzerland and first time racing internationally, and so far it’s been a whole new experience.

    One difference I’ve noticed between Switzerland and Canada is that having four official languages is a lot more confusing than having only two.

    Skiing and racing in the Alps is pretty dang hard but also very beautiful. Usually racing at altitude is not that good for me because the air is less thick than back home. There are (blank) mountains around where I live.

    One of the things I’m most excited about for Junior/U23 Worlds in Goms is getting to wear the Canadian suit in races.

    One race I’m especially targeting there is the 6 a.m. warm-up jog.

    I really hope I can chat/make friends with someone from Russia and ask them if they miss the Kobaldof’s sauna (with Gilles as the sauna master).

    My favorite thing at the breakfast where we are staying is the mini breakfast sausages.(But really I’m missing Loïc’s breakfasts at Le Taconet.)

    Fondue is mysterious. The cheese here is smelly but fancy. And the chocolate is my favorite thing to buy.

    If I had a totally free day here and didn’t have to worry about race fitness or training, I’d spend it in the mountains, with skis on my feet.

    The best way to follow me on social media is on Instagram @alexeroot.”

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BeqxNGCliCJ/?taken-by=alexeroot

  • Under 23 Questions: Tucker Hoefler

    Under 23 Questions: Tucker Hoefler

    Tucker Hoefler (Park City Ski & Snowboard) jumping in Planica, Slovenia. (Photo: Ben Loomis)

    In an effort to showcase the North Americans who competed at last week’s 2018 Nordic Combined Junior World Championships in Kandersteg, Switzerland, we asked those qualifying athletes several questions about themselves — actually, we had them fill in the blanks. Here we have 19-year-old Tucker Hoefler, of Park City Ski and Snowboard, who represented the U.S. at his second Junior Worlds. 

    This week in Kandersteg, Hoefler placed 51st and 55th in two individual competitions and seventh in the team event. 

    ***

    “My full name is Tucker Greer Hoefler, but you can call me jediwarrior27.

    I was born and raised in Burlington, Vermont, and I learned to ski in the womb.

    Tucker Hoefler (Park City Ski & Snowboard) racing to 41st at the Nordic Combined Continental Cup in December in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. (Photo: Ben Pieper)

    I spent the time between U.S. Olympic team trials in Park City and Junior Worlds living in snowless misery, then making some powder turns and training in Oberstdorf, Germany.

    My favorite workout I did in the last training year to prepare for this was ski mountaineering in the Cascades.

    This is my second time in Switzerland and ninth time racing internationally, and so far it’s been brutally realistic.

    One difference I’ve noticed between Switzerland and the U.S. is the lack of political stupidity.

    Skiing and racing in the Alps is a lot more scenic than Park City. Usually racing at altitude is fine for me, however, the Salt Lake City air quality is what you have to watch out for. There are perky mountains where I live.

    One of the things I’m most excited about for Junior Worlds in Kandersteg is to see what a decent amount of snowpack looks like again.

    One race I’m especially targeting there is the nordic combined 5 k.

    I really hope I can chat/make friends with someone nice and ask them their favorite color.

    My favorite thing at the breakfast where we are staying is the Vermont Maple Syrup I brought.

    Fondue is dangerous. The cheese here is almost as good as cheddar. And the chocolate is best when you steal it from your team.

    If I had a totally free day here and didn’t have to worry about race fitness or training, I’d spend it grazing the cattle and milking the cows.

    The best way to follow me on social media is on Instagram is @tuckerhoefler.”

  • Under 23 Questions: Luke Jager

    Under 23 Questions: Luke Jager

    The U.S. men’s silver-medal relay on Saturday at 2018 Junior World Championships in Goms, Switzerland, with (from left to right) Luke Jager, Hunter Wonders, Gus Schumacher, and Ben Ogden. (Photo: Julia Kern)

    In an effort to showcase the North Americans competing at this week’s International Ski Federation (FIS) 2018 Nordic Junior/U23 World Championships in Goms, Switzerland, we asked those qualifying athletes several questions about themselves — actually, we had them fill in the blanks. Here we have 18-year-old Luke Jager, of Alaska Pacific University (APU), who’s representing the U.S. at his first Junior Worlds. 

    Jager started his week by racing to 60th in the freestyle sprint then capped it off with a historic silver medal in the men’s 4 x 5 k relay on Saturday in Goms.

    ***

    “My full name is Luke Jager, but you can call me Gus Schumacher.

    I was born in Redding, California, and raised in Anchorage, Alaska, and I learned to ski at Anchorage Junior Nordic League.

    I spent the time between US. nationals and Junior/U23 Worlds reminiscing about beating Gus Schumacher at the season opener middle school race in 8th grade.

    The funnest workout I did in the last training years to prepare for this was easy 30-minute shakeout run/walk with my thoughts.

    Luke Jager (Alaska Pacific University) during a training day in Goms, Switzerland. (Courtesy photo)

    This is my first time in Switzerland and second time racing internationally, and so far it’s been transcendent.

    One difference I’ve noticed between Switzerland and the U.S. is a lot less freedom.

    Skiing and racing in the Alps is hard. Usually racing at altitude is hard for me because here is less air. There are hella mountains around where I live.

    One of the things I’m most excited about for Junior/U23 Worlds in Goms is the gentle kiss of the swiss sun on my soft, tender skin.

    One race I’m especially targeting there is junior men’s relay.

    I really hope I can chat/make friends with someone from Alaska and ask them what it’s like there.

    My favorite thing at the breakfast where we are staying is orange mango juice. Mom if you’re reading this please buy some thank you love you.

    Fondue is yellow. The cheese here is also yellow. And the chocolate is not yellow.

    If I had a totally free day here and didn’t have to worry about race fitness or training, I’d spend it in bed Snapchatting Cole Morgan.

    The best way to follow me on social media is on Instagram @lukejageryo.”

    The U.S. men’s team tasting their silver medals after placing second in the 4 x 5 k relay on Saturday at 2018 Junior World Championships in Goms, Switzerland. (Photo: Julia Kern)
  • Under 23 Questions: Stephen Schumann

    Under 23 Questions: Stephen Schumann

    Stephen Schumann (U.S. Nordic Combined) jumping in Oberstdorf, Germany, in September 2016. (Photo: Romina Eggert)

    In an effort to showcase the North Americans competing at this week’s 2018 Nordic Combined Junior World Championships in Kandersteg, Switzerland, we asked those qualifying athletes several questions about themselves — actually, we had them fill in the blanks. Here we have 17-year-old Stephen Schumann, of the U.S. Nordic Combined Team, who represented the U.S. at his third Junior Worlds. 

    This week in Kandersteg, Schumann placed 13th and 18th in two individual competitions and seventh in the team event. 

    ***

    “My full name is Stephen Schumann, but you can call me Skunk.

    I was born and raised in Park City, Utah, and I learned to ski at Park City Ski and Snowboard.

    Stephen Schumann (U.S. Nordic Combined) racing at a World Cup last season in Oslo, Norway. (Photo: Sandra Volk)

    I spent the time between U.S. Olympic team trials in Park City and Junior Worlds in Europe competing in Continental Cup and World Cup races.

    The hardest workout I did in the last training year to prepare for this was 10×8 minute intervals with my whole team.

    This is my second time in Switzerland and 11th time racing internationally, and so far it’s been awesome with a very high level of competition.

    One difference I’ve noticed between Switzerland and the U.S. is that it is different.

    Skiing and racing in the Alps is pretty cool because of the overall scenery. Usually racing at altitude is very helpful for me because I grew up at high elevation in Utah. There are mountains around where I live.

    One of the things I’m most excited about for Junior Worlds in Kandersteg is eating Swiss food.

    One race I’m especially targeting there is the 10 k individual.

    I really hope I can chat/make friends with someone from the Swedish women’s cross country team and ask them for Stina’s Snapchat. Too bad they are all in Goms.

    My favorite thing at the breakfast where we are staying is the coffee.

    Fondue is melted cheese. The cheese here is not melted fondue. And the chocolate is not made of cheese.

    If I had a totally free day here and didn’t have to worry about race fitness or training, I’d wake up eat drink some coffee play some 2K, go to the top of a mountain, eat some lunch, take a shower, then eat some dinner and sleep.

    The best way to follow me on social media is on Instagram @stephen_schumann.”

  • Under 23 Questions: Ian Torchia

    Under 23 Questions: Ian Torchia

    Ian Torchia (NMU/USST) crust cruising with Bernie Nelson (not shown) their second day in Goms, Switzerland. (Photo: Bernie Nelson)

    In an effort to showcase the North Americans competing at this week’s International Ski Federation (FIS) 2018 Nordic Junior/U23 World Championships in Goms, Switzerland, we asked those qualifying athletes several questions about themselves — actually, we had them fill in the blanks. Here we have 21-year-old Ian Torchia, of Northern Michigan University (NMU) and the U.S. Ski Team D-team, who’s representing the U.S. at his first U23 Worlds. 

    On Friday, Torchia placed 27th in the 30 k skiathlon for his best finish of the week after finishing 32nd in the 15 k classic on Wednesday in Goms.

    ***

    “My full name is Ian Michael Torchia, but you can call me Torch.

    I was born and raised in Rochester, Minnesota, and I learned to ski at Eastwood Golf Course.

    I spent the time between U.S. nationals and Junior/U23 Worlds skiing and sleeping.

    Ian Torchia (l) follows Kris Freeman on a downhill during the men’s 30-kilometer classic mass start at the 2018 U.S. Cross Country Championships in Anchorage, Alaska. Torchia went on to place 12th.

    The dumbest workout I did in the last training year to prepare for this was a 6 hour OD with me, myself, and I.

    This is my first time in Switzerland and third time racing internationally, and so far it’s been A1.

    One difference I’ve noticed between Switzerland and the U.S. is lack of directions.

    Skiing and racing in the Alps is beautiful. Usually racing at altitude is great for me because I’m a small guy. There are huge mountains around where I live (Marquette Mountain, Sugarloaf, Hogsback).

    One of the things I’m most excited about for Junior/U23 Worlds in Goms is racing Russians.

    One race I’m especially targeting there is 30 k skiathlon.

    I really hope I can chat/make friends with someone from USA and ask them to steal Zak Ketterson’s white noise machine so I can sleep in silent peace.

    My favorite thing at the breakfast where we are staying is granola, also for lunch and dinner.

    Fondue is unavailable. The cheese here is Le Gruyere. And the chocolate is for my girlfriend.

    If I had a totally free day here and didn’t have to worry about race fitness or training, I’d spend it crust cruising with Bernie Nelson.

    The best way to follow me on social media is on Instagram @fullytorched.”

    Ian Torchia (NMU/USST) during a crust cruise in Goms, Switzerland. Enough snow to ski up on a house! (Photo: Bernie Nelson)
  • Under 23 Questions: Lydia Blanchet

    Under 23 Questions: Lydia Blanchet

    Lydia Blanchet (Dartmouth Ski Team) during the 10 k freestyle at 2018 US nationals last month in Anchorage, Alaska. (Photo: Betsy Arnold)

    In an effort to showcase the North Americans competing at this week’s International Ski Federation (FIS) 2018 Nordic Junior/U23 World Championships in Goms, Switzerland, we asked those qualifying athletes several questions about themselves — actually, we had them fill in the blanks. Here we have 20-year-old Lydia Blanchet, of the Dartmouth Ski Team, who’s representing the U.S. at her first U23 Worlds. 

    Blanchet notched a top 30 this week in the 10 k classic, where she finished 30th, and placed 32nd in the freestyle sprint and 38th in the 15 k skiathlon in Goms.

    ***

    “My full name is Lydia Anne Blanchet, but you can call me Lydia Anne Blanchet.

    I was born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska, and I learned to ski with the Anchorage Junior Nordic League at Kincaid Park, and later with APU.

    I spent the time between U.S. nationals and Junior/U23 Worlds catching up with work from the first week of classes and getting settled in my new apartment.

    The hardest and coolest workout I did in the last training year to prepare for this was running the 22 miles from the rim of the Grand Canyon to the Colorado River and back with my best friend and teammate Taryn Hunt-Smith this fall on our geology field program.

    Lydia Blanchet (Dartmouth Ski Team) on the Athabasca Glacier in Banff this past September on a Dartmouth geology field program. (Photo: Laura Hutchinson)

    This is my first time in Switzerland and first time racing internationally, and so far it’s been a dream!

    One difference I’ve noticed between Switzerland and the U.S. is the toilet flushers.

    Skiing and racing in the Alps is like skiing in a story book. Usually racing at altitude is painful for me because I’m a sea level girl through and through. There are humongous, beautiful mountains around where I live, but I train by the ocean!

    One of the things I’m most excited about for Junior/U23 Worlds in Goms is getting to meet skiers from every corner of the world.

    One race I’m especially targeting there is the skiathlon, but I’m excited for all of them.

    I really hope I can chat/make friends with someone from Kazakhstan and ask them if they really are the greatest exporters of potassium.

    My favorite thing at the breakfast where we are staying are croissants with jam and brie.

    Fondue is what my family used to eat on New Year’s. The cheese here is enough to make me move to Switzerland. And the chocolate is enough to make me stay for the rest of my life.

    If I had a totally free day here and didn’t have to worry about race fitness or training, I’d spend it doing a 45 minute sled run down an alpine resort—which I did with my dad on Tuesday!

    The best way to follow me on social media is on Instagram @blanchetlydia.”

    Lydia Blanchet (Dartmouth Ski Team) getting some air at the top of the tram by the U.S. team’s hotel in Goms, Switzerland. (Photo: Thomas O’Harra)

  • Under 23 Questions: Natalie Hynes

    Canada’s Natalie Hynes (University of Alaska Anchorage Ski Team) racing in women’s classic sprint qualifier at 2017 Junior World Championships at Soldier Hollow in Midway, Utah. She placed 42nd. (Photo: FlyingPointRoad.com)

    In an effort to showcase the North Americans competing at this week’s International Ski Federation (FIS) 2018 Nordic Junior/U23 World Championships in Goms, Switzerland, we asked those qualifying athletes several questions about themselves — actually, we had them fill in the blanks. Here we have 20-year-old Natalie Hynes, of the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) Ski Team and the Yukon Ski Team, who’s representing the U.S. at her third Junior Worlds. 

    On Thursday, Hynes placed 24th in the 10 k skiathlon for her career-best result at Junior Worlds. 

    ***

    Young skiers came from all over the country to represent their clubs and test their progress. Whitehorse's Natalie Hynes is following the tracks of Emily Nishikawa and Dahria Beatty. (Photo: W. James MacLean)
    Natalie Hynes (Yukon Ski Team/University of Alaska Anchorage) racing at 2017 Canadian Ski Nationals last March. (Photo: W. James MacLean)

    “My full name is Natalie Hynes, but you can call me Hey You.

    I was born and raised in the Yukon, and I learned to ski at the Mt. Mac Ski Trails.

    I spent the time between Mont Sainte-Anne trials and Junior/U23 Worlds racing in West Yellowstone.

    The most scenic workout I did in the last training year to prepare for this was mountain biking in the Wheaton River Valley with my border collie.

    This is my first time in Switzerland and my third time racing internationally, and so far it’s been very snowy.

    One difference I’ve noticed between Switzerland and Canada is the length of the meals.

    Skiing and racing in the Alps is so beautiful. Usually racing at altitude is hard for me because there is not enough air to share with all the other competitors. There are so many incredible mountains around where I live.

    One of the things I’m most excited about for Junior/U23 Worlds in Goms is gaining experience racing internationally.

    One race I’m especially targeting there is the skiathlon.

    I really hope I can chat/make friends with someone from Norway and ask them if they know my Norwegian teammate, Marte.

    My favorite thing at the breakfast where we are staying are the kiwis.

    Fondue is probably better here than in Canada but I haven’t had the chance to try it. The cheese here is strong. And the chocolate is so delicious.

    If I had a totally free day here and didn’t have to worry about race fitness or training, I’d spend it taste testing Swiss chocolate.

    The best way to follow me on social media is on Instagram @natalie.heinz.”