American World Cups, and the end of the prep period

The prep is over, and we’re well into race season. After our South American trip, we took some time at home with friends and family before joining the World Cup speed team in Austria. That was a surreal experience for me—suddenly I was training, eating, and hanging out with the guys I’d watched on TV for so long. After two weeks in Austria, we headed back to the U.S. to train in Copper until the first races.

Warm temperatures made it tough to get quality training anywhere in the world, but we made the most of what we had in Copper. That’s also where I earned my first World Cup SG start.

People always talk about how different a World Cup race is—the cameras, the crowds, the pressure, the intensity. I’d say they’re right. For me, the biggest difference was the sheer energy: the 70 best guys in the world, all willing to risk everything and throw themselves down the mountain; the cameras following you; the kids at the bottom fired up to see their heroes. There’s no shortage of fuel for the mind. My focus had to be on managing those feelings, compartmentalizing, and zeroing in on the skiing itself.

I’m proud of my attitude and my skiing that day. I made some mistakes, but I was able to ski freely despite the pressure, and the intensity of the day never became a negative factor. I truly was able to stand in the start with a clear mind, free from overwhelming expectation other than the understanding that I would give it my best. Crossing the finish line felt like a weight lifted off my shoulders—proof that I can hang with these guys. Even though I finished 51st, I truly believe I belong on the World Cup.

Looking ahead, we’ll race some NORAMs and then head back to Europe for what will be a fluid schedule shaped by results, all driven by my goal to develop into the best skier I can be.

I’m grateful that my first World Cup race happened in my home state of Colorado, and to all my friends, family, and supporters who showed up. I really felt the love that day, and I appreciate all of you.

—Tanner