This first ski medal captures the exact moment skiing became something I truly loved. When I was seven, my dad enrolled me in the North Coast Ski Club, and my very first race—a giant slalom at Caberfae Peaks—felt terrifying in the best way. I remember standing at the top of the course, nervous and unsure, until my dad reassured me that I’d do great. When I finally pushed off and raced, I surprised myself by placing third. Holding that medal afterward was pure excitement, and all I wanted was to get back out on the snow.

Even though I eventually chose swimming as my main sport, my love for skiing never faded. That medal marks the beginning of a passion that followed me long after I stopped racing. Today, I’ve grown into park, big mountain, and backcountry skiing—new styles, new challenges, but the same joy I felt at seven. Every winter, I still look forward to being on the mountain, carving fresh snow, and creating more memories in a sport that has stayed with me through every stage of my life.