Taking stock, looking forward

Beginning of Story Content

Kelly VanderBeek is looking ahead to a return to competitive alpine skiing next season. (Giovanni Auletta/Associated Press)

For many people, the time for reflection, goal setting and taking stock usually happens when they're ringing in the New Year. But for ski racers, that time is now.

When the snow starts to melt, the national championships have wrapped up, and thoughts of mountain biking return, we take a moment to reflect. Where are we now? What have we accomplished? Where are we heading and how do we get there?  

Like my teammates, I'm now taking stock as I connect with my association and coaching staff to make plans for the coming year. The big picture is still the 2014 Olympics in Sochi, but for now I'm continuing to rebuild physically.

My goal is to once again have a singular focus in my life: going fast down the hill.

I'm now the strongest mentally that I've ever been, and I have the injury to thank for helping me grow some thick calluses. This will serve me well when I return to the hill.  

Looking ahead, I know my road is going to be challenging and my focus will have to remain on key elements throughout the process.

Surrounded by an incredible medical staff and system, I feel confident I can achieve my goals. When I see Jan Hudec, an alpine star for Canada who's been riddled with injuries throughout his career, win his first national title at the age of 29 in giant slalom (not his best discipline), I know anything is possible.  

For now, I'm rebuilding my cardio base with hours on the bike and with repetitive muscle patterning exercises.

As always, recent experiences come into your psyche when taking stock. That being said, my recent trip to Newfoundland is having a profound effect on my current outlook.  

I just returned from a five-day trip to Newfoundland, where I met more of the extended family of the Teck mining company (an alpine sponsor) in Duck Pond. There, I saw the pride the people took in their work and in their beautiful land. I take inspiration from these people into what I do - passion and pride make for a powerful mixture with limitless possibility.

Looking towards next year, I feel confident and excited for what lays ahead.

End of Story Content

Back to accessibility links