From First Tracks to Deep Passion: My Unique Skiing Journey

I’ve been skiing since the age of four, which I share in common with many advanced and professional skiers. However, my journey on the slopes has taken a unique path. Despite my many years of skiing, there are facets of my technique that may never reach a certain proficiency.

My parents, refugees from Iran, were newcomers to the world of skiing in the 90s. Eager to assimilate into Canadian culture, they embraced the local customs, which included introducing my sister and me to skiing. My father, at 40, and I embarked on this adventure together, frequenting Ski Vorlage, a family-friendly hill in Ottawa, whenever we had the chance. In my small elementary school, I considered myself an incredible skier during our night skiing trips and ski field trips. Little did I realize, this was hardly a fair comparison given the small class size and the background of my peers, many of whom were children of diplomats, immigrants and refugees themselves.

The reality of my skiing skills hit me in grade 9 when I joined my new high school’s racing team. Here, I was surrounded by students whose parents were well-versed in the ski racing culture. These kids were equipped with three types of skis for different slalom events, team backpacks, specialized gear, and a wealth of experience. My first practice was a wake-up call; my skills were not as advanced as I had thought.

Suddenly, I found myself as the only Iranian on a team dominated by Canadians with a lifelong involvement in ski racing. The challenge to catch up and learn this entirely new aspect of skiing was daunting but motivating. My teammates, well-acquainted with slalom and giant slalom, provided constructive criticism and guidance on my technique and helped me navigate the world of ski gear – a world I quickly realized was prohibitively expensive.

Though I have made significant progress since joining the racing team, I acknowledge there’s a level of carving skill that seems just out of reach for me. I still hold a slight resentment towards my parents for not introducing me to ski racing earlier, though I understand their perspective completely as newcomers to Canada. Skiing in Iran, despite its stunning mountains and backcountry opportunities, does not revolve around downhill skiing.

This understanding drives me to ski with those more skilled than I am, to make up for lost time, and to gain insight from lifelong racers. I am determined to introduce my future children to ski racing early, hoping they will surpass my skills.

I am grateful to my father for introducing me to skiing. It was a sport and culture foreign to him, yet it gave me a sense of belonging. I’ve participated in various sports throughout my life, but downhill skiing is the one that resonates with me on a deeper level. It’s a connection to nature, an adrenaline rush, a break from screens, a breath of fresh air, and a form of meditation all in one.

Skiing is my passion and my addiction, and I am determined to make it a central part of my life’s journey.