Hey everyone! Austin Becker here, host of the Falling Off the Floor podcast. This week, I had the incredible opportunity to sit down with Connery Lundin, a true legend in the big mountain skiing scene from Palisades Tahoe, California. Our chat was a deep dive into what it takes to be a professional skier, the evolution of the sport, and some really honest talk about the life of a professional athlete and mental health.
Connery and I connected through the ski world, sharing roots in California skiing. Hearing his story, from the competitive circuit to navigating the complexities of a pro career, was truly inspiring. Let's get into some of the highlights from our conversation!
Connery and I bonded over our similar paths, both starting in ski racing. He's a classic "weekend warrior" from the Bay Area who moved to Palisades Tahoe at 16 to pursue ski racing. He quickly realized that the discipline and fundamentals learned in ski racing are incredibly valuable for tackling big mountains.
I can totally relate! Growing up in Southern California's Big Bear area, ski racing was my foundation too. When I transitioned into the freestyle scene after an injury, those race techniques surprisingly prepared me for the daunting world of big mountain skiing. It’s wild how those early skills can be so versatile later on!
Connery made a significant mark early in his career, winning the American Freeskiing World Tour in 2015. Back then, there were actually two separate global tours, but his victory was a huge stepping stone. He openly shared how that win became a pivotal moment, shaping the trajectory of his career as a big mountain skier.
This kind of early success often raises the question: What does it take to be a professional skier at that level? It's not just talent; it's dedication, intense training, and a willingness to push boundaries.
One of the most fascinating parts of our chat was discussing how the life of a professional athlete in skiing has drastically changed. Connery reflected on how when he started, success was measured by magazine features, major ski movie appearances (think MSP, TGR, Warren Miller), and competition wins.
