The New Year is a time to reflect on our last year’s highlights and struggles; it’s also the time to reflect on how best to move forward with optimism.
That’s precisely how Ski Cross champion Kris Mahler is approaching his 2024, with renewed vigour even after suffering a broken neck in a December 12 race on the slopes of Arosa, Switzerland.
Ski Cross is a timed-race ski competition that incorporates terrain features traditionally found in freestyle skiing. It includes big-air jumps and high-banked turns and involves more than one skier racing down the course.
Poor weather conditions and a lack of grooming on the ski course contributed to Mahler’s spectacular crash.
If you want to see a day in the life of a ski cross racer, check out this video.
Back Home and Working Hard
Many people would respond to a major injury by feeling sorry for themself. Not Kris Mahler.
Undeterred and ready to get back into training, Kris Mahler is back in Canmore, spending time in the gym, working out his lower body while his neck heals in a neck brace.
As frustrating as it might be to Kris to have his ski season cut short, he is already sending out messages of support to others who are struggling with issues.
A recent Instagram post is a case in point; “Get out of the house! With an injury, it’s easy to get caught in the rut of all the pain and healing. While it’s very important to prioritize proper care, having activities that get you out of the house within your capabilities is so important.”
Mahler’s response to an injury is not only inspiring, it’s fully in character for who Mahler is.
Ski Fast, Drive Slow
When he’s not going head-to-head against the best skiers in the world, the three-time World Cup medallist and national champion is also a personal trainer and a life coach for other people.
He also spends his summers living the ‘van life,’ travelling the country in his 1986 Westfalia Syncro van named “Pugsley.”
Mahler embraces the simplicity and freedom of van life, finding peace and focus as he travels to different training locations. He is never in a hurry, and the destination is not the endpoint.
It’s the journey that motivates him, hence his mantra, “Ski fast, drive slow.”
For Mahler, his van is more than transportation—it symbolizes his commitment to building his brand and creating a lasting legacy.
His unwavering dedication to self-improvement positions him as a leader for future athletes and a source of inspiration for those chasing their dreams.
His most recent Instagram post sums up his positive attitude:
“It’s crazy how many things we accomplish in just 1 year. I had so many amazing experiences from visiting South Africa, Hawaii, Chile, and Brazil. Achieving huge personal records in the gym and pushing limits I never thought possible. No revisions are needed on this chapter of life! Not even that little part about breaking my neck. I’m sure you have some wonderful learning for me hidden somewhere in the next chapter: 2024!”
Future Plans
Kris Mahler is more than a top-ranked male ski cross racer; he’s a role model, mentor, and embodiment of what can be accomplished with dedication, perseverance, and embracing unconventional lifestyles.
While a broken neck temporarily paused Mahler’s ski season, he remains focused on achieving his long-time goal–victory at the 2026 Olympics.
As Kris’s career accelerates, excitement builds around his potential as both an outstanding athlete and a global ambassador for sports.
His unique integration of van life into his career adds an intriguing aspect to his story, highlighting his ability to maintain balance and find inspiration both in and out of sports.
His van is not just a vehicle but a mobile haven, symbolizing adventure, passion, and a relentless drive for excellence.
Thank you, Kris, for your continued inspiration and for being our Alberta hero!
