Skylar Patten

Hometown: Park City, Utah

College: Michigan Tech

Club: Park City Ski and Snow Board

Follow on: instagram

Why Team Birkie?

I chose Team Birkie because of the incredible support they provide. From fun camps to the roller ski treadmill to physiology testing, Team Birkie offers so many resources to help their athletes reach their full potential. I’ve also spent the last five years in the Midwest, and it has really grown on me.

How did you get into skiing?

I’ve been on alpine and nordic skis since I was two years old, but I didn’t truly enjoy nordic skiing until I moved from Salt Lake City to Park City at age 12. That move also shifted my focus from playing soccer to mountain bike racing, which naturally led me to cross-country ski racing in the winter. I pursued both sports for several years, but eventually realized I needed to specialize in one to be truly competitive. I found that I enjoyed the atmosphere and community of skiing more, so I stopped racing mountain bikes and committed fully to ski racing.

Favorite skiing memory?

My favorite skiing memory is finishing 4th at Senior Nationals on my college’s home course. What made it truly special was celebrating with my teammates after one of my best races ever, on my favorite course, and at home.

Favorite workout?

My favorite workout has 5-6x10 min l3 skate or classic on snow on a race course working transitions.

What keeps you motivated?

What keeps me motivated is seeing the progress that comes from training. It’s incredibly rewarding to watch my fitness improve over weeks, months, and years.