Meet Millie Wilkinson: UK Freestyle Skier
Have you met the lovely Millie Wilkinson? She is a 13-year-old British Freestyle Skier and Ski Olympic are proud to be a sponsor of this bright, young star for the 2015-16 ski season.
Millie has had a busy year so far. Last week she pulled some great moves at the JibWorx National Rail Jam Series, placing 1st in the U16s category and 3rd overall. Millie has also entered this year’s Britain’s Got Skiers competition and we wish her all the best! Despite her hectic schedule keeping up with all these awards and competitions, she had a bit of time to sit down and tell us about what life is like for one of Britain’s rising stars.
How did you first get into skiing?
I first got into skiing on a family trip to Breckenridge when I was 4 years old. My dad took me on the slopes and when I skied down with him I absolutely loved it and took to it like a "duck to water".
Who has been your biggest inspiration in the sport?
My biggest inspiration would have to be Katie and Molly Summerhayes. I have skied with them most weeks since I was 7 years old. They are both world class and Olympic skiers and both still ski with me when they are home in the UK at our local slopes. They are both lovely, inspirational friends.
What’s your favourite memory of skiing?
I have lots of lovely memories with my family and other England Team members. I would have to say you can’t beat the memory of landing a new trick. That feeling is amazing and I can’t stop smiling for hours afterwards.
How do you unwind after a long day on the slopes?
I love to unwind by watching a favourite movie and a piece of chocolate cake and a lovely cup of hot chocolate. I do like a cheeky dance at the La Folie Douce too shhh ……. :)
What is the one trick that you would absolutely love to master?
I would love to master Truck Drivers within a 360 (which is holding the tips of your skis, straight out in front of you, i.e. like a truck driver would hold a steering wheel, whilst doing a 360 degree spin).
What advice would you give to people looking forward to their first skiing holiday?
The best piece of advice I would give is learn how to ski, BEFORE you go - at least 10 lessons - doesn’t have to be expensive - learn on a dry slope (doesn’t have to an expensive ski dome), get to a good level before you go to the mountains! DO NOT buy fashion ski gear - buy functional ski gear, something that will be practical and keep you warm and dry on the slopes.
What are your aspirations for the future?
I would love to represent our country at the highest level - hopefully at XGames or the Olympics.
What’s the best ski resort you have visited?
I love Breckenridge, Colorado! However, you don’t need to travel to the States for good skiing. You would be hard pushed to beat a ski holiday in the Three Valleys in France. Courchevel is one of my favourites!
Check out Millie’s website here, and watch her Britain’s Got Skiers entry below. If you’re interested in visiting the Three Valleys, take a look at our ski chalets in Courchevel.
BRITAINS GOT SKIERS 2015 - Smiles & Slo-Mo's - Millie Wilkinson Age 13 from Millie Wilkinson on Vimeo.