“I loved the adrenaline rush I got from skiing and that in freestyle there was always something to learn and that there were no rules.”

Team GB freestyle skier Rowan Cheshire burst onto the international scene in 2014, when she became the first British woman to win a Halfpipe Gold medal at World Cup level at only 18 years old. In the process, she quickly established herself as one of the most exciting prospects across all Winter sport. Still only 21, Rowan is widely regarded to be the future face of British Winter Sport, as she looks to become the first British skier ever to win a medal at the Winter Olympics.

Since making history as a teenager, Rowan has firmly established herself as Britain’s number 1 halfpipe skier, competing on the international circuit and was a strong medal contender for the Winter Olympics in Sochi 2014. However, an unfortunate fall during training just a few days before left her with a concussion and she was forced to retire from the competition.  This setback only made Rowan more determined to achieve her goal and since then, after a brief stint working as a model, she has continued to compete on the international circuit and achieved multiple top 4 finishes. Rowan qualified for the Pyeongchang 2018 Winter Olympic Games where she qualified for the halfpipe final. With a strong performance, Rowan placed 7th in the 2018 Winter Olympic halfpipe final.

When and where did you first go skiing?

Rowan: I first skied on a dry slope in Stoke on Trent when I was 10 years old. My first skiing on snow was in Whistler, Canada.

Why did you fall in love with skiing?

Rowan: I loved the adrenaline rush I got from it and that in freestyle there was always something to learn and that there were no rules.

Tell us about your best ski memory?

Rowan: It’s more of a funny memory but I’ll always remember the time, myself and the team were in Switzerland years ago. There had been a big dumping of snow and we all decided to go powder skiing (which I sucked at). I was falling every 5 minutes and one of those times I got completely buried in the snow, my team mates were none the wiser and skied right over me, and only realised when I let out a little squeal. Everyone was very amused.

What are your top tips for getting fit before a ski trip to avoid injury?

Rowan: Focus on doing knee stability and balance exercises, as well as trying to build up strength. This will help protect the knee joints and prevent injury.

Are you already thinking about the Beijing Olympics, or too soon?

Rowan: I have my goal to win a medal at the Beijing Olympics but I’m taking it season by season and focusing on my progression and doing well in the world cups and championships, to get me closer to that Olympic dream.

How has skiing changed your life?

Rowan: I’ve learnt a lot from skiing. It’s made me much more confident person and has given amazing opportunities and opened a lot of doors.