From a Young U.S. Star to the Slovenian Team: Lila Lapanja’s Journey on the Skiing Is Believing Podcast

Featured Image: Lila Lapanja racing in a World Cup. Credit: GEPA

In the latest episode of the Skiing is Believing podcast, Alan and Matt had the opportunity to chat with the newest member of the Slovenian Women’s Ski Team, Lila Lapanja.

Lapanja recounted her introduction to alpine skiing during her upbringing in the Lake Tahoe region. She credited her father, who competed in the speed events at the 1990 World Junior Championships representing Yugoslavia, as a significant influence. She explained to Alan and Matt that her affection for the mountains blossomed even before she fully embraced the thrill of ski racing.

Then, she talked about her experience from her time with the Stifel US Ski Team, which she joined at age 16 in 2011. Lila spent a total of six years with the Stifel US Ski Team before becoming an independent racer for the last few seasons. Lapanja told Matt and Alan how the early arrival of this opportunity opened many doors for an ambitious teenager and how she looks back now with no regrets from her early days as a professional.

This, however, led her to the decision to join the Slovenian Ski Team, a decision she took in June of this year. She spoke about the thinking behind the nationality switch, following in the footsteps of Lucas Braathen and Marcel Hirscher ahead of the 2024/25 campaign. Lila also shared the training preparation that she has begun on the slalom team with Ana Bucik, Neja Dvornik, and Andreja Slokar.

In conclusion, Alan referenced a quote that Lila prominently features on the homepage of her website, stating, “Life is a gift; how you live it is your ‘thank-you note.’” This statement highlights Lapanja’s character and her deep appreciation for cherishing every moment in the sport she is passionate about.

If you enjoyed reading this article, we hope you can tune in to listen. You can visit the Skiing is Believing podcast’s Instagram or YouTube channel, where they have a catalog of interviews recorded over the last eight months. Don’t hesitate to contact the Skiing is Believing podcast either via mattgarcka.skiingisbelievingpodcast@gmail.com, with feedback, advice, or improvements.