Stifel U.S. Ski Team, Birds of Prey Press Conference: Photo Rick Bachand
Vonn: Always a Teammate
Sitting in a crowded room watching the U.S. women’s speed team at a press conference, it felt as if Lindsey Vonn had always been a part of the team. The energy was unified, with Vonn offering the wisdom of a veteran and the team embracing her presence as if she had never left. Their interaction was natural and complementary, reflecting a deep sense of camaraderie and mutual respect.
“It’s been amazing so far,” Vonn exclaimed, expressing her enthusiasm about working with her teammates. She talked about her experience with each of them and added: “I’ve missed being on this team, I’ve missed having teammates, and I’ve missed just talking about ski racing and figuring out how to be fast.” Eager to share her experience and knowledge with the team, Vonn remarked, “I feel like they’re going to be fast with or without me, but hopefully, I can give them a little bit of an extra push.”
Teammates Have High Praise for Vonn
Jacqui Wiles reflected on her early career, always striving to learn from Lindsey Vonn’s technique and racing style and how she had been a mentor to her. Wiles expressed her enthusiasm about having Vonn as a teammate: “It’s been amazing to see her already integrating back into our group. On the hill, she’s already looking at different lines of inspection and sending us messages to help us out.” Wiles highlighted the special moment for the team, saying, “It’s a super special moment for our team right now. Having the experience and knowledge that she does, along with the passion she’s exuding, is really special for all of us.”
A Personal Touch at Copper Mountain
Adding to the chorus of admiration, Lauren Macuga shared her personal experience with Vonn while training at Copper Mountain. “She reached out to me and told me she liked my skiing, and it’s nice to hear that.” Macuga continued, “It’s been phenomenal watching her ski, and I don’t know if you guys have seen it, but she’s still very good. I was admiring your tucking,” Macuga quipped.
Similarly, Wright commented that although she was never officially a teammate of Lindsey Vonn’s, but Vonn reached out to her when she first joined the circuit. “I came from being an independent athlete and felt like I didn’t know what I was doing, so she was someone who reached out to me, was willing to look at video, talk equipment, and anything and everything.” Now that Vonn and Wright are officially teammates, Wright noted that it was exciting to have one of the “greatest of all times” out there, saying, “Just to have her be who she is and someone so pure and willing to help, I think is really special for all of us.”
The U.S. women’s speed team races at Beaver Creek this weekend with the downhill and super-G on tap. Vonn officially kicks out of the gate next week in St. Moritz.
About the Author: Rick Bachand
