Alistair Garland, NZ Junior Freeride Team member

Name: Alistair Garland

Age: 16

Home mountain: Treble Cone

Sponsors: Smith Optics, Flylow Gear, K2 Skis, The Waxroom, Magic Hands Massage

Earliest ski memory: I have some good memories of getting into the gates as a kid, learning how to turn my skis on the super fresh mornings at Les Grands Montets in Chamonix.

Favourite place to shred: My favourite spot to ski must be Les Grands Montets, I’ve spent a lot of time at this ski field, it has such a massive area with endless terrain. It’s where my love for skiing began.

Favourite place you skied with the NZ Junior Freeride team: I had a blast checking out Vallnord-Arcalis in Andorra, we had some great snow which probably influenced my love for the place! It’s a playground for freeride skiers, big sends and some cool techy areas.

How do you train for freeriding off the snow: Off snow I like to keep active, getting out on the bike on all the trails around Wanaka to keep my fitness up. I also enjoy spending time on the super tramp and in the gym at Snow Sports NZ.

Do you have a pre-run ritual: Before dropping in to a line I like to clear my mind fully, I find it easy to do this by looking at the surrounding mountains. Music also helps with my nerves. I keep the hype low until a few minutes before starting my run, then I’ll crank up the volume and jump around to get the blood flowing.

Favourite things to do on a down day: On a down day I like to go for a skate at the Wanaka skatepark. It’s real fun learning new tricks and watching my mates shred the concrete.

Piece of advice for up and coming juniors: Keep it fun, I think that freeride skiing is about showing creativity, adapt your line choices to your style of riding. Respect the mountains, they can be very dangerous so build your knowledge and skill set over time.

Who is your idol or hero: Glenn Plake, ski legend.

Favourite food: Pizza for sure.

Pets: 2 dogs, Devon and Chorus.

Something people mightn’t know about you: I’m French! I was born in Chamonix and spent 11 years over there. This is one of many reasons I really enjoy getting back there, catching up with old mates and exploring some of my favourite spots.