Margo McHugh's 2017-18 Ski Season

Hello my name is Margo McHugh and I’m 16 years old. I am writing this letter regarding my upcoming ski season. This year I am transitioning from being a U16 to a U19, with that being said I am now racing FIS (International Ski Federation). Basically, this is when ski racing really starts. My points and results from here on out count towards the rest of my future in ski racing and I am beyond stoked to embark on the incredible journey that lies ahead of me.

I have been skiing since before I could barely walk, and I began racing with Aspen Valley Ski and Snowboard Club at the age of nine. Since then, racing has proved to be my passion. The combination of the atmosphere and adrenaline skiing offers is an incomparable feeling to anything else, and it is where I am genuinely my most happiest.

Here is a general recap of my last season and where I stand as of now; I am currently ranked 1st in the nation in downhill for my birth year by over 30 points. I finished 8th place in the Overall SYNC Colorado Ski Cup Standings 2016-17 just behind the top five girls in the nation. The SYNC Cup is a series of races throughout the entire season. Based on results, you accumulate a certain amount of points each race, similar to the World Cup points system. Another huge highlight of my season was winning the Wilder Dwight Speed Series in Aspen within my age group (U16) by over a second both training runs as well as both race days. Not only did I win the overall for U16s, but my timing results placed me alongside the top FIS girls in the country. And just like that as the 2016-17 season ended, the 2017-18 season started. I traveled with my team to Mammoth, CA for two weeks in June to gain valuable time on snow during the Summer. The conditions were unreal for 65 degree weather in mid-June, and I was able to work closely with my new coaches on tactics and technique to get a head start on the season.

Since then, I have been training 5-6 days a week with my team and coaches, focusing on strength and conditioning, whether that’s in the gym or on a 14,000 ft peak it is a great factor into my performance on the snow. As beneficial and helpful as dryland training is, Summer ski camp was the highlight of my Summer and such an awesome experience. So awesome that I wish to endure on another ski trip this fall before the season gets kicked into full gear. From October 2nd-14th AVSC will be taking a group of FIS athletes to Saas Fee, Switzerland.  Any time on snow before the season begins is extremely valuable, and I want more than anything to be apart of this upcoming trip to further myself. Saas Fee is a beautiful place that offers great training. Going to Saas Fee will allow me the opportunity build off where I left off in Mammoth and to be ready for the early season. It’s all a process, and every piece and opportunity is a step in the right direction.

Going into this next season I feel more confident than ever. I’m extremely confident in my fitness, I am much stronger now from dryland. My goals for this next season include being consistent with my results and to lower my points below 100, in order to move up my starting position at races. Another goal of mine is to qualify for U19 Nationals. These goals allow me to challenge myself, while still being attainable.

It’s amazing where just passion alone can take you. But I need your help to really put my dreams in action. Just my love for racing has presented many great opportunities. But with opportunities come expenses. My parents have worked so hard to help me reach my goals, but there’s only so much that they can do. With all the travel, equipment and race entry fees it’s very expensive. Which is why I am hoping you would contribute to my fundraising efforts, I greatly appreciate any contributions you could make towards my upcoming season. Any financial help I can receive would make things much easier on my family as well as a positive step towards reaching my goals. I strongly appreciate every bit of support. Thank you!