Success elements of elite big-mountain freeskiers

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to gain an understanding of the success elements of elite big mountain (BM) freeskiers to perform their best while immersed in their challenging sport. Big Mountain freeskiing is a high risk alternative sport that takes place in an unpredictable mountain environment. Nine of the best BM freeskiers in the world participated in the study, seven men, and two women. A qualitative research design was used with a post-positivist paradigm. Face-to-face interviews were used to gather the data. The success elements that emerged from the interviews were categorized within three temporal categories; pre-performance preparation (line selection, visualization, and calmness), performance execution (confidence and focus), and post-performance evaluation (reflection, lessons learned, mindset). Two additional success elements were evident for all athletes interviewed; love for their sport and what they were doing, and a fully focused connection to that in which they were engaged. These latter two success elements were not confined by temporal boundaries and were presented separately due to their uniqueness and importance. These athletes carried an intensely focused connection to what they were doing, and had the ability to remain calm while facing challenging situations. The ability of these athletes to transfer certain success elements they employed in BM freeskiing to the rest of their lives was interesting and one that warrants further research.