At just 17 years old, Ingrid Gerdes is already carving out a name for herself in the freeride skiing world. As a proud RMU ambassador, Ingrid’s passion for the sport takes her to breathtaking locations, where she trains, competes, and pushes her limits. This summer, Ingrid had the opportunity to chase winter all the way to Chile, an experience that tested her skills and deepened her love for the sport.
Ingrid’s journey took her to the picturesque town of Farellones, nestled at the base of three major ski resorts. Surrounded by towering peaks and fresh powder, she felt the excitement build as she prepared for the upcoming competition. “The days before the competition, it snowed a lot, which was so much fun but also a great way to get back on skis,” Ingrid shared. The fresh snowfall provided the perfect playground for her to reconnect with her skis and prepare for the challenges ahead.
The competition was a two-day event at El Colorado, one of Chile’s premier resorts. As Ingrid inspected the venue and met fellow competitors, the sense of camaraderie and community among the athletes became clear. “My nerves were definitely high on the day of qualifiers,” Ingrid admitted. “But having a community of friends and teammates to support you really makes a difference.” This sense of belonging and shared passion is what drives Ingrid in her skiing journey.
When it came time to compete, Ingrid kept her focus on what mattered most: the joy of skiing and pushing her own boundaries. “I like to remember that I compete for the joy of skiing and to push myself,” she said. This mindset paid off, as Ingrid delivered a run she was proud of, setting herself up for success in the finals.
On finals day, Ingrid was determined to ski a run that she could be proud of. She chose a challenging line with a sketchy double, a bold move that showcased her skill and confidence on the mountain. The risk paid off, and Ingrid’s performance earned her a well-deserved 2nd place finish in the event. “I was stoked to have skied it,” Ingrid said, reflecting on her run and the thrill of competing at such a high level.
Ingrid’s time in Chile was more than just a competition; it was a chance to grow as an athlete and a person. “Traveling to Chile was a great experience and definitely pushed my skiing,” she said. Now back home in Vail, Colorado, Ingrid is eagerly looking forward to the upcoming season, ready to take on new challenges and continue her journey as a freeride skier.
As an RMU ambassador, Ingrid embodies the spirit of adventure, community, and passion for the mountains. Her story is a testament to the power of skiing to bring people together and inspire us to reach new heights—both on and off the slopes.
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