CELEBRATING INSPIRATIONAL WOMEN

Georgia F's Story

Name: Georgia F
Rider Type: Skier

1. Can you share your personal journey into free riding and what initially inspired you to explore the mountains?

I came on a one week ski holiday five years ago. I injured myself and was too stubborn to let my paid holiday slip away. So I stayed, and skied and copied all the awesome skiers and boarders on the mountain. I couldn’t keep up, or do half what they could. However I fell in love with the magic of the mountains, the changing conditions and the passionate people. I decided I should come back after my injury was healed and attempt to ski properly. Since then I have never looked back.

2. What does International Women's Day mean to you, and how does your passion for the mountains fit into that celebration?

I ride with the best skiers and boarders I know. Some are men, and some women. But it’s amazing to see that it’s a unique sport where gender doesn’t change the playing field. Its great to see women ripping it up and I’m proud to be one of them.

3. Can you describe a memorable day or moment on the mountain that really captured the spirit of free riding for you?

Just this season, I finally became confident with short turns, I jumped down a couloir smoothly, without stress or fear. But pure joy. I realised I could reach more areas of the mountains now that I could safely ski a more diverse terrain. The mountains were no longer limited to a perfect powder day. It was a freeing feeling.

4. Have you encountered any challenges as a woman enjoying free riding, and how have you learned or grown from those experiences?

The mountains are inspiring as they are ever changing. Knowing the elements are stronger than myself makes every day skiing an adventure and a threat. Being smart, understanding your own limits and being confident with your gear is all I can do. The risk is there every day, so every day teaches me something new.

5. How has being part of the free riding community, whether locally or through FreeRide Republic, enriched your overall experience in the mountains?

I have changed my entire life, living permanently in the mountains due to the fun, the people and the never ending challenges. There is magic in trusting people, going into the mountains and knowing people have your back. Its a luxury the world is loosing but it remains in FreeRide.

6. In your view, what unique contributions do recreational free riders bring to the mountain culture, especially for women?

FreeRide skiers are made up of the professional to the toe dipping, just learning population. Its a never ending list of places to go, snow to shred and people to unite with. Being able to teach those learning, learn from those advanced and make it how you want is exciting. Freeriding doesn’t have to be just the red bull experts riding spines and backflipping avalanches. It can be any level you want, the best feeling is finding the line each day that makes you want to go back for more.

7. What advice would you give to women who are curious about free riding but might feel hesitant to give it a try?

The scariest part of freeriding is the unknown. Go learn some basics of snow, avalanches and gear. Tag along with a few fun riders who have knowledge and understand your limits and there is plenty of safe tracks to find. With confidence comes freedom and you will never look back.

8. How do you balance the thrill of free riding with the importance of staying safe on the mountain?

I am a trained medical professional, a white water rafting guide and big wave lifeguard. I am aware of every way you can break your body, how the elements will always win and how, no matter how good you are,  there is always a risk. Therefore I ride things that I am comfortable doing, with people I know and trust and I’m happy to back down from challenges. Having fun is my only goal, and playing safe is how I roll.

9. Who or what has been a significant source of support or inspiration on your free riding journey?

I only found FreeRiding because of the feeling of freedom. It’s a passion and all my inspiration is driven from enjoying learning, watching the professionals and talking to friends about their knowledge and experience. You always learn best when you’re motivated.

10. What does your ideal day on the mountains look like, and what keeps drawing you back to this lifestyle?

Bluebird days, fresh powder and a fun gang of people to go play with. Being an adult doesnt mean we can’t play anymore, I just play with snow instead of toys.