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Steamboat Magazine

Meet the Stars of the Slopes: Riley Jacobs

03/09/2022 01:36PM ● By Dan Greeson

Photo courtesy of Riley Jacobs

Riley Jacobs, 18
Freeskiing
Trained with Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club

What’s your proudest achievement?
So far in my short career, I would say it's being able to be a role model for kids that are younger than me. Growing up in Steamboat I was almost always the only girl freeskiing, so hopefully being able to help them is amazing.

What would it mean to you to qualify and compete in the Olympics?
It would be absolutely insane to qualify. It would be surreal. It's the ultimate goal and getting there would be crazy.

What’s the best advice your coach has given you?
One is, "Winners focus on winning, and losers focus on winners." This helps to keep track of yourself and not worry about what others are doing. Just do your best. The other one is always worded differently but it's along the lines of, "You know how to do this, so just go do it." I hear this all the time before runs and it always helps calm the nerves.

What role has family played in your success?
Everything!! I could not be where I am today without the nonstop support and sacrifices my family has made for me. I owe everything to them. Living in OakCreek, 30 minutes from school and training, was tough and I am sure my chauffeur – I mean, my mom – would agree.

What’s your favorite part about freeskiing?
My favorite part is being in the air and upside down. I love to fly. It's just so cool. The adrenaline from sending new tricks is amazing.

Who’s on your current playlist?
Abba is my #1! Outside of that I really love any pump-up jams including Britney Spears and Dua Lipa. When I’m not skiing, country is a huge guilty pleasure.

What’s your travel must-have?
My always must-have is definitely candy. Long road trips or even longer airplane rides can always get better with some gummy worms.

Anything else you want to share?
Upon the request of my coach, he says it's very necessary that the world knows I can pogo stick and jump rope at the same time, and unicycle.