Skiing and setting new goals
In her blog, our Trustee, Emily talks about joining Para Alpine Skiing and the importance of setting new goals.
I loved running the London Marathon for the first time in 2025. I ran it again in 2026 alongside my dad, who is a role model for me and continues to set himself big challenges in his sixties. I’d previously joked that I’d retire as an ‘athlete’ after the marathons and surpassing my fundraising goals. However, I realised how much I’d enjoyed setting myself challenges that pushed me mentally and physically. So I started considering another adventure.
The important of para role models in sport
I’d always been inspired following female athletes with MS, particularly Kadeena Cox MBE, Lina and Laviai Neilson. I then watched Nina Sparks at Milano Cortina 2026, Great Britain’s first ever female snowboarder to compete at a Paralympic Games. In an interview, Nina mentioned the low numbers of women taking part in para winter sports, and the importance of showing up. Having loved skiing since I was a child, this sparked the idea that skiing could be my next chapter.
I realised through my running journey that success in sport looks different for everyone, including those with disabilities. Even in the London Marathon there were people of all abilities. And the Accessibility Team were great at ensuring I had a positive experience as a runner with MS. I was keen to find a supportive and empowering community to help me have a similar experience with skiing.
Joining the adaptive ski community
I realised joining the adaptive ski community in England meant a lot of time in indoor snow zones and dry ski slopes, which I needed to get used to. I joined a programme run by GB Paralympics, travelling to Glasgow in May for an Explore your Paralympic Potential event. This was great as I had some 1-1 coaching, refined my turning skills and learnt more about the eligibility classification process. I then joined Snowsports England as a member and signed up to several inclusive competitive events through the 2026 Arnold Clark Parallel Lines race series.
Setting new goals
I was lucky to meet a new friend through Para Alpine Skiing who was my age, had MS and loved skiing. I’ve skied with people from a range of abilities but never anyone with MS. So, it was nice to connect with someone who had similar experiences. She shared some tips including getting heated ski boots to help with numb feet on the slopes, something I struggled when running and skiing. We’ve attended a few competitions and training days together, which has been a lot of fun.
It’s a time and energy commitment but one I’ve really enjoyed, particularly as it’s helped me enjoy new experiences. It’s so important to also invest in your own wellbeing and do things that bring you different kinds of joy.
I’ve loved learning and competing in the slalom events so far and am excited to try Para Nordic Skiing, including Biathlon, over the Autumn. I’m enjoying the start of this new adventure. I’m excited to see where it takes me, particularly as my husband and I are also teaching my three-year-old daughter to ski. For the moment my goals are to relish the chance to build up my strength and fitness again and celebrate what my mind and body are capable of.
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