Paula Moltzan on her ‘unconventional’ ski racing journey, reconnecting with Mikaela Shiffrin, and globe ambitions at age 30

Paula Moltzan’s journey to becoming one of the United States’ premier alpine ski racers is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and an unyielding passion for the sport. From her early days on the modest slopes of Minnesota to competing on the world’s grandest stages alongside childhood friend Mikaela Shiffrin, Moltzan’s path has been anything but conventional.

Early Life and Introduction to Skiing

Born on July 4, 1994, in Prior Lake, Minnesota, Paula Moltzan was introduced to skiing by her parents, both of whom were ski instructors. Despite this early exposure, it wasn’t until the age of 11 that she joined the Buck Hill Ski Team full-time. Under the mentorship of the legendary coach Erich Sailer, who has a storied history of developing world-class talent, Moltzan honed her skills on the slopes of Buck Hill. This small ski area, known for producing Olympic athletes like Lindsey Vonn and Kristina Koznick, became the foundation of Moltzan’s burgeoning ski career.

Balancing Academics and Athletics

While her passion for skiing grew, Moltzan remained committed to her academics. An injury at the age of eight, resulting from a fall off a jungle gym, led to a compound fracture and a dislocated elbow. This experience sparked an interest in medicine, and she aspired to become someone who could “fix people.” However, the demanding nature of competitive skiing made it challenging to balance both pursuits. Recognizing the need for a more accommodating environment, Moltzan transitioned to the Vail Ski & Snowboard Academy in Colorado. This tuition-free public school catered to athletes, allowing her to pursue both her academic and athletic ambitions effectively.

Rise in Competitive Skiing

Moltzan’s dedication to her craft began to bear fruit as she quickly ascended the ranks in competitive skiing. In 2015, she clinched the Junior World Championship slalom title, a significant milestone that showcased her potential on the international stage. However, the transition to the World Cup circuit presented challenges, and after several seasons without the desired results, Moltzan was not renamed to the U.S. Ski Team in 2017.

Collegiate Career and Resurgence

Facing this setback, Moltzan sought opportunities that would allow her to continue skiing competitively while pursuing her academic goals. Conversations with former Olympian Jimmy Cochran led her to the University of Vermont (UVM), where she joined the Catamounts ski team. At UVM, Moltzan thrived both on the slopes and in the classroom. She won the NCAA Ski Championship slalom title in 2017 and consistently delivered strong performances, earning First Team All-American honors in both slalom and giant slalom. Her time in collegiate skiing rekindled her love for the sport, offering a supportive environment that emphasized team success alongside individual achievements.

Return to the World Cup and Olympic Debut

Moltzan’s impressive collegiate performances did not go unnoticed. In 2019, she was renamed to the U.S. Ski Team and began making her mark on the World Cup circuit. Her consistent top-30 finishes culminated in a 12th place finish in slalom at Flachau, Austria, in 2019. These successes paved the way for her Olympic debut at the 2022 Beijing Winter Games, where she delivered standout performances, finishing 12th in giant slalom and 8th in slalom. Reflecting on her Olympic experience, Moltzan expressed immense satisfaction, stating, “I’m really happy to cross the finish line four times. It’s really special to me.”

Reconnecting with Mikaela Shiffrin

A notable aspect of Moltzan’s journey has been her enduring friendship and professional relationship with fellow ski racer Mikaela Shiffrin. Both athletes have roots in the Midwest and have trained together at various points in their careers. Their mutual support and camaraderie have been instrumental in their respective successes, exemplifying the positive impact of healthy competition and friendship in high-performance sports.

Aspirations at 30 and Beyond

As Moltzan approaches her 30s, her ambitions remain as vibrant as ever. She continues to strive for excellence on the World Cup circuit, aiming for podium finishes and further Olympic success. Beyond her athletic pursuits, Moltzan has expressed a desire to return to her academic interests, particularly in the field of medicine. Balancing these dual aspirations speaks to her multifaceted character and determination to excel in all facets of her life.

Conclusion

Paula Moltzan’s unconventional journey in ski racing serves as an inspiring narrative of resilience, adaptability, and relentless passion. From the slopes of Minnesota to the world stage, her story underscores the importance of perseverance, the value of supportive relationships, and the endless possibilities that arise when one remains dedicated to their dreams.