Meet one of the Men's Ski Team Captains, Willie Colt

1. How old were you when you started skiing, and what was the first ski mountain you ever went to?

I started skiing at 17 months at Ascutney Mountain in Vermont. My dad wanted to take me skiing in a backpack, but they wouldn't allow it so he rented me the smallest stuff they had.

2. Who taught you how to ski?

My dad. I never took a lesson or coaching until I was six when I joined my race team.

3. What is your favorite mountain to ski at, and what is your favorite trail to ski at this mountain?

My favorite mountain to ski is Mt. Washington. The Sherburne trail is my favorite trail. Favorite ski resort in the country is Alta. East coast is Whaleback.

4. Do you have any pre-race rituals? If so, what are they?

I always have to urinate in the woods at the start. Otherwise, just a normal warm up and breathing to get my focus.

5. How has the move to the EISA benefited the team as a whole?

It is the best thing for this team. The level of competition is so much higher than the USCSA; it is unbelievable. It was rough at first and a harsh reality check, but now it's the normal situation, and striving to do better is so much more fun than it ever has been. It's tough when you give it your all, and you are still barely cracking top 30.

6. What mountain (outside of Waterville) is your favorite mountain to race at?

I have a lot of favorite mountains for racing, but my favorite races that I have ever done are the Middlebury Carnival, the UNH fundraiser, and the t-shirt classic at Mt. Sunapee.

7. What memory (in your ski career) stands out the most to you?

As a freshman, I got 6th place at USCSA nationals in slalom.