Tristan Riley--State Champion Spotlight

1) What were your preparations leading up to the state meet?

This year I was very focused on the mental aspect of my racing, and trying to stay mentally ready for high pressure races. I also spent a lot of time in the weight room during the offseason and pre-states, and got as much time on skis as soon as I could, trying to maximize my training everyday. 
2) How did you deal with the pressure and emotions that come along with competing in a state meet?

I spend a lot of time in my own head. I practiced my pre race routines a lot, and just having a positive mindset. I also use positive reaffirmations to myself a lot, to reassure my confidence and trust in my skills and training.
3) What was going through your mind at the start?

My mind remains very clear at the start. I have a few phrases that I repeat to myself if I feel unconfident, that reassure me while I'm in the start. I try to keep my mind as clear as possible, and just focus on my breathing, and being calm, until I hear the beep. As soon as I hear the beep, it flips a switch in my head, and everything becomes aggressive and slightly angry. 
4)  What do you contribute your success to?

I contribute my success to my coaches and my parents. I have had so much support from the people around me, with help in training, and mental training. I would not be where I am without the help from my coaches and parents.
5)  What are your goals/plans for next year?

I am super excited to continue ski racing again next year. I plan to graduate highschool and head to college after that. I plan to continue to train and improve as much as I can throughout next year. 
6) What surprised you the most about this season?

I was very surprised about how much of a difference being focused on the mental aspect of my game made. Dialing in on my mental game made all the difference in the world for me. 
7) What moment/event will you remember the most from the season?

At the state meet, when I knew that I had won slalom, and I hugged a few of my friends, and then I walked over, and I hugged one of my coaches, and I was just so happy that I had won. 

8) What do you like most about Alpine Skiing?

I love how much fun it is. It is the friendships, and the people, and the venues. It is just so much fun to me, the sport, and everything it comes with.