The World Cup season started at the end of October, but the first slalom competition will be held this weekend in Levi, Finland. In the coming weeks, matches in Austria and the USA are planned, and it is planned that Germane will play a full World Cup season in slalom this season.
“It’s quite a tight schedule with a lot of traveling. If last year we started the World Cup season with the fourth or fifth stage, then this year the plan is to compete in all of them and accumulate points throughout the season, not only in some stages,” said Đermane about the upcoming season.
Before the previous season, the athlete had not set certain goals for herself, so that there would be no disappointment if they were not met. The following months after the new year were marked by unprecedented success in alpine skiing of independent Latvia - two eighth places in the World Cup in slalom and a gold medal in the world junior championship.
Speaking about this season, Germaine said that the goals are to reach even higher positions, but at the same time, she has not put pressure on herself to do it necessarily.
“Every season there are new athletes who have progressed in the summer stage. Just as I managed to do it last season, many athletes from distant starting numbers have the opportunity to break into the top thirty. Also, many top ten athletes who previously treated injuries will return,” recalled Đermane.
This season, she plans to try to take a little more risk, because last season the athlete focused on the need to ride with a good plan until the very end and save points in order to stay in the top thirty.
“There is not much to lose this season and you need to take a little risk. I am in this situation for the first time, when I will start the season right away in the World Cup. If taking a risk does not work out the first or third time, then nothing, but if such an approach does not work in the competition several times in a row, then definitely let’s change the strategy,” explained 21-year-old Đermane.
During the USSR, only the athlete’s mother Ulla Gērmane (at that time – Lodziņa) has been higher in the stages of the World Cup, entering the top fifteen several times and winning the fourth place once.
What strategies do alpine skiers use to adapt to changing snow conditions during competitions?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Germaine, Alpine Skiing Expert
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Germaine! We are thrilled to have you with us today. With the World Cup season in full swing, it must be an exhilarating time for you as an athlete. Can you tell us a little bit about what you’re feeling as the first slalom competition approaches in Levi, Finland?
Germaine: Thank you for having me! Yes, it’s definitely an exciting time. The anticipation builds as we prepare to hit the slopes. After the season started at the end of October, I feel ready—more focused than ever for this moment.
Editor: This year, you mentioned a tight schedule with lots of traveling and the goal to compete in all stages of the World Cup season, unlike last year. How do you manage such a demanding calendar?
Germaine: It definitely requires careful planning and a lot of mental as well as physical resilience. Traveling can be taxing, but I try to take it one day at a time. This year, my focus is on consistency. Competing in all stages will help me accumulate points throughout the season. It’s about building momentum and improving my performance gradually.
Editor: It’s clear you have a strategy in place. Last season marked a significant achievement for you with two top-10 finishes in the World Cup and a gold medal in the world junior championship. How did that success shape your outlook for this season?
Germaine: Absolutely! Achieving those milestones gave me a boost of confidence. Coming into this season, I’m setting my sights higher. However, I’m keen to not put too much pressure on myself to achieve specific results. My goal is to continually improve, and I believe that will lead me to even better placements.
Editor: It’s a wise approach, allowing yourself space to grow without the burden of strict expectations. You mentioned that every season brings new athletes who have progressed. How do you stay competitive in such an evolving field?
Germaine: It’s essential to stay adaptable and learn from every race and competitor. I pay attention to trends in their techniques and strategies while also honing my skills. Training extensively—both on the snow and off it—helps maintain my edge against emerging talents.
Editor: That dedication surely pays off! What advice would you give to young athletes who aspire to reach the level of competition you are currently part of?
Germaine: I would tell them to trust the process. Set goals but don’t be afraid to adjust them as you learn and grow. The journey in sports is filled with ups and downs, but each experience is valuable. Consistency, hard work, and a love for the sport will take you far.
Editor: Wise words! With the competition heating up in Austria and the USA in the coming weeks, what will be your focus when transitioning between different venues and snow conditions?
Germaine: Each venue has its unique challenges. I’ll focus on adapting quickly; every slope feels different underfoot especially with varying weather conditions. It’s important to remain flexible in my approach and maintain mental clarity to make quick adjustments during the races.
Editor: Fantastic insights, Germaine! Best of luck with the upcoming competitions. We look forward to celebrating your success this season.
Germaine: Thank you! I appreciate the support. I’m excited to share the journey with everyone following along.