By Katy Savage
Victoria Johnson, 15, lives in Mendon. The sophomore at Killington Mountain School (KMS) competes in Moguls and Dual Moguls.
Q&A with Victoria Johnson
Mountain Times: What does it mean to you to have the World Cup come to Killington?
Victoria Johnson: It shows that our mountain has the ability to take me to where I want to go and beyond. It also shows that Killington has the resources to be able to hold the highest levels of competitions. Maybe someday we’ll get to see a Mogul World Cup at our home mountain.
What got you into ski racing and how did you first discover your passion for the sport?
VJ: I got into mogul skiing because of my older brother. I started skiing when I was 1 year old and started mogul skiing soon after. I have always been trying to chase my brother in everything he tries to do, but when I ski moguls, and mogul competitions, it was like something just clicked.
What are your future goals for the sport (for your race career or any other career in skiing)?
VJ: I plan to pursue my skiing through at least high school and excel as far as I can in the sport. After that I plan to see where the wind takes me. It has been an amazing experience over all these years, and I will value the unique experiences, skills and relationships I have made through this sport, regardless of where it may take me.
Are there any female ski racers or athletes who have inspired you to pursue your goals? What have you learned from them?
VJ: When I was younger, I always looked up to Hannah Soar as she was really committed to her sport and was also really good at it. She has been a great role model for all the young athletes here at Killington and it has been fun to watch her go all the way to the Olympics.
What does it mean to you to be part of a growing community of female athletes?
VJ: It makes me feel like I am part of something and it makes me want to push harder and excel at what I do.
How do you think the ski racing community can further support and uplift women in the sport?
VJ: Especially in my sport, encouraging more female athletes to stay in the sport beyond competition to become coaches and officials. But don’t get me wrong, I have fantastic mogul coaches.
