an interview with François Simond...

François Simond has recently retired from professional competition after a long and successful career as one of France's top racers. He has been French slalom champion and been part of the French team at the Winter Olympic games on more than one occasion.
Here he tells us a little bit about life as a top sportsman....

Q: How old were you when you first skied ?

A: 2years, and 3 months old !

Q: When did you first race on the World Cup circuit ?

A: In February 1990, in Slalom at Schladming, Austria.

Q: What has been your most memorable moment racing ?

A: The 1992 Winter Olympic Games in Albertville, France. I was 21, for the 2nd run I had bib number 1 - I was almost Olympic champion.

Q: In your opinion, who is the greatest skier you've raced against and why ?

A: Aamodt (Norway) - because he's won in every discipline, but mainly because every year he's in the finals for the World Cup.

Q: Ski technology has changed dramatically in the last few years - have you changed your ski equipment ?

A: I changed my equipment a few winters ago, in slalom I changed from 194cm length to 170cm, with a more pronounced carving sidecut.

Q: How many days a year did you spend on snow when you were a professional racer ?

A: When I was on the circuit I was on snow for around 180 - 210 days a year. Training starts in July with 60 days before the first World Cup competitions in October.

Q: Both your father and sister still race, do you think you'll be as quick as your dad at his age ?

A: I'm over 30 now, and have had 10 years on the World Cup circuit. It is physically very difficult skiing at this level, there are lots of shocks from falls in the different disciplines - all this leaves its mark. But I hope to still be skiing at my father's age, but for pleisure !

Q: What advice would you give to anyone who wants to buy new skis or boots ?

A: Take notice of expert opinion who can help you narrow your search. It's a good idea to try out on snow before buying if you can.

Q: Any tips for people coming to Flaine ?

A: Make the most of this exceptional winter sports area, and when using the pistes and the equipment be safe !

Great skiing to everyone !

François Simond