EMILY COOK
The U.S. national champ in aerial skiing tells us how she gets the guts to try multiple flips and twists, 30 feet in the air

Photo by NBC USOC
You've won the World Cup and three national championships, and competed at the 2006 Olympics. What has been the highlight of your career so far?
It's so hard to pick one moment. It has been such an incredible journey with so many mental, emotional, and physical tests. However, if I had to pick one so far, it would have to be walking in the opening ceremonies of the Torino Olympic Games.
In 2002, I had an injury that many predicted would end my career as an athlete, and to come back from that—after almost three years away from the sport—and represent my country as an Olympian was such an honor. Walking into that stadium with my teammates is a moment I will never forget.
What are your goals for this Olympics?
My goal is simply to perform my best. I know what I am capable of, and if I go to the Olympics and do the best jumps I can, I will be able to walk away satisfied. At this point, I have prepared with all my heart and soul, and I know that if I continue to do that up until the Games, I can come away from Vancouver with no regrets.



