Q&A with Resi “crazy, Tiger, Wyoming” Stiegler

GU ATHLETE: Resi “crazy, Tiger, Wyoming” Stiegler
SPORT: Alpine skiing – 2006 Olympian; seven top-ten World Cup finishes
BIRTHPLACE: Jackson Hole, Wyoming, 1985
CURRENT RESIDENCE: When not traveling the world, I try and get back to Jackson.
WEBSITE: www.resi-stiegler.com

Proudest athletic accomplishment?
I’m working on it. I had a bad accident in December and I’m working on getting back on snow and kicking some butt again.
That will be the greatest accomplishment for me.

Superstitions for training or competition?
I’m superstitious about everything from how I warm up to what I listen too. It can get to be a bit too much at times.

Funny racing/training story?
If you asked my coaches they probably wouldn’t think this was funny but I have missed my start multiple times. Luckily I haven’t missed it on a World Cup day.
Also, on Halloween last year we tried to get everyone to dress up and we ended up switching ski outfits with the Italian men’s team.
No one could figure out what we were doing!

What’s the strangest thing a spectator has ever done while you were racing?
I have this SudTirolian fan club - they just claimed me and wear jackets they made with my name on them. They are always trying to get me to have a beer at the end of the race. It’s become somewhat of a mission to get away from them. I love that they cheer me on but at times it can get a bit overwhelming.

What characteristics do you most respect in your competitors?
Kindness, especially when we spend so much time over in Europe racing just days after Christmas. It’s always nice to be around a bunch of girls with spirit and kindness.

If you were not a pro athlete, what would you do professionally?
I think I would enjoy the Peace Corps. I’m big on traveling, exploring the world and meeting and helping people so I could see myself doing that type of thing.

When you were a kid, what did you dream of becoming when you grew up?
A race car driver….. I guess I was just born craving speed!

Song title that best fits your personality/spirit?
Rebel Girl by the Bikini Kills or Dancing Barefoot by Patti Smith.

How do you reward yourself when you reach a key goal?
I don’t. I’m already onto the next goal.

If you were a contestant on Survivor, what would be your one comfort item from home?
I’ve never watched Survivor so I don’t know what they would allow… but I would probably bring a harmonica.

Personal causes you’re involved in?
Surfaid.

Three things people don’t know about you?
I hate minivans. I love burnt chicken. I’m gluten free.