Personalities
In January 2022, we had the pleasure of meeting Magdalena Egger for an exclusive interview on the slopes in Lech. The talented and ambitious young woman from Lech told us all about her home town, her passion and her goals...
Where does your passion for ski racing come from?
Anyone who grows up in the Arlberg region has the great privilege of having lots of different slopes practically on their doorstep. So it’s only natural that you learn to ski as soon as you can walk – and that’s exactly how it was for me. As well as the ideal local conditions, the Arlberg Ski Club has also had a huge influence. Even as children, we spent a lot of time out and about across the whole area – we all simply enjoyed being out and about with friends and getting some exercise in the fresh air. My passion for racing only developed later on.
Are there people in your life who played a big part in getting you started in ski racing and who help to keep you motivated?
My parents have always stood by me and supported me in every way they can. They showed me all the things you can do in the snow and gave me the chance to develop a passion for something. My passion for skiing is what drives me; I ski for myself and for no one else. I do, however, really enjoy training in a group – there’s a great dynamic and everyone motivates each other.
To what extent do you benefit from living in your home town of Lech Zürs?
It’s always absolutely lovely to come home after a gruelling week of training or racing. I’ve seen lots of different places and landscapes, and to be honest, there really are some truly beautiful spots on Earth. But the more I see, the more I realise what a little paradise I live in. I recover best in my home town and benefit from the wide range of activities on offer. I can go skiing, ski touring, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, tobogganing and so on whenever I like, with no hassle, which helps me mix things up in my slalom training.
Where are your favourite runs?
Now I’m spoilt for choice – that’s a difficult question! On the Arlberg, though, I’d go for a run that’s technically easy: from Weibermahd via the Grubenalpe to Petersboden. The gypsum pits fascinate me and the view towards Bürstegg is stunning. It’s also my ‘home run’ – I used to race my friends down it on one ski when I was a child.
My favourite run outside the Arlberg is in Narvik (NOR). It’s called Linkenloypa, starts at 1,539 metres above sea level and runs down the Tredjebakken slope to the town centre on the shore of a fjord.
How and where do you find your mental strength?
I think it’s very important to find a balance time and again, to get some distance from the ski circuit and to be able to reflect in peace. Nature helps me a great deal with this – I switch off best in the mountains. At the summit or up on the mountain, everything else seems so small, so unimportant and so far away. That allows me to analyse situations completely objectively and draw conclusions from them. As soon as certain situations are behind me, I have renewed energy for the tasks ahead and feel free.
Who is your role model and/or who has always inspired you?
I’ve always looked up to athletes from the region. For me, that’s somehow more tangible than top international runners, and it shows just how good the structures are in the ski club, the Vorarlberg Ski Association, various schools, and so on. It gives me confidence when I see that other athletes have followed exactly the same path and made it to the top. There are quite a few athletes in Vorarlberg from whom you can learn a thing or two, even from different sports.
Could you also get into other sports or, for example, freeriding?
At the moment, I can’t imagine competing professionally in other sports. Racing is my world; it’s where I really come into my own, and I’m prepared to give it my all. Skiing is a versatile sport, though, and perhaps after my career I’ll find myself heading out into the backcountry more often. I already enjoy every powder and firn day of the year, but as far as competition goes, I’d tend to rule it out.
How do you prefer to prepare for winter over the summer?
I like the feeling of being really fit so that I can cover lots of ground in winter without getting tired. That’s why my fitness training is very intense in the summer – but I prefer to train outdoors and really enjoy going on long hikes and bike rides at home to discover new places. And when it’s not all about training, I also like to use the summer for barbecues, swimming or a bit of action.
What’s your diet like? Do you follow a strict diet plan?
I don’t really have a proper diet plan. I don’t think there’s a right or wrong way – everyone has to work out for themselves what’s best for them. Besides, I reckon you can’t go far wrong with a balanced, basic diet.
What do you get up to when you’re not skiing?
I like being outdoors and doing things with friends. Otherwise, I read a book or watch a film.
What is your biggest dream?
Ever since I was little, I’ve dreamt of being one of the best skiers in the world. I want to keep improving and consistently compete at the very top of the world rankings. Of course, it’s also my dream and goal to be in contention for overall titles and medals at major events.
What are your hopes for the future?
I hope that things return to normal, that everyone can go about their work without restrictions and that people are happy. You do what you enjoy well. That’s why I also hope to stay injury-free and continue to work consistently on improving myself.
How can we at Lech Zürs Tourism continue to support you?
What would you like to see from your home town?
I’m proud to be able to represent my home town and am really grateful for the support from back home. I appreciate that so many locals are sharing in my joy and hope to continue receiving backing and support from the village.
What are the upcoming highlights for you in 2022?
A particular highlight and my goal for the season is the Junior World Championships in Panorama (CAN). This year will be my last chance to compete in the junior category.
We at Lech Zürs Tourism are proud to have young talents like Magdalena here in Lech and, of course, to be able to support her wherever possible.
We would like to thank Magdalena for the brilliant interview and wish her
all the best and continued success in achieving all her goals!