Veronika Velez-Zuzulová: Our famous Slovak
Veronika doesn't need an introduction. And so we are extremely happy that she has become a part of our Kari Traa team and we believe that she will be the same inspiration for you as she is for us. Here is an interview about her current work and private life.
You've currently moved from your profesional skiing career to the role of a television expert. Last season we could see you live in the studio, but also right on the hill. How do you like this role?
I am enjoying it very much, because I am still in touch with skiing environment and I meet people in a different positions. This means that I have finally time to chat with the racers more and I am no longer their competitor, so it is also pleasant and interesting in this respect.
Kari Traa Rong down jacket, Molster wool sweater, Rose merino hat, Vandre sneakers
Do you feel tremor before the TV broadcasts? ? As a racer, you are no stranger when giving interviews on live TV, but what is it like to be on the other side?
I don't have a tremor because everything is natural and I don't have to say something learned, so I'm not preparing in any way. I am very lucky that Oli (Olga Hamadejová) understands skiing very well and knows what she is talking about. That is also why there is no need for preparation, because our communication is always natural and spontaneous.
Which racer is currently your favorite one and in which do you see as new rising talent?
Probably Mikaela, who has great ease and can adapt to any snow very naturally. As for me, new talent is Croatian Ljutic.
Kari Traa Rose thermal underwear, Eva down vest, Ingeborg headband
Athletes do not always succeed and every race is not just about good results. Therefore the athlete may also encounter negative reactions from fans. How did you perceive the support from Slovakia during you career.
Support can be very pleasant, but people can also be very cruel. You need to learn to live with it and try ignore it and be focused on yourself. Of course, when it works, the support is really great and fits well when you can share the result with the audience at the finish.
Skiing is about individuals, their training, but psychological training also plays a big role. What helped you concentrate on the race?
Yes, in skiing it is very important because the skier has a very short time for his performance and every little mistake counts. I tried everything possible, but in the end I understood that no one will find a solution for me so I have to find it myself. I had my ritual in which I talked to myself, which helped me a lot.
Kari Traa Voss Primaloft jacket, Agnes merino thermal underwear, Eva down vest, Silja merino thermal underwear
What future awaits Slovak skiing in the coming years?
I hate to say it, but if somee radical changes don't come, Slovak skiing will end after Petra.
You currently live in France with your family.How often do you come to Slovakia? Can we meet you in the Tatras?
I go to Slovakia very often, especially in winter. That's why I don't feel like I'm often far away :) I like to go to the Tatras and I try to go very often :)
Kari Traa Molster sweater, Stil technical thermal underwear
Will your son continue in your footsteps?
We'll see whether he going to. We won't force him, we will give him the option, we will show him the way and but it will only be up to him if he decides to go after it :)
What sport are you currently doing (besides running after your son :)
I started practicing yoga. I still thought it wasn't for me, but I tried and it has really caught me :)