Valentina Pfurtscheller, a pioneering skier from Stubai, aims to return to competitive skiing after facing setbacks. At 22, she recalls her early introduction to the sport by her father and has progressed through various ski squads. Despite challenges, including financial strains and leaving the B squad, her passion remains strong. Valentina is launching a crowdfunding project to support her training costs as she prepares for the European Cup competitions, determined to reclaim her status in the sport.
Valentina Pfurtscheller: A Trailblazer in Alpine Skiing
Valentina Pfurtscheller has made history as the first and only woman from Stubai to compete in World Cup races. Her ambition is to return to that elite level of competition.
Chasing Dreams and Overcoming Challenges
“I am fighting for my dream to be at the top one day,” declares Valentina, a 22-year-old skier with a lifelong passion for the sport. She fondly recalls how her father, Hansi, introduced her to skiing at the tender age of two. “Skiing was in my blood,” she laughs, reflecting on her early years. Growing up in Neustift, Valentina quickly transitioned from recreational skiing to racing, attending both the Neustift ski middle school and the Saalfelden ski gymnasium, where she earned her diploma.
Her relentless dedication has propelled her through the ranks, focusing on technical disciplines like slalom and giant slalom. Valentina made the leap from TSV to ÖSV, joining the C junior squad after her second year in FIS and subsequently advancing to the B squad. One of her notable achievements includes an impressive eighth place finish in the European Cup slalom at Mayrhofen. She also experienced the thrill of competing in World Cup events held in Semmering and Flachau, where she enjoyed the electric atmosphere of racing in front of enthusiastic crowds.
However, Valentina’s journey has not been without its obstacles. The past year has proven challenging as she struggled to meet the required limits, leading to her departure from the B squad. Despite this setback, her determination to become a professional skier remains unwavering. Currently, she is part of the support squad, which requires her to self-finance her training, including costs for courses, accommodation, and equipment. To tackle this financial hurdle, Valentina has launched a crowdfunding project that has already seen promising support.
As the new season approaches, Valentina is focused on regaining her position in the B squad through the upcoming European Cup competitions, starting in December. “The excitement is immense. At the beginning of the season, you never really know where you stand, but I believe I am back in good form,” she asserts confidently. A strong performance could pave the way for a return to the World Cup circuit. While she remains optimistic, Valentina is pragmatic, stating, “There is always a plan B. But first, I will strive to reach the pinnacle of the skiing world. This year is all or nothing. Go big or go home!” It’s notable that Magdalena Ranalter, another hope from Stubai’s women’s alpine skiing scene, has retired from competition.
Support Valentina’s Journey
In her crowdfunding initiative, Valentina expresses her deep commitment to the sport: “Even if you give 100% in competitive sports, it isn’t always enough to meet the squad limits. Yet, my passion for ski racing is stronger than ever, and I refuse to give up on my dream.” The financial burden of her upcoming season is considerable, amounting to approximately 25,000 euros for expenses such as accommodation, equipment, lift tickets, and training. She hopes that with support from her community, she can continue her journey. For those interested in contributing, details and a link to Valentina’s crowdfunding project can be found on her Instagram profile.