The Blondes - Janelle Yip

Tell us about you! Why and how did you get into your sport?

I grew up skiing in Fernie, BC my parents have a cabin there and put me on skis when I was two years old. I started competing in slopestyle skiing and moguls when I was a teenager riding out of the city's Winter Olympic Park. Four years ago I moved to Revelstoke BC to apply my skiing in the backcountry.

What's a fun fact about you?

I am a quarter Chinese. (random fact). I love to mountain bike, climb and hike in the summer time and I am a wildland firefighter in the summer time.

What are your goals and aspirations?

My goal is to progress female freestyle skiing in the backcountry and film adventures. Go on adventure trips and inspire others.

What has been your biggest challenge throughout your career? How did you overcome it?

My biggest challenge has been the learning curve of the backcountry. Figuring out weather patterns, places to go and getting a hang of driving my snowmobile into the backcountry. These have been challenges but also I've learnt so much and had amazing experiences as well.

Injury is a part of life and sport - how did you deal with yours?

Thankfully I haven't had any recent injuries. I have struggled with head injuries in the past.

What gets you the most excited about Stoko?

When I'm skiing I wear a helmet, and when I ski something extreme I put in my mouthguard. Stoko because why not have another piece of protection for my body.

Do you have any pre-competition rituals?

I actually don't compete any longer, but I try to stay away from superstitious rituals. I find that including rituals is another added mental factor that isn't necessary. There are so many things that can change so fast that are out of your control in the outdoors. Instead I aim to have everything in my control dialled and ready for whatever might happen.

Favourite snack before/after a sweat session?

A coffee and a banana before and a protein smoothie afterwards.

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Career Highlights:

• MSP segment in last years Huck Yeah