6. Sarah Cookler, Team USA Head of Sport

From elite racer to grassroots builder to Olympic team leader, Sarah Cookler is helping shape the future of ski mountaineering in the U.S. In this episode of SKIMO Gold, host Travis Macy sits down with Sarah—Head of Sport for USA Ski Mountaineering Association—to talk about her incredible journey from Vermont Nordic skier to head coach, race director, and force behind Project Podium.

Sarah shares how she’s grown the Silver Fork Ski Mountaineering Club into a powerhouse program, fostering a community-first approach that develops fast, skilled, and enthusiastic athletes—especially among youth. She talks mental prep, race-day transitions, gear tech (yes, we’re talking skin rips and kangaroo pockets), and why the mental game is just as important as physical training.

They dig into what it takes to grow the sport in the U.S.—from local race organizers and family participation to youth programs and Olympic goals. Sarah also reflects on her own race experiences, coaching philosophy, and how her background in emergency medicine helps her thrive under pressure.

Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a parent of a budding skimo athlete, or dreaming of 2026, this one’s packed with wisdom, inspiration, and community spirit. Let’s go!

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Skimo Gold is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.