How Unseasonably Warm Weather Disrupts Training for World Cup Aerialists: Challenges and Solutions

Warm weather caused some challenges for the World Cup course builders at Deer Valley Resort. Training for the aerials competitors was canceled Tuesday and Wednesday due to slushy conditions. Thankfully, colder temperatures overnight helped firm up the freestyle runs by Thursday morning, allowing the teams to train just in time for the competition starting Friday.

The aerials jumps, towering at 14 feet, were difficult to manage with the snow conditions affecting the run-in and landing zones. “It’s frustrating because this event is so important for us. Missing training days at our home venue is disappointing,” said Kaila Kuhn, a member of the U.S. Ski Team since 2020. “Having family here makes it even more special, and it’s tough to feel unprepared.”

Kuhn, who lives in Park City, tried to make the most of the situation by spending quality time with her family and friends. “At the end of the day, we’re all in the same boat. I’ve focused on getting my body ready for the competition,” she added.

Fellow aerialist Karenna Elliot, who joined the team in 2022, found some positives in the canceled training sessions. “I welcomed the break after a busy time at Olympic Park, where we were pushing ourselves with new tricks. It was nice to have a day to recover,” she said.

The Deer Valley site presents challenges due to its tight transitions leading into jumps. “We definitely want as much training as we can get to work on that quick transition,” Elliot noted.

U.S. Freestyle Director Matthew Gnoza mentioned that the freezing overnight temperatures would allow for solid jumps during Thursday’s practice. “Shortened training time is not ideal, but our athletes are well-prepared,” he said. “They just need a quick warm-up.”

Kuhn and Gnoza emphasized the importance of keeping the team’s focus on the future, including the World Championships scheduled for March 30 and 31. “We need to remind everyone about our goals. The work we put in now will benefit us later,” Gnoza added.

Despite the tricky weather, Deer Valley is equipped to manage the courses effectively. “They are fully committed to providing a top-quality venue for our athletes,” Gnoza stated.

As training resumed Thursday, Kuhn reflected on the camaraderie within the team. She moved in with fellow aerialist Winter Vinecki when she first made the U.S. team at a young age. “That bond has been really important throughout my career,” she shared.

With some time away from training, Elliot enjoyed fishing and hanging out with her boyfriend. Kuhn took the opportunity to visualize her performance with her sports psychologist. “I’m super excited for Deer Valley. It’s always a fun experience, and I want to make the most of it,” Elliot said. “I’m not too nervous, but I do plan to try a new trick I’ve been working on. It’s going to be a great time.”