River Radamus Embraces Mindset Shift Ahead of 2026 Olympics

The Colorado-raised alpine skier is focused on the journey, not just the results.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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River Radamus, a 27-year-old alpine skier from Edwards, Colorado, is heading to the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina with a new mindset. After narrowly missing the podium in Beijing, Radamus has shifted his focus to embracing the process and growth of ski racing, rather than solely chasing results. He's also using his platform to give back through his ARCO Foundation, which supports young skiers in need of financial assistance.

Why it matters

Radamus' story highlights the mental and emotional challenges elite athletes face, especially leading up to the high-pressure environment of the Olympics. His shift in perspective offers a refreshing take on finding fulfillment in the journey, not just the destination. Additionally, his work with the ARCO Foundation demonstrates how successful athletes can use their platform to support the next generation and strengthen their local skiing community.

The details

Radamus, who was raised by two prominent ski coaches in Edwards, has spent over 250 days a year on the snow and 150-200 days in the gym, working towards the Olympics. After finishing fourth in the giant slalom in Beijing, just 0.26 seconds off the podium, Radamus realized he needed to reframe his approach. Instead of solely judging himself on results, he's focused on the incremental gains and growth that come from the year-round grind of ski racing. This mindset shift has freed him up mentally and allowed him to embrace the journey, rather than just chasing the Olympic dream.

  • Radamus narrowly missed the podium in the 2022 Beijing Olympics.
  • Radamus launched the ARCO Foundation in 2023 to support young skiers in need of financial assistance.
  • Radamus will compete in the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina.

The players

River Radamus

A 27-year-old alpine skier from Edwards, Colorado, who is heading to the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina.

ARCO (Alpine Racing Career Opportunities) Foundation

A nonprofit organization founded by Radamus in 2023 to provide financial assistance and support to young skiers.

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What they’re saying

“Ski racing is a year-round job. I spend 250-plus days on the snow; 150 to 200 days, I'm working out in the gym. And the job that I get graded on is less than an hour of work, total, throughout the season.”

— River Radamus, Alpine Skier (5280.com)

“If I only judge myself as a success or failure on that, then I'm going to have a lot of time where I'm really down on myself and I'm not enjoying the process.”

— River Radamus, Alpine Skier (5280.com)

What’s next

Radamus will compete in the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina, where he hopes to build on his previous Olympic experience and continue supporting young skiers through his ARCO Foundation.

The takeaway

Radamus' shift in mindset, from solely chasing results to embracing the journey of ski racing, serves as an inspiring example for athletes and individuals alike. His commitment to giving back through the ARCO Foundation also demonstrates the positive impact successful athletes can have on their local communities and the next generation of talent.