Image
My name is Tristan Weigelin and I love Snowboard Cross racing. I am 19 years old and have been snowboarding for 11 years. My focus this fall is training to compete at the World University Games in Torino, Italy in January 2025.
I remember cross-country skiing and downhill skiing with my parents when I was very young, but I always knew that I wanted to snowboard. Finally, at age 8 I got my first snowboard and have been shredding up mountains ever since! I started racing when I was 9 years old and won 1st in my first race at my local hill, Ski Martock in Nova Scotia. At age 14 I was selected to join the Nova Scotia Provincial Team. With the intensive training of a high-performance athlete I achieved significant milestones, including winning over 40 medals and being the provincial series champion in 2018, 2019 and 2022. However, the highlight of my career so far was being selected to represent Nova Scotia at the 2023 Canada Winter Games in Prince Edward Island. Although I did not podium at the event, I was extremely proud of my performances and finished in the top third in both of my races. I will use what I learned at the Canada Games as I prepare for the 2025 World University Games. Attending the Games is a significant honour and I look forward to representing my country at this prestigious event.
Snowboarding has shaped who I am, both on and off the slopes. As a competitive snowboard racer, I’ve faced moments that tested my limits, whether it was the pressure of a tight race or the frustration of a season with cancelled events and poor snow conditions. Patience became essential; I learned to trust the process and not rush my progress, understanding that true improvement takes time. Handling pressure in races taught me to stay calm and focused, skills that now serve me well in everyday challenges. Adaptability was another key lesson—weather can change in an instant, and the ability to adjust my strategy is crucial in every race. These experiences have guided me to become the person I am today. I’ve learned that patience, composure, and flexibility not only help me navigate the complexities of racing but also guide me through life’s unpredictable turns - turning challenges into opportunities for growth.
As an athlete going to the World University Games, I am required to pay for all expenses and with such a short time to prepare for the Torino Games, fundraising will be a key factor in the success I have on the slopes. I hope that through my partnership with Snow Athletes Canada, I will receive the support needed to raise money for coaching, registration and race fees as well as travel, accommodation and equipment, thus allowing me to focus on training and proudly representing Canada in Italy.
I thank you in advance for your generosity.
Please note that all donors will receive an official tax-deductible donation receipt.