Among many other things, Piera Hudson has been representing New Zealand in places most have never touched nor seen.
- 10TH MARCH 2022
- TEXT: FUTURE CO
- IMAGERY: SOURCED
- 4M READ
A professional Alpine Skier, Piera Hudson runs us through some of the physical challenges that come with the sport, her thoughts on meditation & the importance of sleep.
Firstly, for those who don’t know, can you introduce yourself, background & what you do?
My name is Piera Hudson and I'm an alpine ski racer on the New Zealand National Ski Team. I grew up in Hawke's Bay but got into skiing down in the South Island when I was about 4 years old. I was scouted for racing when I was 8 years old and have since done 36 back-to-back winters. Now I compete on the Alpine World Cup circuit.
What are some of the physical challenges that come with Alpine Skiing that most people would be unaware of?
There are a lot of injuries in the sport, when you combine speed, g forces, ice, and sharp ski edges with only a thin layer of spandex and some padding to protect you its not uncommon for accidents and crashes to happen but it's also what makes it fun and exciting.
Being lucky enough to travel all over the world, what are some of the highlight places you’ve ski’d?
I've definitely been hugely lucky to see some of the most beautiful mountain ranges and views, nothing beats skiing back home but I think people who have been would agree Japan is amazing from the snow to the food, the people, and their culture. It's a special place for sure! I would also have to mention the Italian Dolomites, it takes your breath away every time so it's exciting that the 2026 Olympics will be set in Cortina, Italy.
We have a phrase: Conductive Repetition, improving oneself through consistency and persistence. What are some things you’re working towards in the near future?
I always like to have small and big goals on the go as I believe achieving the small ones will add up to achieving the big one(s). For me right now my small goals are being more consistent with my sleep schedule and practicing meditation every day, it can be really easy to let those things slide when I'm on the road a lot or my day to day schedule looks different every day but I know they play a huge role in my overall success. I still have a few more World Cup races to compete in this season but I'm also looking forward to and working towards the 2023 World Championships in Meribel, France next year.
