Great Britain's celebrated Winter Olympian Dave Ryding, often hailed as a 'one in a million' athlete, officially brought his illustrious career to a close on Monday in Bormio, Italy. Competing in the men's slalom at the Milan Winter Olympics, the 39-year-old skier secured a 17th-place finish in what marked his fifth and final appearance at the Games.
A Remarkable Journey from Pendle to the Podium
Ryding's path to Olympic glory was anything but conventional. He began his skiing journey on a dry slope in Pendle, Lancashire, defying the odds to become the first British athlete to win an alpine World Cup race. His historic victory at Kitzbuhel in 2022 stands as a testament to his perseverance and skill, reshaping the narrative of British winter sports.
Retirement Decision and Legacy
In the aftermath of his final race, Ryding firmly dismissed any speculation about postponing his retirement. He expressed pride in his career and hope that his unprecedented rise would inspire future generations of British alpine skiers.
"I have no regrets," Ryding stated emphatically. "I will never look back thinking, 'what if?' or 'Did I stop too soon?' I gave it my all until the very last gate. My story was totally unique—a one in a million shot—but it proves that you can do it. I will walk away as happy as I can be with what I have achieved."
Inspiring a New Generation
Throughout his career, Ryding accumulated seven World Cup slalom podiums, moving British winter sports beyond the era of plucky underdogs like Eddie The Eagle. His success has ignited belief in a new wave of alpine athletes, including his compatriot Billy Major, who finished just one place ahead of Ryding in 16th at the Milan Games.
Major, 29, competing in his second Olympics, paid tribute to Ryding's influence. "The highlight of my own career is still watching Dave win at Kitzbuhel in 2022," Major said. "I will never forget that day. He has shown that anyone can succeed with the right work ethic and support. Dave is an absolute legend, and I am extremely grateful to have worked alongside him for so many years. It is something I will treasure for the rest of my life."
Challenging Conditions in Milan
The slalom event in Bormio presented formidable challenges, with blizzard conditions during the first run causing more than half of the 95 starters—including athletes from nations like Benin, the UAE, and Guinea Bissau—to fail to finish. Ryding and Major managed to position themselves just outside the top 10 after the initial run, but their hopes of breaking into the top tier were dashed in the second run, despite clearer skies.
Switzerland's Loic Meillard ultimately claimed the gold medal after first-run leader Atle McGrath missed a gate, underscoring the unpredictable nature of alpine skiing.
Life After Competition
With his Olympic career now behind him, Ryding plans to return home to Lancashire for a well-deserved break. However, he admitted that skiing will remain an integral part of his life.
"My life is ski racing, and I'm sure I will stay very close to the sport," Ryding added. "I might focus on improving my Park Run time, but I look forward to waking up without worrying about sleep or diet. It's time for a new chapter."
Dave Ryding's retirement marks the end of an era for British winter sports, but his legacy as a trailblazer and inspiration for aspiring athletes will endure for years to come.
