THE LIFT-BORNE has had the honor of supplying clothing to the BMA team, currently training and racing in Europe as they prepare to take on the classic slopes of Kitzbühel. We had the opportunity to sit down for a brief chat before they set off.
Interviewer (THE LIFT-BORNE):
THE LIFT-BORNE has had the honor of supplying clothing to the BMA team, currently training and racing in Europe as they prepare to take on the classic slopes of Kitzbühel. We had the opportunity to sit down for a brief chat before they set off.
Burke Mountain Academy (BMA):
“Ski racing is at the heart of everything we do. We’re constantly asking ourselves how we can continue to push the limits to be the best ski academy out there. That means evolving and adapting to give our athletes every opportunity to succeed. This year, every athlete will get the chance to train at our second location in Sterzing, Italy, which offers even more access to world-class facilities. With our training hill on Burke Mountain and a close-knit community, BMA is where athletes can truly grow and thrive.”
THE LIFT-BORNE:
Your athletes, the “Burkies,” are renowned worldwide. What do you think is the key to their success on the slopes?
BMA:
“It’s a combination of factors. First, we instill a strong sense of discipline and work ethic in all our athletes. Second, we have an exceptional coaching staff—not only are they incredibly experienced, but several, including our Sport Director Jesse Hunt '83, are BMA alumni. They understand the process firsthand and are deeply committed to developing the next generation of athletes. And third, we focus on mindset—helping athletes build resilience and confidence to perform under pressure.”
THE LIFT-BORNE:
How do you balance academics and intense training schedules?
BMA:
“IWe’re a ski academy first—ski racing is at the core of everything we do. Our faculty is skilled at teaching in a way that supports the unique needs of our athletes, especially during the winter when training and racing are a priority. Balance is key, and our academic system is designed to align with our athletes' racing ambitions. Our academic calendar is structured to accommodate training and competition, and our teachers work closely with students to ensure they stay on track. Time management is something we emphasize early on, so our athletes learn to balance their academic and athletic commitments”
THE LIFT-BORNE:
With the Burkies currently in Europe preparing for Kitzbühel, what’s the focus during this stage of the season?
BMA:
“The focus is on refining technical skills, perfecting race strategies, and staying physically and mentally sharp. Kitzbühel is one of the most iconic courses in the ski racing world, so it’s an incredible opportunity for our athletes to test their skills against some of the best in the world.”