Bryce Bennett Leads American Downhill Skiers at Birds of Prey

As the U.S. men’s speed skiing team prepares for the upcoming Birds of Prey event at Beaver Creek, veteran skier Bryce Bennett is set to make his 11th appearance. At a recent press conference, the 33-year-old expressed a mix of nostalgia and anticipation, stating, “I can see the end is closer than the beginning.” Bennett joins teammates Ryan Cochran-Siegle and Jared Goldberg, both also 33 years old, in carrying the legacy of the “American Downhiller” brand, established by former Olympian Marco Sullivan.

Bennett and his fellow veterans hope to inspire a new generation of skiers, including 27-year-old Kyle Negomir, who represents the younger half of the team. Negomir noted the importance of learning from the experiences of the older athletes: “We’re trying to take in as much as we can from these guys and carry that legacy forward.” The camaraderie evident in the team showcases a commitment to uphold the traditions of American downhill skiing.

The legacy of the “American Downhiller” brand is marked not only by bold racing but also by a unique tradition. Sullivan and retired skier Steve Nyman initiated the gifting of a denim Levi vest to any American skier who finishes in the top 15 of a World Cup downhill event, beginning in 2015. Goldberg remarked, “It’s so American and we love it,” highlighting the pride associated with this custom. The vest tradition continues, although Goldberg mentioned it is “starting to run out of room” due to the number of recipients.

Bennett, Goldberg, and Cochran-Siegle reflect on the evolution of downhill skiing, acknowledging the generational differences in approach and training. Goldberg stated, “We were the try-hards for the guys before us, and now it’s just getting a little more try hard.” He reminisced about the era when skiers like Beat Feuz and Manny Osborne would walk out of the lodge with a casual demeanor, contrasting with today’s rigorous training regimes.

Cochran-Siegle, who won a silver medal in the super-G at the 2022 Winter Olympics, emphasized the importance of fostering a competitive spirit within the team. “We all believe in ourselves,” he said, reflecting on the underdog mentality that often energizes American athletes in major competitions. He aims to pass on knowledge to younger teammates like Negomir, who he believes has significant potential to excel in the sport.

While Negomir has primarily found success in super-G events, he acknowledges the influence of past American skiing legends on his career. “A lot of kids in my generation started ski racing because we watched those guys,” he explained, recalling the thrill of observing athletes tackle challenging courses like Kitzbuhel.

As the team focuses on qualifying for the 2024 Winter Olympics in Italy, the athletes are committed to continuing the tradition of excellence in American downhill skiing. Bennett expressed hope that the legacy they are building will inspire future generations: “I hope I’m a little bit a part of that legacy.” Cochran-Siegle added, “Hopefully through time he’s the top guy and we’re all out swinging golf clubs,” referring to Negomir’s potential future success in the sport.

The upcoming Birds of Prey event will not only serve as a platform for competition but also as a stage for the rich history and tradition of American downhill skiing to thrive. As these athletes prepare to compete, they carry with them a sense of responsibility to honor their predecessors while paving the way for those who will follow.