003 Konrad Bartelski: First British Male Skier to Stand on the Alpine World Cup Podium

Thinking Off-Piste

Konrad Bartelski is a former British Alpine Ski Racer who became the first male British downhill ski racer to stand on the Alpine Skiing World Cup podium. The skier and broadcaster turned professional photographer challenged the status quo by proving that it is possible for a man who is not from a privileged background to compete, and be successful, at beating the Austrian and Swiss at their own game.

He completed the downhill race in an incredible time of 2 minutes 7.52 seconds; missing first place by 0.11 seconds. Britain had never produced a successful male downhill racer, and Bartelski's performance resulted in the French television commentator saying, "Ce n'est pas possible! C'est un anglais!". The second placing result remained the highest placing by a Briton in any World Cup race, until it was equalled by Dave Ryding in 2017.

Konrad shares his story of passion, injury and determination with Becky; highlighting how he went beyond what was expected in order to prove that a male British downhill racer could stand on a World Cup podium.

Photo: Konrad racing in St Anton 1979 © Colorsport / Stewart Fraser
www.konradbartelski.photography
Instagram: @konradbartelski

Facebook: KonradBartelski

Thinking Off-Piste is brought to you by Mabey Ski, a Whistler-based adventure ski company creating bucket list ski trips across the globe. If you’re looking to get off the beaten track and away from the crowds, head over to mabeyski.com to discover what lies beyond your lift pass.

Follow on instagram: @beckylucyking