Freeskier Cassie Sharpe Juggles Motherhood at Third Olympic Games
Cassie Sharpe, a Canadian freeskier, is returning to competitive skiing while embracing motherhood. Known for her remarkable achievements in women’s halfpipe, Sharpe won an Olympic gold medal in PyeongChang 2018 and a silver in Beijing 2022. After starting a family, she believed her skiing career was over, but her passion for the sport has reignited.
New Beginnings at the Olympics
Sharpe became a mother in August 2023 when she welcomed her daughter, Louella Duke Dorey. Just five months post-birth, Sharpe found herself captivated by the X Games while holding her daughter. Reflecting on this experience, she felt an urge to return to skiing. “Maybe I’m not done,” she thought.
The Decision to Return
In January 2024, Sharpe made the pivotal choice to resume her skiing career. Conversations with her husband, Justin Dorey, also a halfpipe skier and competitor in the 2014 Winter Olympics, helped frame their approach to balancing family and sports. They explored the logistics of her return, including summer training in New Zealand.
Training Regimen Adjusted for Motherhood
As she embarked on her training journey, Sharpe adapted her regimen to fit her new role as a mother. She used her daughter’s growth as a motivating factor; once Louella reached 15 pounds, Sharpe matched that weight in her workouts. This practical strategy kept her focused on both her training and her responsibilities as a parent.
Combining Family Life with Competitive Aspirations
Sharpe’s dedication to her training is evident in her commitment to balance motherhood and sport. The gym for the Canadian national ski team is conveniently located 30 minutes from her home in Squamish, British Columbia. She often brings Louella with her, allowing her brother, Olympic snowboarder Darcy Sharpe, to care for her daughter during workouts.
Sometimes, Louella is seen playing in a Jolly Jumper while her mother trains nearby. This environment allows Sharpe to maintain her focus on both her family and her ambition in skiing.
Looking Ahead
Sharpe’s journey reflects the intersection of motherhood and professional sports. As she prepares for her third Olympic Games, her story resonates with aspiring athletes balancing personal and professional commitments. Cassie Sharpe is an inspiration, proving that passion and motherhood can co-exist beautifully.
