Snowboarder, Maisie Potter, is only 16 years old, but she has already been crowned the British Champion in Snowboardcross. She is one to watch for the 2018 winter Olympics. We caught up with her just as the season began.

Wales is not known for snow sports; how did you get into it?

No, it is not — haha. I had a birthday party at Plas Y Brenin dry ski slope when I was six but nothing to get me hooked. It was during a couple of family ski holidays to the Alps that I learnt to ski and finally, I moved to Chamonix, France at the age of eight which got me into skiing, then about a year later I started snowboarding.

How do you juggle school work with training?

I’m not entirely sure…You have to be super organised with time, which I am not, but I select training camps and competitions depending on my workload or exams. When I am away during a half term, I will slowly crack away at my homework in the evenings like everyone else. When I am training or competing during the school term, I negotiate with my teacher to provide me the work which they will be covering in class. I also have to catch up when I get home. I think you have to be OK with not necessarily excelling in school and going down the academic route.

What do your friends think of your snowboarding prowess?

Er, my friends at home don’t really get to see me snowboard so I think it’s hard for them but most of them are quite supportive, interested and excited. I tend to have a different relationship with my school friends because they can’t quite relate to snowboarding. If they ask, I just simplify my training into something they can easily picture in their head.

What do you do to train in the summer?

I’ve never had a specific summer training programme until now because my bones hadn’t fully grown and it’s much better to cross train in all areas for overall fitness and health. I always go out on the glacier for approximately 2 weeks each summer and the odd session in Chillfactor. Otherwise, I enjoy running, mountain biking, wild swimming, trekking and gymnastics stuff! It is also very important to stretch so yoga, pilates etc.

Favourite Mountain or resort?

My favourite resort has to be either Avoriaz or Laax.

Do you ever get scared when coming to large jumps or trying a new trick? If so how do you deal with that?

Yes. I find big jumps pretty scary but then if I don’t do it, I will regret it. Also, I like being pushed and having that relief and achievement feeling after. However, I’m quite good at judging whether it is the right run or day to try something new. If I am riding well and going for a new jump or trick then I will always have a “bubble moment” of calm. Then the best thing to do from there is commit 100% and get the first one out of the way (safe hopefully).

What competitions are you doing this year?

I will be doing FIS and EC Boardercross competitions in preparation for the Junior Worlds (SBX) in Valmalenco, Italy in March and possibly the Halfpipe British Championships.

When you are not snowboarding what do you like to do?

I like to have time to myself, as much I enjoy socialising. I love the fresh air and being active as I feel so much better! I am not an indoor or a screen person that’s for sure.

Do you have any top snowboarding tips?

Enjoy it, stay relaxed and look cool. Don’t over think things too much as it is an instinctual sport. However, spend time getting the basics/ technique right.

What do you hope for the future?

My long term goal is the 2018 Winter Olympics in Boardercross.