Nicki Versus the Downhill
Nicki’s favorite Alpine skiing event is the downhill. She would never claim it herself (she’s far too modest), but she’s a veritable speed demon.
Speed is one of the six key components outlined by the International Ski Federation regarding the downhill. The other five are comprised of technique, courage, risk, physical condition, and judgment.
Nicki needs some assistance in just one of these areas: courage. Thankfully, there are some people here who are happy to help!
It’s the Nicki Fleming Fan Club, of course! Kit is a little nervous, but is cheering just as loudly as Jamie (JLY #37) and Christine (JLY #23). Probably louder, actually.
Nicki has completed her training runs, so it’s time for the official event. She has one shot at this, and she plans to make it count.
Nicki takes a deep breath and reminds herself that the biggest competition is herself. No one else intrudes in on her mental picture. She’s visualizing herself conquering the steep drop, and expertly navigating the long curves between the flags.
She takes a deep breath—and leaps!
Kit closes her eyes, but Christine nudges her.
Christine: “You’ve got to see this! She’s never looked better!” She makes sure to snap a slew of pictures as Nicki floats past the next turn.
Even still, Jamie holds her breath until Nicki maneuvers the final curvature.
Jamie: “That was incredible (and looked very scary, I’m not going to lie)!”
Kit: “I can’t believe it! I think she’s done it!”
Christine: “She’s in second place! And she’s set a new personal record for both time and speed!”
Nicki, breathing hard but beaming, joins her crew, amidst shouts of congratulations and happy whistles.
Christine: “You better be proud of yourself for that, or I’m going to have something to say!” (Christine is well aware of Nicki’s perfectionist tendencies, you see)
Nicki laughs. “Don’t worry, I am! I was really nervous, but as soon as I hit the first gate I felt like there was nothing I would rather be doing. It felt right.”
Kit: “May I have the honor of presenting you with your trophy!”
Nicki holds onto her trophy tightly. It’s not the trophy itself that makes her so excited, but knowing that she has earned it.
Jamie: “Nicki, will you teach me how to Alpine ski?”
Nicki: “I thought you’d never ask! We can build up to the parallel slalom event, I’ve always wanted to try that.”
Kit: “Christine and I will be taking lots of photos safely from the sidelines.”
Christine: “And providing snacks, don’t forget.”
Speaking of snacks— and, yup, they’re already gone. Caramel corn and hot chocolate does tend to have that sort of effect. Bye!
