Page 6 - SRCG_Spring_HTML_2010

Getting A

JumpStart

A Chicago-area athlete makes his
mark in the world of ski jumping

By Chris P. Peters
N
“Never be outworked by anyone.” This is a phrase that 21-year
old champion ski jumper Mike Glasder lives by.

In 2009 his athletic career included being medaled at the Junior
Olympics, winning twice overall in the USSA SuperTour, taking
12th place in a Continental Cup and 14th at World Juniors.

On Jan. 20 members of the U.S. Olympic
Ski Jumping team for Vancouver 2010 were announced.
Unfortunately, Glasder could not be a part of this year’s Winter
Games. The U.S. allowed only three spots based on a quota
system using World Cup results. He nearly made
the cut with a very close fourth place standing. Nevertheless,
having the chance to follow his dream was worth the effort.

“Moving away from home and training two times a day for five
to six days a week to pursue my goal is something that I had to
do,” he said.

As a member of the Norge Ski Club in Fox River Grove, Ill.,
Glasder has received support from the club’s involvement in his
training over the years. His success in ski jumping has been
aided by the ski club’s junior programs that guide young
jumpers to excel in their craft.

Since the age of 5, Glasder has made the Norge Ski Club his
base for training. Only a five-minute drive from his home in
Cary, the club has personal significance for him. It’s the place
he was first introduced to the sport that would impact his life for
years to come.

“Ever since I can remember I have been hooked on the rush
that is ski jumping,” said Glasder.
Photos by Rick Drew In January of 2008, after graduating from high school a semester
early, Glasder committed his efforts to ski jumping for a year and
a half. He moved out to Park City, Utah for summer training and

Olympic ski member Alan Alborn. Glasder made the Junior
Caption here on this line here Caption here on this improved upon his technique with the help of former 2002 U.S.
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