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First named to the U.S. Ski Team in high school, Rosie Brennan dominated the 2015 SuperTour and earned rights to race in Europe, including at World Championships where she finished 16th in the 30 k classic. After a six-year absence she was renamed to the national team after that winter and has been there ever since, including finishing her first Tour de Ski last season and skiing scramble for the U.S. women’s relay team, which finished third in the World Cup in Lillehammer, Norway. Brennan, 27, is based in Anchorage, where she is part of the Alaska Pacific University elite team.
1. Biggest change in your life in the last five or so months since the ski season ended?
For the first time since I was 18, I (kinda) lived outside college housing thanks to my boyfriend renting an apartment.
2. Biggest change in your training?
I trained a bit more than last year, otherwise things have been pretty similar.
3. Major areas of improvement you’ve seen so far?
I am happy with the improvements I have made in double poling and pure speed.
4. Whom you’ve been working closest with this offseason (coaches or training partners)?
I spent the majority of the summer in Alaska training under Erik Flora with my APU teammates.
5. Best trip in the last five months (and why)?
Going to the wedding of one of my best friends from college. Nothing beats time with good friends.
6. Favorite cross-training?
Biking
7. Favorite non-athletic activity or pastime this summer?
I started a little garden at APU and was able to harvest quite a few vegetables!
8. Song that was your jam this summer?
I have to admit that I was a little nerdy this summer and listened more to podcasts than music.
9. All-time favorite race moment?
I think my favorite race moment is still the first time I won a Junior National Championship. It was the first time in my life I truly believed I could accomplish anything I set my mind to.
10. First thing you pack in your bag when you leave for Europe?
Teddy
11. Venue/event you’re most excited to visit this season?
La Clusaz. I have never been to France!
12. Who will win the World Cup title this year?
Bjoergen and Sundby, boring I know.
13. Biggest sacrifice you feel you’ve made choosing this career path?
Financial stability and being more or less homeless.
14. If you could change one thing about your sport, what would it be?
More racing in the U.S. and more financial support.
15. What did you have for breakfast this morning?
Same thing every morning: Everything bagel, raspberry jam, 2 fried eggs
16. In 5 years, I’ll be ____?
Getting another degree or teaching
17. In 50 years, I’ll be ____?
Retired and adventuring
