Name: Ollie Neil
Age: 17
Club: @calgaryfreeriderz
Sponsors: Liberty Skis and Mountain Cultures
Meet Ollie Neil, a 17-year-old who competes with the Alberta Park & Pipe team. After a tough year sidelined due to injury, he’s ready to make a serious comeback this season. His main goal? To stay healthy and rack up some strong competition results, especially after missing last year’s circuit due to a broken collarbone. And if the opportunity presents itself, he’s aiming to land a 3 double slope run—a huge milestone for any skier at his level.
Though last season was a washout for him, Ollie hasn’t forgotten the thrill of competing. The Stoneham NorAm from two seasons ago was a major highlight, where he cracked the top 10 in a highly competitive field. It’s moments like that which keep him motivated to push harder and go further.
Interestingly, Ollie prefers to ski in silence. While some athletes rely on music to get in the zone, he finds peace in hearing nothing but the sound of his skis on the snow. When it comes to pre-comp rituals, he keeps it simple—no superstitions or routines, just a good night’s sleep to make sure he’s fresh for the day ahead.
“The main goal for this season is to stay healthy and put some solid competition results, since I missed the whole comp circuit last season,” he said. “Completing a 3-double slope run is another goal if I get the chance.”
Skiing is his only competitive focus, but in the off-season, you’ll find him enjoying rounds of golf or hitting the streets on his skateboard. And like any young skier with dreams of greatness, he looks up to legends like the Wells brothers, whose effortless style has left a mark on the sport. Watching skiers like Matej push the boundaries with new tricks also inspires him to keep evolving and find his own path in the world of freestyle skiing.
This season, Ollie is ready to reclaim his spot on the slopes. Follow his journey and watch out for what’s next!