For any athlete, going to the Olympics is a big deal. But imagine if you’re going to the Olympics, and you’re also writing history as the first ever representative from a certain country to make it there.
That's the scenario for alpine skier Alex Astridge, who is set to become the first man to represent the UAE at a Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina 2026 next month. Joined by fellow skier Piera Hudson, Astridge is excited about being part of this historic milestone for the Emirates, a place he has called home his entire life.
“It's unreal. I've always been lucky enough to be part of the ‘first’ of almost everything when it comes to alpine skiing in the UAE,” the 19-year-old told The National from his training base in Ponte di Legno. “So, the elite programme, which was after level four in Ski Dubai. And then when the race programme was introduced, I was the first athlete there. And when the Ski Dubai sponsorship programme was introduced, I was also the first athlete there.
“But this is the first time where I'm part of, I'd say, something more. This isn't just alpine skiing. This is the entirety of not just winter sports, but it's something for the country. I mean, it’s crazy.
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