Marianna Jagerčíková, a 40-year-old ski mountaineer, is not as famous as some of her compatriots like Petra Vlhová, but she is among the best in the world in ski mountaineering sprint events. Her late start at the age of 27 is something she considers advantageous, as she believes that had she started younger, the pressure of a long career might have taken a toll on her mentally. Jagerčíková holds one of the highest VO2 max levels in the world, which allows her to compete fiercely with much younger opponents.

In her interview, she discusses various aspects of her life and career, including her strategies for managing stress before competitions and her thoughts on the recent disqualification of fellow athlete Jakub Šiarnik from Dukla. Jagerčíková also touches on her reasons for living in France long-term, as well as her experiences racing in extreme weather conditions, including at temperatures as low as minus 25 degrees Celsius. Her unique perspective on training and competition, given her age and experiences, contributes to a compelling narrative in the realm of ski mountaineering, showcasing resilience and dedication.

Heading into the Milan-Cortina Olympics, Jagerčíková’s achievements may shine a light on her and the sport as a whole, proving that success can come at any age. Her story serves as motivation for many aspiring athletes, suggesting that it's never too late to pursue one's passions, especially in a demanding field like ski mountaineering.