Taking the lead on skis...

When I ski on my own, I pick the place and dictate both path and pace. When I ski with other aggressive skiers, and if – God forbid – I must follow them, I become much more defensive, I tense-up and generally end up skiing under my real potential.

When I'm on my own, I have very little stress and no pressure at all; my whole energy, albeit limited by age, goes entirely to fuel my skiing. So, here you have it; my skiing can't afford any competitive pressure, especially if it appears to be clearly above my current means!