From Crested Butte to the World Stage
In a world dominated by traditional pathways and predictable progressions, Tanner Perkins stands out as a rare and refreshing outlier. Embarking on a journey that began at the Powderhorn ski slopes and saw a significant milestone when his family relocated to Crested Butte, Tanner’s rise to the top of the ski racing circuit defies all odds.
The Battle Through Aspen Valley and Financial Hurdles
Tanner’s path was anything but straightforward. From living in a van while training at the Aspen Valley Ski Club to putting his racing dreams on hold for a paramedicine degree at the University of Utah, his journey is a testament to resilience and dedication. His comeback in the Junior World Championships turned heads, earning him a partial scholarship for Montana State University and rekindling his competitive spirit.
Conquering the NorAm Cup: Victory Waning in Inconvenience
During his time with Montana State, Tanner juggled academia and the rigorous demands of the NorAm Cup circuit. Self-funded and driven by passion, he tackled events in Canada and Maine, incurring substantial debt. However, the culmination of his efforts came at the Sugarloaf race, where his performance in the Super G captured a second-place overall finish, punching his ticket to the esteemed World Cup circuit.
The Winning Formula: Collegiate Camaraderie and Sheer Grit
According to The Crested Butte News, college has been more than just an educational journey for Tanner – it provided the grounding and camaraderie that pumped life into his skiing ambitions. “Being in college has helped me loosen up a bit… good group of guys, good teammates and a good coach,” he notes, attributing his Super G prowess to this unique environment.
Awaiting the Roster Announcement: A Time of Hope and Determination
With eyes set on the World Cup and a strong foothold in the Super G category, Tanner Perkins awaits the final nod from the US Ski Team’s 2025⁄2026 roster announcement. “I’ve met the criteria to be on the team but I’m an outlier,” he reveals with cautious optimism. Acknowledging the essential support required for an athlete of his caliber, Tanner’s ambition to excel remains unshaken.
A Glimpse Towards Nationals and Beyond
Although the upcoming US Nationals in Vail bid him the chance to showcase his skill, Tanner remains laser-focused on what truly matters: his World Cup debut. The outcome of the Nationals might be inconsequential for the World Cup but expect nothing short of his best. “I’m really excited and now’s the time. I want to go out there, bust my ass and ski well.”
Perkins’ story serves as a stirring reminder that the road less traveled can still lead to greatness. With the same steely determination that has brought him this far, Tanner enters the next chapter of his career, ready to conquer the world stage.
