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It is said that the apple doesn't fall far from the tree and in the case of Francesca English it seems to be true.  Francesca, from the age of 16 months took to the thrill of skiing as if it were an innate part of her being.  As if she was some descendant of a long line of natural born skiers.  In fact, she is.

Francesca's mother is Tamara McKinney, America's first woman to win the coveted Overall World Cup title, and add to that a World Championship title, and countless podium wins.  Francesca's late uncle, Steve McKinney earned the bad boy reputation as a downhiller on the US Ski Team and a world record holder in speed skiing.  Her aunt Shelia, was an up and coming ski team competitor in slalom and GS.

Miss English has dedicated her life around the challenge of being the best skier she can be.  She started by combining her junior and senior high school year into one so that she could compete and train full time.  Her workout ethic is focused with two sessions per day, totaling 5 hours daily.  Another demonstration of Francesca's commitment is her diet and sleep routine.  Everything she does is designed to increase her energy and stamina so that she can make the most of her workout and conditioning program.  The program is a blend of healthy diet, 8 to 10 hours of sleep, cardio, weight lifting, balance and agility.

Francesca receives support through Rossignol racing with skis and ski boots, Leki provides her with poles.  Granite Chief has for many years worked with her boot fitting and boot performance and has recently stepped up by helping out with Poc helmets and goggles.  She is the sort of athlete that companies like to work with.  For one her passion for skiing and competing is top shelf and she is the kind of person that stands by her sponsors and supporters.  She understands that success in skiing takes a team working together to dial in all aspects of performance.

The cost of travel, lodging, training and shipping gear from one race to another is off the charts.  Even with the help of her loyal team of supporters there is still a need for additional funding.  Francesca has started a GoFundMe campaign seeking donations of any amount to help her continue her dream of ski racing and following in the footsteps of her family of committed competitors.  She is a fun, spirited and appreciative young woman, join in and be a part of her growth and success.

Help a local athlete chase her dreams. Donate to Francesca's GoFundMe.

Francesca's 2015-2016 Season Highlights

  • 9 individual overall FIS podiums
  • Nor Am points (at least top 30) in every event, including a top 10
  • Ranked top 6 in country in her age group in 4 events
  • Lowered all FIS points by double digit margins
  • Awarded Best Female U19 by the Lake Tahoe Ski Club Foundation