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Josh Daiek

the assassin

Josh was born in the suburbs of Detroit, Michigan where he was raised with strong values, determination and motivation. Today, that same drive propels him into the mountains where he spends most of his time. He currently lives in Lake Tahoe, California and skis for Salomon, Oakley, Dakine, Discrete and more.

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Q&A

1.) You went from competing in the FWT to filming for Salomon Freeski TV. How has that transition been?

This will be my first season in almost 10 years that I will not be competing. I'm really looking forward to stepping back from competition and focusing more time and energy into film and photo shoots. This is something I've always wanted to do, but never really had the proper contacts or opportunities. That said, I'm excited for a fresh start and the new opportunities that lie ahead!

2.) What have been some of your toughest challenges this past season? How did you overcome them?

The toughest challenge I've faced in skiing is being injured. Overcoming an injury can be very draining both physically and mentally. It's important to keep a positive attitude. To get back on that horse you have train hard and surround yourself with positive people and positive energy.

3.) Favorite mountain to shred?

There are so many sick places to ski in this world, my favorites are Kirkwood Mountain Resort and Revelstoke.

4.) Favorite Discrete product?

Scooba beanie

5.) Who are some of your favorite people to follow on Instagram?

@mosshalladay and @rockieschick22 they are both posting rad images all the time!

6.) When and where did you learn to ski? Who did you learn from?

I grew up in the suburbs of Detroit where there are no mountains and very little snow. Oddly enough there is a die hard ski following there. Land fills and small hills have been converted to ski resorts with man made snow, rope tows and chairlifts. My parents taught me to ski at a young age on these tiny hills. I quickly developed a passion and love for the sport as a youngster.

7.) Which athletes did you admire most growing up, and who do you look up to now?

Growing up I was enchanted with MSP films. I idolized the New Canadian air force team, Seth Morrison and Shane McConkey. They all had a heavy influence on my skiing when I was a teenager. Some of my favorite skiers these days are guys like Chris Rubens, Mark Abma, JP Auclair…I look up to skiers with a positive attitude, not to mention these guys make skiing look effortless and easy. I like to see skiers with lots of style and finesse in their riding, that's what I really try to emulate in my skiing.

8.) Sponsors?

Salomon, Discrete, Clif Bar, Oakley, Back Country Access, Kirkwood Mountain Resort, Mountains Calling