UPDATE: After a two-year retirement, 2022 Olympian Hailey Swirbul is making a sensational comeback to the World Cup circuit. The El Jebel skier, known for her remarkable talent and previous accolades, is set to compete in her first race this winter at Kincaid Park in Anchorage next weekend.
Swirbul’s return comes at a pivotal time as she aims to secure her position for the upcoming 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics. Her last competitive appearance was on March 23, 2023, when she finished 26th in a 20K mass start in Lahti, Finland. At that time, Swirbul felt confident in her decision to step away from skiing, but after a summer of training alongside elite athletes, the spark to compete was reignited.
“I have a completely renewed perspective and mindset about getting to compete,” Swirbul stated, emphasizing how ski racing has become her passion once again. She previously sold most of her gear and transitioned to a coaching role, working with junior athletes at Alaska Pacific University (APU). However, the pull to return to competition proved too strong.
Swirbul’s journey back began after a lighthearted conversation with fellow Olympians Novie McCabe and Luke Jager, sparking thoughts of a comeback. Influenced by Oliver Burkeman’s book, “Four Thousand Weeks,” she realized the time to explore her limits was now.
“There’s a time limit on if I actually want to try and find the limits of what I can push my body and mind to do,” Swirbul remarked, showcasing her determination.
Her recent success in a 10K rollerski race at the Schutzenski Festival in Soldier Hollow further solidified her decision, where she triumphed over a competitive field despite her time away from professional training.
APU’s program director, Erik Flora, praised Swirbul’s natural ability and readiness for the challenge ahead. “Her overall fitness is good,” Flora said. “She has a strong base from a lifetime of training.”
As Swirbul prepares for her first FIS races of the winter, she is also setting her sights on the prestigious Tour de Ski event. If she excels over the upcoming races, she could secure a spot in this elite competition, adding to her Olympic aspirations.
The U.S. Ski Team is enthusiastic about Swirbul’s return. Chris Grover, U.S. Ski Team program director, expressed excitement, stating, “She’s someone we really like as a human being and like to spend time with.”
In a sport where pressure to succeed can be overwhelming, Swirbul reflects on her early retirement, attributing some of her decision to the isolating effects of the pandemic. “It was brutal… We were kids,” she said, acknowledging the challenges of competing during those years.
Now, as Swirbul embarks on this new chapter, she aims not just to qualify for another Olympic team but to embrace the journey itself. “I want to stay true to myself,” she affirmed, highlighting her desire for personal growth alongside athletic achievement.
With the first races approaching, the ski community eagerly anticipates Swirbul’s performance. Her return not only represents personal redemption but also adds depth to the U.S. women’s cross-country skiing team as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
Stay tuned for updates as Swirbul embarks on her comeback journey, aiming for success on the World Cup stage and beyond. The skiing world is watching closely!
