Riders Spotlight: Astrid Cheylus, From Challenger Series Champion to FWT Standout

At just 21, Astrid Cheylus is already making a name for herself on the Freeride World Tour. Raised in the heart of the French Alps, Astrid’s journey began by following her family’s ski tracks, and now she’s carving her own path on the world’s biggest freeride stages. After winning the Region 1 Challenger Series in 2023, she joined the Tour and quickly rose to the top, finishing an impressive second overall in her rookie season. Balancing her business studies in Lausanne with an intense training regimen, Astrid is pushing the boundaries of her category, inspiring those around her and setting ambitious goals for the future. In this interview, Astrid shares her unique approach to competing, her Olympic dreams, and what she hopes to accomplish in the seasons ahead.

Starting skiing at three and deeply inspired by her father’s off-piste tracks and her brother’s journey under coach Seb Michaud, Astrid balances her business studies in Lausanne with her demanding Freeride training. Her regimen includes summer gym sessions, surfing on France’s west coast, and training on airbags and glaciers. With Michaud’s guidance, she prioritizes risk management, constantly strengthening to prevent injuries. Competing brings out her thrill for challenging lines, despite performance pressures. Off the slopes, Astrid finds balance in surfing, competing in kitesurfing, and journaling. She dreams of Olympic Freeride skiing, filming projects, and continuing to push her personal limits in the sport.

Inspiration, Family, and Early Challenges

What inspired you to start Freeride skiing, and who has been the biggest influence on your journey?

The biggest reason I’m in Freeride skiing is thanks to my father. I started skiing at age three, doing some alpine skiing, but then I followed my father’s off-piste tracks whenever I could. My brother also had a big role in inspiring me; he started competing in La Clusaz under Seb Michaud, an amazing coach there. Watching him compete on the Junior Tour motivated me to get into Freeride myself.

Balancing skiing and school must be challenging. What’s that been like for you?

My biggest challenge is juggling skiing and school. I study business at a school in Lausanne, Switzerland, and fortunately, I have a special schedule that lets me dedicate time to both. During the season, I focus on skiing and training, and in the off-season, I catch up on exams and coursework.

How do you prepare physically and mentally for the Freeride season?

My physical preparation is intense. During the summer, I’m in the gym, and I also spend a lot of time on the west coast of France surfing, which is part of my training routine. I work with a mental coach, too, which has been helpful not just for competitions but for everything else, including studies. Yoga and stretching help keep me grounded, and before the season starts, I train on the airbag in Leysin and on the glacier. I want to be as prepared as possible to prevent injuries.

Approach to Competition and Risk Management

What’s your mindset going into competitions?

I’m a competitive person, so of course I want to win. But I always choose a line that inspires me; it has to be something I’m excited to ski. When I hike up to the face, I’m visualizing my line and feeling that excitement. It’s really about having fun for me.

Do you feel pressure to perform at such a high level?

Yes, definitely. Last season, I worked really hard on my physical training. I’m always conscious of staying strong to prevent injury; it’s a big fear of mine. Being injured and unable to ski is one of my biggest worries, but knowing I’ve trained helps me manage that fear.

How do you manage risk on the mountain?

I’m fortunate to have Seb Michaud as my coach; he teaches us a lot about risk, avalanches, and how to recognize dangerous situations. We have training sessions focused on safety and knowing when to say no if something feels off. We also do a safety training week with Mammut in January. Being part of WeMountain has also given me extra opportunities to train and prepare.

With Manon Loschi not competing this season, how do you feel about heading into the Tour without her?

I’ve competed with Manon since juniors; we’ve shared so many memories and good times. I’m sad she won’t be here, but I know she’ll come back stronger.

Life Beyond Freeride and Future Aspirations

How do you unwind when you’re not on the mountain?

I love spending time on the water. Surfing and kitesurfing bring a balance to my life, and since last year, I’ve even started competing in kitesurfing! It’s exciting to discover a different world of competition and meet new people.

Is there anything you always bring with you on your trips?

My toothbrush! My father is a dentist, so dental hygiene is important to me. I also always bring my journal. Writing helps me process everything in my head and keep things clear.

What are your goals for this season and beyond?

Last year, my goal was just to make the cut. Now, I want to improve my skiing, complete runs that make me proud, and cross the finish line feeling like I pushed my limits. Long-term, competing in the Olympics is my biggest dream. With the possibility of Freeride being included, and with it potentially happening in France, that would be incredible. Beyond that, I’d like to explore filming and creative projects related to skiing.

Personal Connection to Freeride

What does Freeride mean to you on a personal level?

Freeride is my passion. It’s about freedom, being out there on the mountain, and feeling the adrenaline. Growing up in the French Alps, I was lucky to learn from the best and be in an environment that nurtured this love for the sport.

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