We caught up with "jumper" McKenna Peterson in the Subaru Freeskiing World Tour post-season to chat about competiting in big mountain, being a girl and dealing with the inherent risk factor. McKenna had a great season on the 09/10 Tour, she qualified for the World Championships Finals and ended up 12th overall for Tour points. Congrats McKenna, we can't wait to watch you in 2011! —Leah Fielding, Associate Editor

What peaked your interest in big mountain comps? Why? What motivated you to enter into your first comp?
I started hearing about a couple boys from my home town slaying these big mountain comps, and decided to just go for it. I was lucky enough to have Andy Sabatier and Chris Tatsuno take me under their wing that first year and show me the ropes. 

What were you feeling the first time you dropped in? Has that feeling changed over time with more experience?
My first competition was the Crested Butte extremes when I was 19 years old. I had never even seen terrain that steep let alone skied down it. I was so nervous, I vomited on top of the venue. After 30-plus comp runs later, I have learned to turn those nerves into adrenaline, to which I have become completely addicted.

How do deal with the risk factor that comes with big mountain territory?
There is a huge risk that comes with the sport, we all know and have accepted that risk. I try to continuously make calculated decisions and am always aware of what is around me. While inspecting I do analyze the potential dangers of falling in the wrong places, and then I make sure it doesn't happen.

Have you scared yourself in comps? What was the worst time you scared yourself?
I have definitely had my fair share of crashes and sketchy situations. I believe we all have. But, the fear is part of the rush. It is the best feeling in the world to absolutely crush a line that originally scared the s**t out of you.

What is the most rewarding aspect of these comps?
For me, the most rewarding aspect of these comps is to see the progression in women's skiing. Over the last three years, I have watched these women take big mountain skiing to a whole new level. The gap between the level of skiing in the men's and women's field is growing smaller with every competition. I am so grateful and proud to be able to say I have been a part of this evolution.

Do you have a particular favorite Subaru FWT comp? Where? Why?
Kirkwood, hands down. We are so lucky we have the opportunity to ski something that no one else is ever allowed to. The infamous Cirque is a beautiful, big, intimidating venue that fits my style of skiing perfectly. Wonderful place.

Is there any particular reason you choose the Subaru FWT over other competitions?
I have competed in other competitions throughout the years, I have actually had my best results at the non FWT events. The Subaru FWT events have the most athletes, highest level of competition, and best camaraderie. We are huge family of crazy kids with a shared passion for skiing, how could anyone not want to be a part of that?

What brings you back year after year?
I have been on the tour for 3 seasons, and it has been the best time of my life. I get to ski the best resorts with my best friends, while constantly pushing myself and improving. It is a wonderful experience, I am so grateful.

As a competitor what style of skiing do you feel wins the most among the women? Aggressive, fluid skiing always takes the cake. I have seen some female winning runs that could definitely compete with the men.

In light of all the recent blows to women’s freeskiing—Dew Tour cutting a bunch of women’s park skiing—do you feel there is more or less room for women to grow in the big mountain skiing compared to other free skiing events?
I feel there is a ton of room for women's skiing to grow in big mountain events. We are stepping it up more and more every year. The level of skiing is so high that from a spectators perspective the females are just as exciting to watch as the males.

What is your opinion of female camaraderie in big mountain comps? Is it supportive or catty?
Our camaraderie is 100% supportive. The women I compete against are my mentors, idols, and best friends. We are all encouraging and share excitement for whomever comes out on top. It is a great environment to be a part of.

Do you view your male counterparts as inspiration or as completely separate from yourselves during the comps? Do male accomplishment dictate female accomplishments in big mountain skiing, or do you think female accomplishments inspire other females?
Our male counterparts are completely inspiring as well as helpful. They help guide us and give us the confidence to go bigger and ski faster. I know we all watch the men ski and think to ourselves "Wait a minute, I can do that too." Then we go try it. I am especially inspired when a woman goes for a move only seen done by the men and stomps it, like Crystal Wright on North Baldy or Janina in Kirkwood.

Do you prefer to free ski with girls or guys?
I enjoy freeskiing with both men and women. I mostly ski with men solely because there are WAY more of them around, but, one of my favorite perks of the tour is that I get the chance to rip around with the best female skiers on the planet.