13-year-old Ingrid Gendron has a need for speed, which is altogether appropriate for one of Quebec's most promising ski racers.
Every turn on the hill gives Ingrid a rush, and it's pretty easy to see why the sport is right up her alley.
"The adrenalin just at the starting gate, you just can't think straight, you just have to go fast! And then you win! Because you go fast!" says Ingrid excitedly.
The teenager skis with the Mount Orford ski club and last year ranked first among Eastern Township skiers in her category.
Her favourite event is the slalom, and she credits her success to her love of the sport.
"It's just fun to be with everybody to be outside everyday and do your best," said Ingrid.
Her coach think she's fearless and determined.
"She's always willing to do another run even if she's cold, so that's fun because we can always push her," said Raphaelle Jacob. "We know she can handle some pressure and she's good during the race."
Ingrid's mother, Penny Tetreault, introduced her to skiing at a young age.
She says Ingrid was successful right from the get-go.
"She works hard! She trains maybe 23 hours a week and it's something that most of us wouldn't dare to try," said Tetreault.
That determination to work hard is because Ingrid knows it will pay off in ever-faster runs downhill.
"You know that when the race comes, you know your effort will pay off."
