Team GB Skier Shares Personal Journey Ahead of Winter Olympics
Team GB freestyle skier Makayla Gerken Schofield has candidly discussed her love life and career as she prepares for the Winter Olympics in Turin, Italy. The 26-year-old moguls specialist, a two-time Olympian from Essex, is balancing her athletic ambitions with a newfound romantic happiness.
A 'Slow Burn Romance' Blossoms
When asked about her current relationship status, Gerken Schofield laughed warmly and confirmed she is in a happy partnership. She described it as a "slow-burn romance" with a man she has known for seven years, initially meeting on a Tinder date before reconnecting last winter. Her partner, a former snowboarder turned bike mechanic, understands the demands of elite sport, providing crucial support.
Gerken Schofield, who identifies as pansexual, emphasized that labels do not define love. "I didn't particularly think the label mattered. Who you are is who you are, and that's absolutely fine," she stated, reflecting her open and inclusive outlook.
Coming Out and Inspiring Others
Her journey to self-acceptance included coming out to her parents in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, which she handled in a low-key manner by simply bringing her girlfriend home. Her parents responded with unconditional support, saying, "OK, as long as you're happy, then we're happy."
Since then, Gerken Schofield has become a proud advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. After the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, she received messages from young people inspired by her openness to come out themselves. "It brought me to tears. The fact that I'm able to inspire younger people to actually be proud of who they are is... it's incredible," she shared emotionally.
From Childhood Passion to Olympic Dreams
Born in Chelmsford, Gerken Schofield's skiing journey began at age four on a family holiday in Val Thorens. Her love for the sport led her family to move to the French Alps when she was six, a challenging transition that built her resilience. "As a child, you don't particularly realise what's going on. The scariest part was going somewhere where I didn't know the language!" she recalled.
Skiing became a family affair, with her training alongside her siblings. At 16, British Ski & Snowboard approached her about competing on the World Cup circuit, marking the start of her serious athletic career. However, she highlighted the sacrifices involved, including extensive travel and time away from loved ones. "At the end of the day, we aren't robots—we're human beings, like everyone else," she noted.
Overcoming Injury and Finding Joy
Gerken Schofield's path has not been without obstacles. Over the past two years, she battled a serious knee injury from a cyst on her ACL, requiring surgery last summer. "That wasn't easy... Coming out of surgery and not being able to physically bend my knee—that hit me quite hard. There were a lot of tears," she admitted. Yet, her passion for skiing kept her going. "I didn't want to give up. I love the sport," she affirmed.
Recovery is ongoing, with icy conditions still testing her knee, but she remains philosophical. "It's part of the process. It's never going to be 100% perfect," she said. As she heads to the Winter Olympics, her goals have shifted from just medals to rediscovering joy and confidence in skiing. "It's more about finding that joy in skiing again. And the confidence. Just taking every moment in," she explained.
Support Systems and Future Aspirations
Key to her perseverance is support from her partner, family, friends, and National Lottery funding, which she credits for making her career possible. "Without that funding, what I'm doing would be impossible. They help fund coaching, physios and facilities. It takes such a weight off your shoulders, mentally—and allows me to do what I love," she revealed.
Off the slopes, Gerken Schofield enjoys creative pursuits like art, visiting museums, and nail art, even considering opening her own nail studio someday. For now, her focus is on the Winter Olympics. She hopes her story encourages others to embrace their journeys. "Embrace the journey. Because as I've learned, every struggle will make you grow," she concluded with a smile.
