One thing Lucas Braathen can teach all of us

One could argue that Lucas Pinheiro Braathen was at his very best in season 2022/23.

He was so good that only 17 days after his appendix surgery he came close to winning a medal in slalom in World Championships in Meribel. At the of the season he lifted a slalom crystal globe after fierce battle with Henrik Kristoffersen. Results in giant slalom and potential he showcased in super-g (7th place in Beaver Creek) gave him every right to consider himself a contender for Overall win.

Then, a day before the opening race in Solden 2023, his conflict with Norwegian ski federation got to a boiling point.

For Lucas, continuing to obey stiff Norway rules on private sponsors wasn't an option. He announced the end of his skiing career. Few months later though, somewhat expected announcement came - Lucas will continue to race for Brazil, homeland of his mother.

Still, one whole season he was on the sidelines, even though he knew he was one of the best alpine skiers in the world.

You can not be a fan of his painted nails and fashion choices, but you can't turn a blind eye on the amount of courage he puts into doing things his way. And to show us it's worth fighting for what you truly believe in, even if it means taking a step, or two, back. Being that good in alpine skiing, as Lucas Pinheiro Braathen is, makes it quiet a bit easier though.