Zak Carrick-Smith is an 18-year-old alpine ski racer representing Great Britain, and one of the sport’s most exciting young talents. Born and raised in the French Alps, Zak grew up in Tignes, where life on the slopes quickly became second nature.
Introduced to skiing at a young age, Zak first joined the local French ski school — but it didn’t take long for his competitive instincts to push him beyond the conventional path. Recognising his potential, his parents, both deeply rooted in the skiing world, decided to take on his coaching themselves. His mother, a four-time Olympian, and his father, founder of a successful ski school in the Alps, provided the perfect foundation for his development both technically and mentally.
Their approach has clearly paid off. Zak’s 2023/24 season marked a major breakthrough as he claimed three Youth Olympic medals in South Korea — an achievement that has cemented his reputation as one to watch on the international stage.
Now, with his focus firmly set on European Cup and World Cup competition, Zak Carrick-Smith continues to chase speed, precision, and excellence, driven by the same passion for skiing that began on the slopes just outside his front door.