Meet Ella Nemec: The 2025/26 Katie Hensien Ski Racing Sponsorship Winner!

We are thrilled to announce that Ella Nemec is this year’s Katie Hensien Sponsorship Recipient! Ella is 13 years old and is from Mountain View, California. Her determination, team-oriented mindset, and excitement/drive about all things ski racing wowed us in her application. We are so excited to share more about Ella, as we know you will be just as impressed with her as we are! Watch Ella’s winning video HERE.

Why did you want this sponsorship?

A: I am applying for this sponsorship because I would really enjoy going to a Keely’s camp for the first time, and it would help my parents with the cost. I like how it’s all female coaches and athletes. Also, I would love to do a Zoom call with Katie Hensien because I admire her skiing, and I would like to learn more about her and her path to world cup ski racing. Furthermore, I love being outside, doing sports, taking care of my equipment, and maintaining good grades at school. 

What are your favorite things to do when you’re not skiing?

A: When I am not skiing, I love playing golf, running, surfing, wind surfing, tumbling, and weight lifting.

What are your goals for this season? 

A: My main ski racing goal for this season is to get top 15 in Western Regionals. To achieve this goal, I must keep on training hard and outside of my comfort zone. Furthermore, I must continue a healthy lifestyle (working out, eating healthy, and less screen time).

What is your main academic goal?

A: My main academic goal is to maintain straight A’s in all my classes and to study more to prepare me for next year in high school. Also, I would like to learn more about computer programming and the science of ski racing.

Congratulations again Ella, we can’t wait to have you at camp in 2026! Keep ripping it up.