Meet Lara Markthaler: From Youth Olympics to the World’s Biggest Stage
Lara Markthaler, Class of 2026, chose USPA for the flexibility she needed to train, travel, and compete at the highest level — all while staying fully committed to her academics.
About Lara Markthaler
Lara Markthaler is an elite alpine skier and USPA senior who is officially taking her talents to the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games. After a standout performance at the 2024 Winter Youth Olympics, Lara proved she was ready for the senior competitive stage. She will represent South Africa in both Slalom and Giant Slalom, continuing her rapid rise in the world of alpine skiing.
What was school like before USPA?
Before joining USPA, Lara trained intensively year‑round, often traveling across countries for competition blocks and training camps. A traditional brick‑and‑mortar school made balancing academics with high‑performance skiing extremely difficult. Managing missed classes, catching up on coursework, and juggling stress competed with her focus on the slopes.
Why did Lara join USPA?
Lara needed a school that offered true flexibility, allowing her to structure her academics around her training — not the other way around. With USPA, she gained:
- A fully adaptable academic schedule that shifts with her training needs
- The ability to focus completely on her performance without worrying about falling behind
- A clear, calm mental space, essential for success on the mountain
- The freedom to adjust her schoolwork based on weather, energy levels, or competition schedules
USPA offered her the balance required to excel academically while pushing her skiing to new heights.
What’s next for Lara Markthaler?
Lara is preparing to represent South Africa at the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Slalom and Giant Slalom — a major milestone for any athlete, and a testament to the years of discipline and determination she has put into her sport.
Her remarkable progress this past winter — one of her biggest learning curves and best seasons yet — is a strong indicator of the success still ahead.
My experience with USPA has been really good in comparison to a regular brick‑and‑mortar school. I have a lot more flexibility, which allows me to train a lot more, and it lets me have a much clearer mind when I ski because I don’t have to worry about falling behind. Since I train so much, I don’t have anything else in my head except what I have to do in my next training run, so it’s been really great. This past winter I had one of my biggest learning curves ever—one of my best winters—and I don’t think that would have been possible if I couldn’t split my school and training the way I do. I can adjust everything to whatever’s going on, whether it’s raining or if I’m tired.” — Lara Markthaler
Is online school right for you?
Online learning isn’t just a trend—it’s a flexible, personalized approach to education that empowers students to thrive. At USPA, we provide:
- Flexibility to learn at your own pace and schedule.
- Personalized support from experienced teachers and learning coaches.
- Access to diverse courses that fit your interests and goals.
- A safe, inclusive environment for every learner.
If you’re looking for a school that adapts to your needs and helps you succeed, USPA might be the perfect fit.
