by Oliver Trust
BERLIN, March 5 (Xinhua) -- Anna-Lena Forster laughs when asked about the challenge awaiting her at the Milan-Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games.
"I feel the burden of my age before every start," the 30-year-old German Paralympic skier said ahead of the Games, which run from March 6 to 15.
"You stand there and realize a run at the speed of 100 kilometers per hour is ahead of you," the four-time Paralympic gold medalist said.
"The challenge to overcome your reflections has grown over the years," she added, laughing as she offered a simple solution: "You've got to tell yourself, just go and do it."
Despite her relaxed demeanor, Forster faces a demanding schedule in Italy, where she is set to compete in five events.
After winning two gold medals and two silvers at the 2022 Beijing Paralympics, expectations have risen. German coach Justus Wolf said that "five medals are within range for Anna-Lena."
Forster described the organization and atmosphere of the Beijing Games as "unique," but said the 2026 edition carries special significance.
"It will be something special due to the location," she said, with the Paralympic Winter Games returning to Europe after 20 years.
"I am looking forward to attending the Games with family and friends around."
Germany is sending 40 athletes and eight guides, its second-largest Paralympic winter team since the 1994 Games.
"It's on my mind all the time," Forster said. "You compete and a large group waits for you at the finish line. I have never experienced that."
Forster took two silver medals in 2014, two golds in 2018, and two golds and two silvers at what she called her highlight Games in Beijing.
Her fourth Paralympics could be her last. She acknowledged feeling pressure as younger athletes emerge.
"A new generation is at the doorstep and doing well," she said.
Already involved in mentoring younger skiers, Forster said a future coaching role could be possible.
"To pass on my experience is something striking my mind," she said.
Forster began skiing at the age of nine after her parents, who enjoyed winter sports, took her to introductory workshops.
"I attended several of these training sessions and gradually got into it. I didn't fall in love at first sight, but things change," she said.
Initially, she did not see sport as a path to success but valued the confidence and positivity it brought.
From her perspective, sport acts as a bridge that helps people grow and build self-belief.
Still, the competitor in her remains.
"I am determined to succeed at the 2026 Games," she said. "But it's a challenge, a bigger one at my age."
Her approach remains simple.
"Just do it," she said, before plunging down the hill. ■
