AIS grant fuels skier’s snow sport career

After competing as an alpine skier and sighted guide at the Paralympics, Lara Falk is carving a new path as Australia’s first female Technical Delegate for Ski and Snowboard Cross, with support from an Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) Accelerate Immersion Experience Grant.  

Falk’s sporting career began in alpine racing before becoming a sighted guide for vision-impaired skier Patrick Jensen. Together, they achieved international success and competed at the PyeongChang 2018 Winter Paralympics, where they placed 11th in Giant Slalom. 

After retiring from competition, Falk’s passion for events saw her become a Technical Delegate (TD)– an official responsible for ensuring Ski and Snowboard Cross events meet international standards. 

As a 2023 AIS Accelerate participant, she used an Accelerate Immersion Experience Grant to gain crucial experience at international events across Europe and Asia. 

“This grant allowed me to travel and assist with expenses such as accommodation, translators and car hire whilst overseas,” Falk said.  

“I was fortunate to see how courses were built on different terrains and implement those learnings at Perisher this winter.” 

The AIS Accelerate program supports retired female athletes to transition their skills into professional careers in sport. Immersion Experience Grants extend that opportunity by funding meaningful experiences to help alumnae grow in their chosen fields. 

With her qualification, Falk hopes to strengthen snow sport events in Australia, mentor emerging TDs, and one day work at major international competitions. 

And while she’s still coming to terms with the thought of being the first female TD for Ski and Snowboard Cross in Australia, she hopes the achievement will inspire others to chase their own goals, especially her fellow Accelerate alumnae.  

“If you have a goal or a dream, it’s just an application, and a step closer to gaining a new experience or knowledge while being supported.” 

Applications for the next round of AIS Accelerate Immersion Experience Grants are now open to AIS Accelerate alumnae until 29 May 2026, or until funding is exhausted. 

Find out more about the AIS Athlete Accelerate Immersion Experience Grant.