In a story that’s equal parts inspiring and full-circle emotional, Vail, Colorado native Sarah Schleper has etched her name deeper into Olympic lore by becoming part of the first mother-son pair ever to compete at the same Winter Games.
The 46-year-old alpine skiing veteran, who turns 47 later this month, took to the Olympia delle Tofane course in the women’s super-G event, finishing last but beaming with pride — and for good reason. Her 18-year-old son, Lasse Gaxiola, is making his Olympic debut for Mexico in the men’s giant slalom and slalom events, turning a long-held family dream into reality at the Milan Cortina 2026 Games.
Schleper, a seven-time Olympian (four for the United States from 1998-2010, and now three for Mexico after gaining citizenship through marriage), became the oldest female alpine skier to compete at the Olympics. But the real milestone? According to Olympic historians, she and Lasse are the groundbreaking first mother-son duo to share the same Winter Games — and the first such pair in Mexican Olympic history as well.
The journey feels poetic. In 2011, Schleper famously carried a 4-year-old Lasse in her arms during her final World Cup slalom race in Lienz, Austria, as she retired from the U.S. Ski Team in dramatic fashion. Now, more than 14 years later, mother and son are teammates on Team Mexico’s small but mighty alpine squad — two of the nation’s five athletes at these Games.
“My mom has taught me everything I know about skiing,” Lasse shared in recent interviews, crediting his mother’s guidance through junior races and FIS competitions that secured his qualification.
For Schleper, competing alongside her son wasn’t always the plan — it “just happened” through perseverance, qualification battles, and unwavering passion. She describes the experience as deeply emotional, a testament to family, resilience, and the enduring love of the sport that raised them both in ski-obsessed Vail.
While medals may not be the primary goal for this underdog duo (Mexico isn’t a traditional alpine powerhouse), the historic achievement has already captured hearts worldwide. Fans are calling it “the ultimate family goals” and “proof that dreams span generations.”
From carrying her toddler down the hill to racing side-by-side as Olympians — Sarah Schleper and Lasse Gaxiola are rewriting the record books and reminding everyone: family makes the greatest team of all.
Tag a mom or son who inspires you! Who’s your favorite Olympic family story?
