Ruben Kretzschmar

Cross-country skier from Germany's Ore Mountains, student-athlete at the University of Vermont since fall 2025. My goal is the World Cup – and on the way there I want to show what it really looks like: the good days, the bad days and everything in between.

I grew up in Bärenstein, outdoors every day thanks to my family. In primary school I entered every sports competition I could; later came mountain biking, gymnastics, table tennis, alpine skiing – and the camera. I found cross-country skiing almost by accident: a school competition, a trial session, and I was hooked.

Setbacks are part of it

Two serious injuries – a double thigh fracture in 2018 and a torn ACL in 2021 – taught me early that progress is rarely a straight line. Both times I came back, never alone, but with the support of family, teachers, coaches and physios. German public broadcaster MDR followed me for two years for the documentary "Sportskanonen".

Behind the camera

At 13 I started teaching myself film and photography. Since then I've produced videos and photos, including for events like the 2020 Junior World Championships in Oberwiesenthal. That's why you'll find plenty of visuals here, not just text.

What you'll find here

• Honest insights into training, racing and recovery
• Life as a student-athlete between lectures and the trails
• Later on: training know-how and conversations with other athletes

Work together

Sponsorship, a collaboration or a joint project? I'd love to hear from people and brands who share this passion.