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I started shooting video of Lucas 10 years ago. Besides his skiing, he knew little about filming, building jumps, touring, snowmobiling, sponsorships, etc. At this young
age, he was happy, motivated, respectful, and fun to work with. Fast forward to the present and Lucas’ attitude hasn’t changed one bit. He has honed his skills in every
aspect from filming to snowmobiling to jump building to big mountain skiing and beyond. When we go out to shoot, I’m comfortable letting him lead the way. He knows
what he wants to ride, is open to suggestions, and I don’t have to hold his hand building a jump or setting a boot pack. His hard work ethic coupled with his incredible
talent have paved the way to be able to travel the world skiing with videographers, photographers, and friends.
Some may think being a professional skier is all puppies and kitties, believe me, it’s not. A pro skier has to be both humble and extremely competitive, able to withstand
physical pain day after day, risk their life year after year, live on virtually dog food until, hopefully, the paychecks come in, with no guarantees for success on any given
day. You may sacrifice friendships, girlfriends, parents, and school. You open yourself up to a world of social media judgement, where not everyone is kind regarding
their opinion about you. You take your paychecks and immediately reinvest them into your snowmobile, truck, travel, and a whole host of other gear required to maintain
the profession. If you make it really big, well, there is a lot more money to play around with. Lucas is growing his business and not eating dog food, but he still has a lot of
work to do to make the big time. The industry indirectly demands that you produce a boat load of content if you want to get paid. Lucas produces, boy does he produce.
The industry has taken note and as I said, his business is growing.
Another myth is longevity. People say, “Pro skiing is cool, but how long can you be a professional skier and how much can you really make?” With Lucas, I give him
around 15-20 years as a pro skier. That’s no flash in the pan, that’s a full blown career. I’ve worked with many pro skiers and snowboarders who have made millions of
dollars; it aint just Shaun White earning the checks. At the end of the day, money doesn’t buy happiness and traveling the world to ski for 15-20 years is like winning the
lottery.
I’ve worked with some real shit heads in the industry and Lucas is polar opposite from that. He is one my favorite people to work with because he is prepared, kind, tells
me to STFU when necessary, gives 110% every day, tough AF, and ultimately, produces in front of the camera. Lucas has also become a close friend, kind of like the
younger brother I’ve never had. He is a true professional skier, not to mention he probably skates and snowboards better than you.
Proud of you Lucas.
Pete Alport