María José Rienda, a prominent figure in skiing and an Olympian from Granada, has transitioned from the competition slopes to roles in sports management and planning. Despite the years and technological advancements, her passion for skiing and her desire to empower new generations remain strong.
During a visit to the IMUDS facilities at the University of Granada, Rienda reflected on how technological and biomechanical tools would have impacted her career. "It would have helped immensely," she stated, recalling the limitations of her era, when summer training required travel to glaciers or the use of less advanced equipment like early 'roller skis'.
The difference between past and present in training is significant. "Before, a coach would tell you your knee was turning inward, and you had to trust them," Rienda explains, contrasting it with the immediate correction possible today thanks to cameras and technology. "Now, you have tools that allow you to see it instantly and correct yourself much faster."
Looking ahead, Rienda is optimistic about her role in Sierra Nevada. "The reality is that we are already thinking about next season. We never stop," she assures, highlighting ongoing work in sustainability and infrastructure projects.
The transition from elite athlete to institutional management was challenging. "Very much so," she admits. "When you retire, you're leaving behind what you love most in the world. Suddenly, a huge void opens up, and you have to ask yourself what comes next. I had to reinvent myself and find a new path. Fortunately, I discovered that sports management fascinated me almost as much as competing."
Her motivation in management lies in "the possibility of giving back to sport a part of everything it had given me." Contributing to improving structures, supporting athletes, and creating opportunities are aspects that deeply fulfill her.
Rienda has also held significant regional and national responsibilities, periods she describes as "very intense" and for which she is proud of the "team eager to transform things and help Spanish sport."
The evolution of sports has been "enormous," especially with the advent of new technologies. "New technologies have revolutionized sports. Research, data analysis, physical preparation, recovery... Everything has evolved tremendously."
Regarding the success of skier Ana Alonso, who trained in Sierra Nevada, Rienda expressed emotion: "Seeing an athlete who trained at your resort and whom you've seen grow fulfill her Olympic dream is very special." She emphasized the difficulty of Olympic medals and Alonso's potential.
The Sierra Nevada 1996 World Championships, her first, are an imposing memory. "You were competing in front of your people, at the resort where you learned to ski," but also a crucial experience. "Many of the facilities we enjoy today stem from that transformation."
Looking towards 2035 or 2040, Rienda envisions Sierra Nevada "evolving, modernizing, and improving services," focusing on accessibility and visitor experience without compromising the natural environment. It is "always" special to contemplate the views from the summit.
Although her time for skiing is limited by her responsibilities, Rienda skis "as much as I can" to "disconnect" and "return with renewed energy." Her favorite spot is La Laguna, for its connection to the mountain.
Besides skiing, she enjoys mountain biking, volleyball, golf, and paddle tennis, though her free time is now largely dedicated to her daughter. "First, she should practice the sport she wants. And then, she needs resources, structures, trained coaches, and opportunities to grow."
Rienda feels proud to have contributed to the advancement of women's sports, acknowledging that "there is still room to continue building opportunities." If she were to start over, she would choose skiing "without a doubt."
The greatest lesson sport has taught her is that "hard work always pays off" and the importance of "continuing to build, improve, and look forward," lessons she applies to both sport and life.
