While it’s impossible not to reference Taylor Fletcher as the little brother of U.S. teammate Bryan Fletcher, the younger Fletcher is quickly making a name for himself in nordic combined. A strong cross country skier, Fletcher has the ability to separate himself from the field early and rack up results.

If 2013 is any indication of Fletcher’s skill and potential, the nordic combined world needs to be on notice. The Steamboat Springs native earned his first World Cup podium and then went on to earn his first team World Ski Championships medal with a bronze at Val di Fiemme, Italy. In addition, Fletcher started the 2012-13 World Cup circuit by posting the fastest time in the season’s opening race, showing his prowess in cross country.

Fletcher’s 16th-place finish in the overall World Cup standings ranks him highest among U.S. men in 2013, a number he hopes will rise steadily as the competitive seasons roll on.

Fletcher’s 2013 success followed a great 2012 season, which saw him grab six Continental Cup podiums in seven tries and score points in most of the year’s World Cups. He also finished 12th at Junior Worlds in 2009 and was part of the Olympic squad in 2010, competing in both nordic combined and ski jumping.

TAYLOR SAYS
Our team put in the hard work all summer long, and to see it start to pay off was a great success as well as a great feeling. The season got off to an alright start in Lillehammer. I had a great first race of the year, posting the fastest time. This was a goal for the year, and to accomplish it in the first competition was very satisfying. I have always known my cross country skiing is strong, but to have it be the strongest on the World Cup circuit all-year long is a major confidence booster.

This year I accomplished almost all of my goals I set at the beginning of the season. By earning my first team, individual and World Championship podiums, I took a giant step, one that motivates me going into next season. I can’t wait to get into training so I can focus on my childhood dream of earning an Olympic medal. I know I still have a lot of work to do, but I look forward to that work and a chance to stand on top of the world.

FIRST TRACKS
Born in Steamboat Springs, CO, Fletcher could practically ski before he could walk. His father, a ski patroller, and mother, a real estate agent, played a huge role in getting Fletcher on skis and involved in sports at an early age. However, it was following the footsteps of his older brother Bryan that led him to competition. At the age of four, Fletcher was enrolled at the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club and it has been full steam ahead ever since.

OFF THE SNOW
While Taylor is off the snow, he can be found on his road bike or swinging his golf clubs. He is taking more classes at Westminster College and hopes to earn his degree in the next few years. When Taylor is not training, having fun or in school, he is at work serving pizza at Red Banjo or at the Park Silly Market on Main Street in Park City.