Teenage skier Laborde ready to shoulder Kenya's hopes at Milano Cortina Winter Olympics

At just 18 years old, Issa Gachingiri Laborde Dit Pere has become Kenya's sole representative at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, stepping onto the global stage as the nation's lone alpine skier after compatriot Sabrina Simader withdrew due to financial constraints.

Born on March 12, 2007, in Echirolles, France, to a Kenyan mother, Josephine Nyokabi, and French father, Larbode, Laborde grew up in the heart of the French Alps, immersed in ski culture from an early age.

Despite his French upbringing, he made the proud choice to represent Kenya, embracing his heritage and carrying the weight of national expectations.

Laborde first caught attention at the Gangwon 2024 Winter Youth Olympic Games, where he became the first Kenyan male alpine skier to compete internationally, taking part in all four alpine events and gaining invaluable experience.

That breakthrough propelled him to the senior level, qualifying him for Milano Cortina and marking a significant step in Kenya's growing winter sports journey.

At the opening ceremony in Livigno, Laborde proudly served as Kenya's flag bearer, leading the small delegation into the stadium.

Supported by the International Olympic Committee's Olympic Solidarity fund—like many athletes from less-resourced nations—Laborde has focused on preparation amid challenges.

He trained intensively in Bormio ahead of his debut event, the men's giant slalom, scheduled for Saturday, February 14.

"For this Olympics, the goal of this season was to be here," Laborde said in recent interviews, keeping expectations grounded while highlighting the bigger picture.

“He hopes his participation inspires more African nations and young talents to pursue winter sports, noting the rarity of Black and African athletes on the slopes.

Kenya's winter sports story has seen pioneers like Simader (who made history at PyeongChang 2018 as the country's first alpine skier) pave the way, but funding remains a hurdle. Simader, who had planned a comeback, will now attend the races as a spectator, cheering on her young compatriot.

Laborde's presence at Milano Cortina signifies Kenya's expanding Olympic footprint beyond traditional strengths in athletics and team sports.

As the only Kenyan competitor, he races not just for personal achievement but to showcase possibility—proving that excellence knows no boundaries, even on snow.