What does it take for a tropical island to compete in alpine skiing?

In this episode of Islands Uncovered, we dive into the remarkable, and slightly controversial story of Benjamin Alexander, Jamaica’s first-ever Olympic alpine skier.

Long before he stood at the start gate at the 2022 Winter Olympics, Benjamin was an international DJ performing around the world. He didn’t grow up on snow. He didn’t train as a child. In fact, he didn’t even learn to ski until his 30s.

So how did he qualify for the Olympics in one of the most elite and expensive winter sports in the world? Listen to this week's episode of Islands Uncovered: Beyond the Resort to find out!

If you love stories about Jamaica, Olympic history, underdog athletes, Winter Olympic controversy, alpine skiing, and bold Caribbean trailblazers — this episode is for you.

New episodes of Islands Uncovered; Beyond the Resort drop every Monday, where we tell the stories of the history, the people, and the moments that shape the islands.

Ready to uncover more? Let’s go.

Interested in booking your own Caribbean vacation? Reach out!

Dare to Dream Travel

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References Used and to Learn More: 

CNN Sport – Profile on Benjamin Alexander’s journey from DJ to Olympic skier

TNT Sports – Interviews and post-race coverage from Beijing 2022

Sky News – Reporting on his Olympic qualification and background

ITV News – Coverage of his historic qualification

Jamaica Observer – Race recap and official giant slalom results

Resident Advisor – Interview discussing his DJ career and Olympic transition

International Ski Federation (FIS) – Official Olympic qualification criteria (2022 cycle)

International Olympic Committee – Beijing 2022 official results and athlete profile