Masako Ishida, one of the most famous Japanese cross-country skiers, talks to ProXCskiing about her story, her roots, and her thoughts about Ski Classics.

To start, we can look back at Ishida’s career with some impressive numbers:

• 26 Ski Classics Starts
• 12 Ski Classics Podiums
• 2 Ski Classics Victories
• 230 Individual FIS World Cup Starts (first one in 2001)
• 32 FIS World Cup Ski Championships Starts in 10 editions
• 2 World Cup Podiums
• 16 Olympic Games Starts in 5 editions

Let’s have a look back on Masako Ishida’s history: where did you come from and when did you start skiing?  

“I am from Bihoro Hokkaido, Japan. I grew up there untill I was 15 years old. Then I moved to Asahikawa for high school and lived in Tokyo for university. I started skiing when I was 6 years old and we used to have to go skiing after school at our elementary school.”

Do you live in Japan all the year round?

“Yes, I live in Japan all year round but I am in Europe a lot during the winter. In proportion I would say that I spend 60% of the year in Japan and 40% in Europe.”

Is your coach from Japan too?

“I don’t have a trainer right now. But my university coach can give me advice sometimes.”

You’re on the World Cup and Ski Classics Tour for some years. Recently, are you more focused on double poling, or do you still prefer diagonal technique?

“I train more than I used in double pole, and I think it’s very important to be strong in double poling, even if you are racing on the FIS World Cup. I think we should train even more in double pole.”

Masako Ishida had some solid results both Ski Classics and World Cup: won La Diagonela 2015 and Reistadløpet 2018, and also have 12 Ski Classics podium so far since 2015.

What’s your best memories in Ski Classics?

“My best memories is on Reistadløpet, when I could win. And I also like this race so much!” 

What are you plans for the coming season?

“First of all, I am on Team Japan, so I should mostly follow my team schedule. But unfortunately  we don’t have plenty budget. I think I will be able to find some gaps in my calendar during the season, and if it is the case and it fits with Ski Classics I would love to join some races.”

Would you like to fully focus on Ski Classics?

“I have a sponsor who is a Japanese train company and who wants me to stay with Team Japan. I must follow their opinion.”

According to you, what’s the best part of Ski Classics?

“I like the fact that in Ski Classic races we have the possibility to race with recreational skiers. The atmosphere is also great, I love it!”  

What’s your secret to staying at the top?

“I just try to stay in health, sleep well and eat good foods. In addition, I don’t try any new training that is too hard. Of course, I train, but I don’t get too tired for too long. But maybe what I say is normal for all athletes?”