The world is watching the best athletes on earth take to the snow and ice. It looks easy on TV but local skier Brayden Blackmer says it is anything but simple. 

“The hardest part is getting up after you fall,” Blackmer said. “Sometimes your skis come off and slide down the hill. It’s hard to get your balance, and you start sliding down right away.” 

Even for those who practice often, the pros still find ways to impress. Blackmer admits he is amazed by the tricks and flips he sees during the games. “They go side to side and look so graceful,” he said. “I don’t think I could ever do that.” 

While Blackmer focuses on the difficulty of the slopes, many fans are just happy to watch from the comfort of their couches. For some, the Winter Olympics are all about the tradition and the outfits. 

“I honestly watch for the opening ceremonies and the cool gear,” said local fan Jordan Miller. “I’d probably be the least bad at curling because it looks the most like a normal hobby, even though I know it’s actually really hard.” 

Miller says that while the outfits are great, some sports are just too scary to imagine doing. “Skeleton looks the most terrifying to me. Going headfirst down a slide of ice at 80 miles per hour is not something I’d ever want to try” Miller added. 

Other fans prefer sports that require a bit more artistry. Watching the judged events is a highlight for many viewers who appreciate the style over just the speed. 

“I prefer watching figure skating over the races,” said Casey Reed, another Olympics fan. “It’s like watching a dance on ice. I’m rooting for every athlete who can stay on their feet.” 

Whether it is the fear of falling down a mountain or the excitement of a perfect routine, the Winter Olympics continue to pull people in. As Blackmer puts it, even the pros make it look like something “I could never do,” but that won’t stop the rest of us from cheering them on.