One of the most successful alpine skiers in American history, New Hampshire's Bode Miller has captured the attention of the world with his incredible athletic balance and ability to produce jaw-dropping performances on skis. Raised in an electricity free home, the two-time World Cup overall champion, four-time World Champion and five-time Olympic medalist has risen to become one of the most prolific international athletes.

Miller opted to sit out the 2013 Audi FIS Alpine World Cup season, including the World Ski Championships, a strategic decision to ensure a healthy run for an historic fifth Olympic Winter Games. After successful surgery last spring for a microfracture in his left knee, which he originally injured in 2001, Miller expects his knee to be stronger than it has been in the last 10 years when he returns to competition.

Not one to sit idle, Miller stayed active cross training, much of the time with his wife, professional beach volleyball player Morgan Miller, who he married in October 2012.

BODE SAYS
It was tough for me to miss a season of ski racing, but this decision was easy for me when I look at my opportunity next year. My knee should be stronger than any time since before I injured it in 2001. Getting married still made it a big year, so I’ve been able to enjoy that and extra time with my wife and daughter.

I have said many times that motivation is a key trait for me when it comes to my racing – I am super motivated to do great things next year and I know 2014 will be my last Olympics. I have a chance to finish my competitive career on a really high note and I'm going to do everything I can to make that happen.

FIRST TRACKS
Growing up near Cannon Mountain, he was skiing by three – Mom brought him to the mountain and he'd ski with staff – but Miller also enjoyed snowboarding. At 13, he entered Maine's Carrabassett Valley Academy to be a ski racer. He made a big impression at the ’96 U.S. Championships at Sugarloaf, up the road from CVA, when he took third in the slalom title race at only 18 years old. Miller debuted on the World Cup with the ’98 Olympic season, finishing 11th in his first race.

OFF THE SNOW
A father and newly married man, Miller spends much of his time off snow with his family in California. His new hobby is horse racing, of which Miller has a stake in a few very competitive horses with top trainer Bob Baffert. Also active in philanthropy, Miller is passionate about the Turtle Ridge Foundation, an organization he started in 2005 focusing on environmental protection issues and providing opportunities for young people to participate in recreational activities. He hosts two major fundraising events annually: BodeFest, a skiing event in the spring, and BodeBash, a golf and tennis classic later in the summer.