25
Steamboat Srings, CO
Landon Wendler's moguls career began like many young skiers in Steamboat Springs—with a terrifying splash at the water ramps at Bald Eagle Lake. The first time he attempted a backflip, he landed on his head. Undeterred, Wendler persevered through more hard landings on water and eventually snow, developing the aerial skills that would complement his natural talent for fast, technical turning. That determination paid off in 2018 when he captured the U.S. Junior National Championship in moguls, a breakthrough victory that secured his spot at the FIS Junior World Championships and signaled his arrival as a serious competitor.
Wendler's ascent continued through the North American development circuit, where he accumulated 10 NorAm Cup podiums including victories in moguls at Killington in 2020 and dual moguls at Val St. Come, Canada, in 2022. At the 2019 Junior World Championships in Chiesa in Valmalenco, Italy, Wendler placed fourth in dual moguls and 10th in singles, competing against the world's best junior athletes. His strong performances earned him his first spot on the U.S. Ski Team for the 2020-21 season.
Wendler earned his first World Cup podium in March 2024 with a third-place finish in dual moguls in Almaty, Kazakhstan. The 2023-24 season marked a career year with the podium finish plus four additional World Cup top-10 results, propelling him to promotion to the U.S. Freestyle Ski Team's A Team for the 2024-25 season.
Off the slopes, Wendler balances his athletic pursuits with creative interests and community involvement. He studied at the Los Angeles Film School while competing, managing a demanding schedule that often included early morning water ramp sessions, gym workouts, classes and evening shifts working at a pizza restaurant in Park City. When he has rare downtime in his hometown, Wendler enjoys playing hockey and DJing. He also gives back to his community through volunteer work with the Steamboat Springs Optimist Club during the fall and winter months, maintaining his connection to the Yampa Valley community that supported his development as an athlete.
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