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Born: 4 November 1971 in Walenstadt, SwitzerlandFACT FILECompeted in six editions of the Olympic Winter Games from 1992 to 2010Flagbearer for Liechtenstein at the Olympic Winter Games Salt Lake City 20021999Silver medallist at the FIS Alpine World Ski ChampionshipsPodium finishes and four victories in World Cup events, the last in 2008 at the age of 3618THE GAMES THAT HAD THE BIGGEST IMPACT ON METhe last Olympic Winter Games that I took part in were in Vancouver in 2010. I was 38 years old. As an athlete, youÕre in a tunnel and the only thing that matters to you is your competition and performance. But when I was finished with my events in Vancouver, I stayed for three more days and went to see as many competitions from other sportsas I could.It sunk in just how big the Olympic Games are; how great the experience is to be an athlete, and to watch others fulfil their dreams by winning medals and feeling these emotions. It changed my view of the Olympic Games forever.After my career, I was one of the Athlete Role Models for the Winter Youth Olympic Games in Innsbruck. It brought me to the table with Jacques Rogge, Sergey Bubka and Frank Fredericks Ð all legends. It made me very humble.THE OLYMPIC VALUESExcellence brings out the best of the best. Every athlete tries to achieve their peak performance at the Olympic Games because everyone wants to win an Olympic medal. Friendship is a big part of the Games too. You get to meet so many people Ð not just athletes, but also the volunteers. IÕve met so many volunteers who IÕve talked to and that is something really special about the Games. Friendships grow. Respect is also important. Respect for each other Ð not just athletes in your sport, but also for athletes in other sports. The credibility of the Olympic Games is the most important thing for the IOC, and Olympic Agenda 2020 is a big step towards that.■Athlete Role Model at the inaugural Winter Youth Olympic Games at Innsbruck in 2012OLYMPIC REVIEW 75MY GAMES