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Who is Michal Bekeš and why he belongs among the world elite
Michal Bekeš is the first and so far the only Slovak speed skier. He operates at the absolute limit of physical possibilities, reaching speeds during his runs that are unimaginable for ordinary skiers.
In mid March 2026, Michal is heading to the Speed Ski World Championships in Vars, France. This is where the steepest downhill slope in the world is located: a legend that has earned the nickname the queen of downhill slopes. Its extreme gradient reaches up to 98%, and starting from its summit is a privilege reserved for only about 40 of the world’s best riders. It is not just about speed, but also about courage, precise preparation and absolute control in conditions where the boundaries of what is possible are constantly being pushed.
Michal’s personal record of 248.55 km/h places him 7th in the world, but his ambitions reach even higher.
This time, we met him at Štrbské Pleso, where one of his training sessions was taking place.
Solisková slope: The ideal place for speed and mental preparation
A morning at Štrbské Pleso means one thing – perfectly prepared manchester snow, ideal for high speeds. Michal immediately explains why the Solisková slope is a better choice for him than Furkota.
Solisko offers an ideal run-out for speed training and also includes uneven terrain, which is crucial for Michal. These irregularities force him to maintain maximum concentration and serve as an excellent tool for mental preparation ahead of competitions.
Jumps, uneven terrain and speeds over 250 km/h
Speed skiing training is not just about smooth runs. Jumps are an inseparable part of it. Michal can easily handle jumps of up to 40 metres, which requires absolute control over both body and skis. At these speeds, it is no longer just about technique, but also about mental resilience and the ability to trust one’s own skills.
Štrbské Pleso as a second training base
For Michal, Štrbské Pleso is his second most important training centre. If conditions in Tatranská Lomnica are not ideal, he automatically heads here. The Tatras offer him varied terrain, high-quality infrastructure and conditions comparable to those abroad, which is essential when preparing for world records.
The new Porsche cable car through the eyes of a professional skier
When asked about the new Porsche cable car, Michal responded with a smile:
I am pleasantly surprised. I have never travelled in such luxury before. It is comfortable, heated and set in a beautiful environment.”
Even for a professional who is used to top-level equipment, it is an exceptional experience.
How Gopass helps Michal with his training
For Michal, having everything in one place is essential. Gopass allows him to check webcams and weather conditions in the morning and decide accordingly where he will train – whether in Tatranská Lomnica, Štrbské Pleso, Jasná, or even in Austria and Poland.
Fresh Track: The safest time for extreme speed
According to Michal, the ideal time for training is Fresh Track. At seven o’clock in the morning, the slope is almost empty, conditions are stable and the risk of an accident is significantly reduced. At speeds exceeding 200 km/h, safety is an absolute priority.
A record of 248.55 km/h and the goal he wants to surpass
Michal’s personal record of 248.55 km/h proves that Slovak speed skiing is at a world-class level. However, his goal is clear – to surpass his own maximum and move even higher in the world rankings.
We are glad that we can watch such training sessions right in the heart of the Tatras.
This translation was prepared for you by the Gopass AI Translator.
