The Portillo Anthology
It’s been 55 years since Portillo played host to the 1966 FIS World Championships in the middle of Summer. For those alpinists in the Northern Hemisphere, Portillo represents the pinnacle of exotic escapism: the ability to leave behind long summer days to chase the endless winter.
Over the next few episodes of the Designed by Tradition podcast, Alps & Meters will feature guests with intimate connections to this magical location in the Andes on the shores of the Laguna del Inca that inspires countless daydreamers and adventurers.
Part one: Chris Davenport
Chris in Portillo
A two-time extreme skiing world champion and one of the most accomplished big mountain skiers of all time, Chris Davenport needs little introduction. He joins us to reflect on the risks and rewards of his career, his love of the history of the sport, learning from legends like Doug Coombs, and offers some intel on his favorite spots in Portillo (where he runs a skiing camp).
Part TWO: Henry Purcell
King Henry
The “King” of Portillo, Henry has seen it all in the 70+ years of the resort, from the aforementioned FIS World Championships to celebrity visits and beyond. He is the driving force behind the welcoming atmosphere the resort is known for, and joins us to reflect on his experiences running the storied hotel.
Part Three: Travis Ganong
Travis racing at Kitzbühel
One of the top American downhillers of the past decade, Travis has spent many preseasons in Portillo to train, using the trip as a was to focus and prepare for the season ahead. With the 2022 preseason around the corner, Travis reflects on his experiences in Portillo, and his mindset heading into an Olympic year.