Martin Benes grew up spending time outdoors and skiing in Northern California. He competed for Bates College at the NCAA level for four years during college. Following graduation, he turned his attention towards coaching. He has been coaching endurance athletes for over 15 years and spent three years as the National Cross-Country Ski Coach for the US Paralympic Nordic Ski Team. He is passionate about helping skiers of all ages and abilities have access to snow and improving their skills. He resides in Truckee, California, where he enjoys cross-country skiing in the winter, mountain biking, and running in the summer.