David Chappellet (Robert Redford), a rebellious and hardheaded skier, is trying out for the US Ski Team. His selfish behavior makes it difficult for his coach, Eugene Claire (Gene Hackman), to select him for the squad. Because of his tremendous talent the coach relents and trains him with the rest of the team. His return home to Idaho Springs, CO to tell his emotionless father (Stroud) of his plan is met with little enthusiasm. Chappellet's goals are selfishly pursued at the expense of the rest of the team, but seem to be understood by his teammate Mayo (Coleman) as they train for the upcoming Winter Olympic competition.