Trees are part of the King family’s professional life. They run a company that cares for and preserves natural forest stands. But the American didn't pick up her first competition axe until she studied at Pennsylvania State University – and then immediately knew she had found her passion. With ambition and the conviction that anything is possible, she fought her way to the top. Today, Martha is a triple national champion and won the International Women’s Cup in Vienna in 2022.
What is your job?
I’m an arborist – or in other words: I am dedicated to the care and maintenance of trees. And in the best company. Together with my father, mother and brother, I run our family business Chadds Ford Tree Service in Pennsylvania, living my passion for nature every day.
What discipline is your personal strength and why?
Hard to say - it’s neck and neck between the Underhand Chop and the Single Buck. What really matters to me is the feeling of excellence when everything comes together: power, technology, flow. In these moments, I feel pure joy – and it's precisely this energy that catapults me to a whole new level of performance.
What motivated you to take part in STIHL TIMBERSPORTS®?
The challenge of competing at the highest level immediately inspired me. I wanted to know where my limits are – and push them.
Is there a special moment in your STIHL TIMBERSPORTS® career that you will never forget?
Winning the first International Women’s Cup 2022 in Vienna was something very special. For a long time, it looked as if I wouldn't be able to compete at all – until I suddenly got the green light a week before the competition. Absolutely crazy! I was already in Europe and had to organise everything needed in a short time. The greatest thing was the incredible support from my family and friends. They made sure I had the best equipment, arrived in Vienna on time and could compete with full backing – and bring home gold for the USA.
Do you have a goal for your STIHL TIMBERSPORTS® career?
My goals evolve from season to season and I haven't finalised them for this year yet. However, some things always remain the same: I want to enter with passion, courage and gratitude. My ambition is to stand on stage with class and a real sporting spirit. And I want to give something back – not only to the sport, but also to the world by creating opportunities for others.
