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Remembering Our Dear Friend Michel Rudigoz

Dear SVSEF Family and Friends,

This is hard to write.

Michel Rudigoz was… well... always there.

When I was a buck-toothed, grubby little ski team kid being welcomed into the world of SVSEF at eight years old by the beautiful and mystical Doran Key, Rudi was there. When I worked my way up through the SVSEF program, then led by the prescient super coach and forever-enthusiastic Lane Monroe, Rudi was there. When I graduated from SVSEF and left to see the world, he was there—beating the drums for SVSEF, for our community, and for every single kid who ever clicked into a pair of skis and gave it a go.

And then I came back.

Eight years later, not intending to stay that long. Just a moment to catch my breath before heading back out on the trail.

Rudi was here waiting.

Fast forward twenty years, and at every step, every milestone, every Wild Game Dinner, every alpine ski race we ever hosted, he was here. Without fail.

He never was not here.

Ever.

Michel was not just present. He was a presence. His bulldog frame, wild eyes, and perfect hair drove us all into a frenzy. Sometimes he was so clear in his eloquence—his long-winded and absolutely passionate streams of thought around skiing, particularly Giant Slalom. "The mother of all events!" they were... well, captivating. The words, and the way he fully embodied them, brought you into his world, and it was utterly irresistible.

And then he would sometimes (well, actually quite often) totally lose you.

Of course, the more excited he became, the harder he was to understand. The thickness of his French accent congealed like a French soup, and the words stopped taking the appropriate shapes. Now it was just a feeling doing the work. You were nodding your head, progressively turning off your rational mind and entering a more mythical space. The more you nodded, the deeper into his world you fell. A world of imagination, dreams, human potential, and beauty.

He was a magician in this world, and if you were lucky enough to know him, you were brought into his realm. It wasn't the words. Not the crazy animations. Not the intensity. It was that feeling he conjured that brought you along with him.

I think it was this space beyond the words that we all fell in love with.

It was a feeling inside of us—sometimes an uncomfortable one—that he would ask us to face. He was not afraid of humanity, as so many of us are. Rather, he was a champion of our humanity, and all it entailed.

Sometimes messy. Sometimes scary. Sometimes elegant. Sometimes in a language you literally and figuratively could not understand.

All this, and always unpredictable.

So many of his former athletes, myself included, still love throwing out—with total fondness and an accompanying smirk—"You ski like shit!" Everyone knows exactly what this means.

If you know, you know.

It was code for the old days at SVSEF, when we were a newly formed star in the solar system. There is something so special about that. How our origin story at SVSEF is woven together with Michel Rudigoz. The two are intimate and inseparable.

It was hope and legacy and respect and grit and love all captured in a small French bottle...

As my professional journey with SVSEF carried on, Michel made sure that I had every bit of opinion I could ever want, need, or hope for.

I mean, holy smokes.

But by the Gods, am I grateful for that magic-maker of a man. I am grateful for the time and care he took to pour his passion from his cup into mine.

I am grateful that his ski boots have always been located next to mine on the boot dryer at the training center. They served as a daily reminder to never forget what this is all about, and that the view we enjoy at SVSEF was hard-fought by those whose shoulders we stand upon.

Toward the end, Michel became a child of our village.

Like so many others, I was entrusted with the unspoken task of making sure Michel was in good company, and that he didn't wander out into the middle of a live race track. That he was as safe as we could make him.

It was a duty born of love and respect, and one we took on without hesitation. It was the least we could possibly do for someone so dear.
For someone whom we all—whether you knew him or not—owe a great debt of gratitude.

His boots will stay right where they are.

And he will never be forgotten in the stories we tell.

He will be missed dearly.

Godspeed Coach.

by Heather Foster

SVSEF Cross Country Celebrates Athletes, Team Culture at End-of-Season Awards Banquet

Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation (SVSEF) Cross Country athletes, coaches, families, and supporters gathered at the Sage School Barn in Hailey to celebrate the conclusion of another successful season at the SVSEF Cross Country End-of-Year Awards Banquet for the Prep and Comp Teams.

The evening honored athlete achievements, senior reflections, and the strong sense of community that defines the SVSEF XC program.

“It was a great celebration of team, athlete recognitions, senior speeches, and an overall deep show of appreciation for all that our coaches, athletes, families and community do to support SVSEF Cross Country,” said Becky Flynn, SVSEF Cross Country Program Director.

Prep Team Head Coach and Assistant Program Director Kelley Yeates highlighted the impact of the team’s graduating seniors.

“We had some exceptional senior speeches this year,” said Yeates. “They were touching reflections on each athlete’s journey with the Cross Country team and powerful reminders of the friendships, growth, and lifelong impact this program creates.”

Prep Team Awards

Prep Team Outstanding Skier honors went to Augie Allaire and Nina O’Sullivan, while Ben Wellner and Eisley Burdette received the Coaches Award. Ford Ramsay and Sadie Guss were named Most Improved Skiers, and Cody Lloyd received the Sean Flynn Memorial Scholarship Award.

The evening also included a presentation of the Bob Rosso Scholarship, established by the Boulder Mountain Tour in honor of longtime community leader and skiing advocate Bob Rosso. The scholarship recognizes athletes who embody enthusiasm for skiing, respect for others, love of the outdoors, and a desire to positively impact the community. This year’s Bob Rosso Scholarship recipients were Silas Seppa and Catherine Jameson. Additional nominees included Jed Schmidt, Henri Allaire, Penelope Zook, and Hope Lloyd.

Inspirational Skier awards went to Spencer Flynn and Payton Daley-Scheingraber.

Comp Team Awards

On the Comp Team side, Anna Gilman and Cyrus Pott received the prestigious Peggy and Sigi Engl Award, recognizing athletes who demonstrate excellence in skiing, sportsmanship, and academics throughout the season.

Bailey Kurtz earned the Torin Norton Tucker Scholarship Award, a $1,000 tuition scholarship presented annually to one SVSEF XC athlete who embodies the qualities Torin represented: hard work, sportsmanship, love of cross country skiing, strong teamwork, and a passion for outdoor adventure. The award recognizes an athlete who reflects the values and spirit of the SVSEF XC community.

Sydney Nelson and Thijs Lloyd were named Rookies of the Year. Outstanding Skier honors went to Nick Gardiner and Stella St. George, and Sidney Brown and Caleo Morrison were recognized as Most Improved Skiers.

The Inspirational Skier award, voted on by teammates, was presented to Anna Gilman and Tait Boschen, while Charlie St. George received the Coaches Award.

The annual banquet marked not only the culmination of the winter season, but also the enduring culture of teamwork, perseverance, and community that continues to define SVSEF Cross Country.

by Heather Foster

SVSEF Alpine U14, U16, and FIS Teams Celebrate 25–26 Season with End-of-Season Awards

Athletes’ Senior Speeches Deliver Collective Message of Gratitude, Pride, and Enduring Connection

Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation (SVSEF) Alpine athletes were recognized for excellence on and off the hill at the 2025–26 End-of-Season Alpine Banquet, celebrating standout performances, leadership, and growth across the FIS, U16, and U14 teams. Across all levels, athletes were honored not only for results, but for embodying the values of dedication, sportsmanship, and passion that define SVSEF’s programs. The event was held on Wednesday, April 29 at the Liberty Theater in Hailey.

Throughout the evening, those athletes graduating delivered their personal senior speeches, describing their time with SVSEF as transformative—shaping not only their athletic development but also their identities and values. A recurring theme is that the program is more than a team; it is a family. Athletes emphasized lifelong friendships, shared experiences, and a supportive environment created by coaches, teammates, and the broader community.

Seniors graduating in 2026 include: Alaska Sewell, Alyssa Huntsman, Amilia Selznick, Autumn Carpenter, Malaya Yarmark, Ruby Smith, Samantha Milne, Thomas Connell, and Ulrich Rossi. Alyssa Huntsman was recognized for her longevity with the team, having skied with SVSEF since she was a Devo athlete, a total of 12 years.

FIS Team Highlights

The program’s highest honor, the Peggy & Sigi Engl Award, was awarded to Tucker Reimund and Sammy Milne. The award recognizes excellence in skiing, sportsmanship, and academics.

Reimund was praised for his “consistent persistence in everything he puts his mind to,” along with his leadership and commitment both on the hill and in the classroom. Milne, described by coaches as “the embodiment of this award,” was recognized for her resilience through injury and her ability to elevate those around her.

The Leif Odmark Good Sportsmanship Award went to Henry Roberts and Elliot Leahy, honoring athletes who demonstrate a love of the sport and a commitment to team culture. Despite challenges, both athletes showed up daily with determination and positivity.

Additional FIS honors included:

Most Improved: Elodie Olsen, who significantly advanced her world ranking and emerged as one of the top U18 athletes in the country.
Passion Award: Ava Huey, recognized for her “unmatched focus and determination.”
Mountain Kidd Award: Ruby Smith, celebrated for her deep love of the mountains and well-rounded approach to sport and life.

U16 Team Highlights

At the U16 level, athletes were recognized for development, resilience, and leadership.

Most Improved honors went to Cameron Beck and Sophie Kanowsky. Beck’s rapid technical growth—particularly in slalom—set him apart, while Kanowsky’s commitment to learning and willingness to step outside her comfort zone defined her season.

The Passion Award recognized Declan O’Toole and Colette “Coco” Duke. O’Toole’s comeback from knee surgery stood out as a defining story of the season.

“Declan’s love for skiing is unwavering, and his passion for the sport inspires everyone around him,” said Coach Gladys Weidt.

Duke, described as “the heart of the team,” was honored for her leadership, positivity, and ability to bring teammates together.

The U16 Engl Award recipients, Jake Schlatter and Neena DeGennaro, were recognized for excellence across athletics, academics, and character. Both athletes demonstrated leadership, discipline, and a commitment to personal growth.

Leif Odmark Good Sportsmanship awards went to Paxton Harris and Elle Deckard, each recognized for their dedication, resilience, and positive impact on team culture.

U16 Assistant Coach and Assistant Alpine Director Gladys Weidt was awarded the Life Coach Award in Honor of Ruben Macaya for her extraordinary dedication, caring, and hard work as a coach. The award also represents this coach’s ability to carry one of Macaya’s motto’s through in her coaching with SVSEF athletes, “You get the best effort from others not by lighting a fire beneath them but by building a fire within.

Jasmine Smiley was presented with the Ashley Snyder Briggs Scholarship Award for her passion, dedication, sportsmanship, teamwork and grit both on the hill and in the classroom. SVSEF Alumna Snyder Briggs grew up skiing and racing with the Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation between 1974-1985, from her first turns on Baldy through high school. After graduating from Sun Valley Community School, she went on to ski race for Middlebury College’s Division 1 team. The Ashley Snyder Briggs Scholarship is awarded each year by a committee of SVSEF coaches and Snyder Briggs, and provides significant financial support towards tuition and expenses for one high-school-aged female alpine athlete each year.

U14 IMD Team Highlights

The U14 IMD team showcased strong development and enthusiasm, with multiple athletes recognized for growth and commitment.

The Coaches Award (Most Improved) went to Jack Lee Lanza and Bria Smiley.

“Jack Lee…always has a smile on his face…works hard and he made steady progress through the season,” said Coach Ben Roberts. Smiley capped her season with a podium performance and regional qualification after consistent effort throughout the year.

The Passion Award was presented to Brixen Ehleringer and Mia Huey, both recognized for taking ownership of their development and supporting teammates.

The Most Versatile Athlete Award honored Lillee Haynes and Alex Grant. Haynes was recognized for her resilience and determination, overcoming a visual impairment to ski with increasing confidence and aggression. Grant delivered consistent podium performances while pushing both himself and his teammates.

The Howard & Peggy Dean Scholarship Award, awarded to a first-year U14 athlete, went to Hope Finnegan Lloyd. This full-ride scholarship is awarded to a first year U14 for their second year season as a U14. Also a member of the SVSEF Cross Country team, Hope showed unbelievable commitment, love for the sport, and active communication in building her ski racing journey.

“Hope loves skiing and ski racing…she has grit, sticks with things and is awesome to have on the team,” said Roberts.

For more information about SVSEF perpetual awards, their history, and past recipients, please visit: https://svsef.org/awards/

by Heather Foster

Scout Bilbro’s Breakthrough Season Culminates in Podium Finish at Junior Nationals

SVSEF snowboarder rises from early-season uncertainty to finish third overall in the nation

The Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation (SVSEF) is proud to celebrate a standout season from 14-year-old Big Mountain Team snowboard athlete Scout Bilbro, whose journey from early-season hesitation to a national podium finish exemplifies resilience, grit, and growth.

Scout opened her season at an International Freeskiers & Snowboarders Association (IFSA) 3* event in Jackson Hole—her first competition of the year and one she nearly didn’t enter. A challenging snow year and the unique position of being the only snowboarder among more than 30 skiers on the SVSEF Big Mountain Team left her feeling understandably unmotivated. After thoughtful reflection and a reset in approach, Scout and her coaches committed to taking the season one step at a time, beginning in Jackson.

That decision proved pivotal—Scout rediscovered her competitive drive, delivered a strong performance, and claimed the event win—an early victory that sparked momentum for the remainder of her season.

Building on that success, Scout went on to qualify for Junior Nationals, where she competed against the top 15 riders in the country. At Kicking Horse in British Columbia, known for its demanding high-alpine terrain, she demonstrated exceptional composure and courage. She secured her place in the finals with a strong qualifying run, then elevated her performance with an aggressive and confident final run to earn a second-place finish.

Facing the deepest and most competitive field of her career, Scout rose to the challenge. Her consistent performances throughout the season ultimately earned her third overall in the nation on the season among 48 athletes.

“Scout’s season is a testament to perseverance and the power of renewed focus,” said Sarah Verst, SVSEF Big Mountain Team Head Coach. “SVSEF looks forward to supporting her continued progression and seeing where her trajectory leads next.”

by Heather Foster

SVSEF Alpine U14 IMD Athletes Compete at Whistler Cup

Huey posts top-five finishes and team event win; Pringle earns strong GS result at premier international competition

Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation IMD U14 athletes Mia Huey and Savannah Pringle represented Team USA at the Whistler Cup, held April 10–12 at Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort in British Columbia.

Organized and hosted by the Whistler Mountain Ski Club, the competition has become one of the most prominent youth ski races globally since its inception in 1992. The event welcomed more than 650 U14 and U16 athletes and coaches from over 20 nations. Athletes qualify to represent Team USA through results at Western Region Championships, where only the top six girls and top six boys advance based on a World Cup points system—making selection one of the highest achievements at the U14 level.

Competing against an elite international field Huey led the way for SVSEF with fifth-place finishes in both the slalom (SL) and giant slalom (GS). Pringle finished 11th in GS and gained valuable experience after a strong season leading into the event.

Beyond the individual results, the U14 Dual Relay team event on April 11 stood out as a unique opportunity connecting athletes across countries and cultures, building friendships that will extend well beyond the race course. Athletes were randomly selected to international teams, where Huey was part of the winning team in the Dual Relay team event (Team USA1). Team USA1 was coached by SVSEF’s Angie Simari Birkner.

“Whistler Cup was so fun,” said Huey. “I met kids from all over the world and made a bunch of new friends. The coaches were amazing and pushed us while still making it fun.”

“It was really fun—something I will always remember,” said Pringle. “The relay race was cool, and meeting all the different teams—they were all nice.”

“I’m super happy and proud of Mia and Savannah for qualifying for the Whistler Cup—it is the highest they could have achieved at the U14 level,” said Alpine U14 IMD Second Year Head Coach Angie Simari Birkner. “They had an outstanding performance. Their season has been amazing, and to top it off with this race was just perfect.”

For complete race results, please visit: www.live-timing.com

by Heather Foster

SVSEF Alpine FIS Athletes Close Season at Big Sky’s Elite Spring Series

Final races in Big Sky mark season’s end and senior sendoff for SVSEF Alpine FIS team

Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation (SVSEF) Alpine FIS athletes wrapped up their competitive season at the FIS Elite Spring Series in Big Sky, Montana April 6-9, bringing the winter campaign full circle at the same venue where it began.

Originally designated as a “FIS Elite Series” event, the competition ultimately opened to athletes from across the entire Western Region, creating a deep and competitive field that included racers from top clubs and collegiate programs nationwide. The series featured two giant slalom (GS) and two slalom (SL) races over four days.

The event also marked a meaningful milestone for several SVSEF seniors. Alaska Sewell, Autumn Carpenter, and Alyssa Huntsman officially closed out their ski racing careers at Big Sky, capping years of dedication to the sport. Meanwhile, fellow seniors Ulrich Rossi, Ruby Smith, Amilia Selznick, and Samantha Milne were also in attendance and are expected to likely continue racing, though like many graduating athletes, they are currently weighing their options and finalizing plans for next season. Seniors Thomas Connell and Malaya Yarmark were not in attendance at the race in Big Sky.

“The vibes were high, and the athletes had an awesome opportunity to enjoy some final ski racing turns for the season,” said SVSEF coach Charlotte Gourlay. “Despite some high winds, the surface and sunshine provided a great time for our athletes!”

With the season now complete, SVSEF will look ahead to celebrating its athletes at the End of Season Awards on April 29 at 5:30 p.m. at the Liberty Theater, where more reflections and recognitions will mark the close of the 2025–26 season.

SVSEF Athlete Results (Top 30)

Ladies GS – April 6

11th – Ruby Smith

13th – Samantha Milne

23rd – Ava Huey

Men’s GS – April 7

26th – Conway Selznick

Ladies GS – April 7

11th – Samantha Milne

19th – Ruby Smith

23rd – Ava Huey

Men’s SL – April 8

26th – Conway Selznick

29th – Ulrich Rossi

Ladies SL – April 8

10th – Ruby Smith

23rd – Ava Huey

27th – Lucy Olson

Men’s SL – April 9

22nd – Henry Roberts

23rd – Conway Selznick

Ladies SL – April 9

7th – Ruby Smith

16th – Ava Huey

27th – Lucy Olson

29th – Autumn Carpenter

Full event results can be found online at: https://www.fis-ski.com/DB/general/event-details.html?sectorcode=AL&eventid=58650&seasoncode=2026

PHOTO: Spring Series Crew—Alaska Sewell, Autumn Carpenter, Conway Selznick, Ulrich Rossi, Tucker Reimund, Alyssa Huntsman, Ava Huey, Amilia Selznick and Lucy Olson (missing Ruby Smith and Sammy Milne)

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by Heather Foster

IMD Spring Fling at Grand Targhee Combines Fun and Transition for U12/U14 Athletes

End of season marks opportunity for testing skills and looking to what’s next

SVSEF Alpine U12 North Series athletes traveled to Grand Targhee, Wyo. April 3-5 alongside first-year SVSEF Alpine U14 IMD athletes, to take part in the always highly anticipated IMD Spring Fling. Athletes from both teams raced to great success, with podiums in every discipline for both the girls and boys over the course of the three days. Alta Questad (U12) topped the results for the girls with a first-place and two second-place finishes. Alex Grant (U14) and Walker Gove (U12) each brought home two podium finishes for the boys.

IMD Spring Fling is a great end of the season fun race for U12 and U14 athletes from the Intermountain Division, with athletes joining from the Northern Division as well. The race weekend offers an opportunity for U12 athletes to race with U14s, and for first-year U14s to have a final race of the season while the second-year U14s race the Snow Cup Series with U16s at Snowbird.

The dual format Slalom race and Kombi make for a fun weekend of racing. The Kombi offers a mix of features from giant slalom (GS) gates, to stubbie and tall pole slalom (SL) as well as wildcard features like pole jumpers. At the end of the day, the fun, mixed format rewards the most versatile racers who can bring their ski racing skills to the various features.

“We had a great weekend of racing,” said Ben Roberts, SVSEF Alpine First-Year U14 Head Coach. “The Grand Targhee race crew dug deep and delivered three great days of racing—we even had a powder day! It was great seeing our SVSEF athletes finish the season strong competitively and having fun skiing with their friends.”

The conclusion of the 2025/26 season will see the U12 North Series athletes transition to become first-year U14s, the first-year U14s grow into second-year U14s, and the second-year U14s who choose to continue ski racing will move to the U16 Team.

SVSEF Athlete Results

Kombi Girls U12

2nd - Alta Questad

Kombi Boys U12

3rd - Walker Gove

Kombi Boys U14

1st - Alex Grant

3rd - Breclan McCarthy

Slalom Girls U12

1st - Alta Questad

Slalom Boys U12

2nd - Walker Gove

Slalom Boys U14

2nd - Breclan McCarthy

4th - Reid Wilke

GS Girls U12

2nd - Alta Questad

GS Boys U14

1st - Alex Grant

6th - Halsten Bruun

For complete race results, please visit: https://imdalpine.org/race-results/

by Heather Foster

SVSEF Wraps Season at U16 Nationals & Snow Cup

Smiley, DeGennaro, Bengtson, and Questad Represent Sun Valley at U16 Nationals
Team Carries Momentum into End-of-Season Snow Cup

Two final weekends gave SVSEF Alpine athletes on the U16 Team the opportunity for some great spring ski racing and heated competition at both Grand Targhee Resort in Wyoming and Snowbird in Utah.

First up, four athletes from the SVSEF Alpine U16 Team qualified for the U16 National Championships, which took place March 28-31 at Grand Targhee Resort following a venue change from Snow King due to ever-changing and challenging low-snow conditions across the West. Grand Targhee served as an excellent venue and host for the championship series, where SVSEF’s fearsome foursome had the opportunity to compete against the nation’s top U16s.

Through their strong performances at U16 Regionals, Jasmine Smiley, Neena DeGennaro, Colter Bengtson, and Henry Questad qualified and represented SVSEF in the national series which included Super G, Team Alpine Combined, Giant Slalom, and Slalom.

“Our SVSEF athletes skied their hearts out and were right in the mix amongst the Nation’s top U16s,” said Nate Schwing, SVSEF Alpine U16 Head Coach. “Along with the competition, U16 Nationals is a fun way to meet athletes from around the country, and it is a great experience for our athletes who qualified through their strong performances at U16 Regionals.”

With no rest for the weary, a team of 15 including U16 and second-year U14 athletes, competed at the Snow Cup, which took place April 4-7 at Snowbird. Renowned as being the second longest running ski race in the United States, athletes competed in two slalom and two giant slalom races over the four-day series. The weather and snow conditions were ideal for spring racing and to wrap the Intermountain Cup for the season.

Neena DeGennaro stood on the second step of the podium in all four races at the Snow Cup, while Colter Bengtson snagged one second-place spot in the Slalom on April 5. SVSEF athletes raced their way into the top ten in every race of the series, rounding out a solid season.

“The Snow Cup was an excellent final series, with four days of racing under sunny skies and spring conditions,” said Schwing. “It was a lot of fun to have so much of our team attending, to be together and race together one last time! The team skied well, and race series provided ideal conditions and a fun environment to celebrate the ski racing season.”

SVSEF Athlete Results at U16 Nationals

Super G Women

31st - Neena DeGennaro

42nd - Jasmine Smiley

Super G Men

20th - Colter Bengtson

45th - Henry Questad

Giant Slalom Women

11th - Neena DeGennaro

31st - Jasmine Smiley

Slalom Women

13th - Neena DeGennaro

26th - Jasmine Smiley

For complete U16 Nationals race results, please visit live-timing.com

SVSEF Athlete Results at the Snow Cup

Slalom Men - April 4

6th - Paxton Harris

8th - Corbin Flood

10th - Cameron Beck

11th - Henry Questad

14th - Brooks Gove

Slalom Women - April 4

2nd - Neena DeGennaro

13th - Alexandra Heidel

18th - Olivia Harrington

Slalom Men - April 5

2nd - Colter Bengtson

8th - Corbin Flood

10th - Wyatt Limburg

17th - Cameron Beck

Slalom Women - April 5

2nd - Neena DeGennaro

9th - Jasmine Smiley

Giant Slalom Men - April 6

6th - Corbin Flood

7th - Declan O’Toole

9th - Paxton Harris

11th - Colter Bengtson

14th - Jake Schlatter

15th - Wyatt Limburg

16th - Cameron Beck

Giant Slalom Women - April 6

2nd - Neena DeGennaro

8th - Jasmine Smiley

16th - Colette Duke

18th - Bianca Smith

Giant Slalom Men - April 7

7th - Colter Bengtson

8th - Declan O’Toole

10th - Corbin Flood

11th - Henry Questad

14th - Jake Schlatter

15th - Wyatt Limburg

16th - Cameron Beck

Giant Slalom Women - April 7

2nd - Neena DeGennaro

6th - Jasmine Smiley

9th - Bianca Smith

17th - Colette Duke

For complete Snow Cup results, please visit: https://imdalpine.org/race-results/

by Heather Foster

SVSEF XC Gold Team Closes Season at SuperTour Finals & U.S. National Championships

The Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation (SVSEF) Gold Team wrapped up an exceptional season at the SuperTour Finals and U.S. National Championships, held at the Craftsbury Outdoor Center in Vermont, March 27-29. Competing against the top cross country skiers in North America, SVSEF athletes delivered strong performances across three days of racing, highlighted by national championship events and a competitive field.

The race series opened Friday with the 1.5km Classic Sprint, followed by the 4x5km mixed gender relay on Saturday, and concluded Sunday with the demanding 40km Freestyle Mass Start.

In Friday’s Classic Sprint, Will Koch led the men with a 13th-place finish, followed closely by Peter Wolter in 14th. Mia Case placed 34th in the women’s field.

Saturday’s relay showcased teamwork and depth and some great fun, with the combined SVSEF/BSF team—featuring Mia Case, Will Koch, Elke Hammerstein (BSF Pro), and Elijah Weenig—finishing 2nd overall in the SuperTour unofficial team standings.

Sunday’s grueling 40km Freestyle Mass Start saw John Steel Hagenbuch (Dartmouth/SVSEF Gold Team) claim an impressive 2nd place. Will Koch added a strong 12th-place finish, while Mia Case led the women in 29th.

“What a season,” said Becky Flynn, SVSEF Cross Country Program Director. “This team showed up under pressure with passion and grit, supporting one another through every challenge along the way. It was a wonderful way to wrap up what has been an incredible season.”

Head Gold Team Coach Peter Holmes added, “SuperTour Finals this year was really fun. We had great weather in Craftsbury, which made for a fantastic spring weekend of racing. It was the perfect way to wrap up the season, and now we’re looking forward to some rest before getting back to training.”

Elijah Weenig reflected on the weekend, saying, “It was a super fun way to wrap up the season. The conditions were great for late March, and the energy was high. The courses were tough—especially the 40k—but it made for some really rewarding racing. I’m definitely looking forward to some well-earned rest.”

The weekend also marked the final race of Peter Wolter’s professional career. A longtime leader and dedicated member of the SVSEF community, Wolter leaves behind a lasting legacy of commitment, success, sportsmanship, and impact.

“He has been a steady and inspiring presence, and he will be deeply missed,” said Flynn. “We are incredibly grateful for all he has given to this program and community.”

Sammy Smith did not compete in the series, having returned to Stanford University following a full winter racing on the World Cup circuit and competing in the 2026 Winter Olympics and World Cup Finals.

The SuperTour Finals brought together the fastest skiers in North America to close out the 2025–2026 season, with national titles awarded in the Classic Sprint, Club Relay, and Freestyle Mass Start.

For full results, please visit: Super Tour Finals - Full Results

Photo of Will Koch getting himself to the front of the pack in the 40km skate mass start at SuperTour Finals: Tryg Solberg

by Heather Foster

Gary Black Jr. Memorial Ski Race Honors Black’s Joyful Energy and Love of Ski Racing

SVSEF alpine youth programs wrap up season with a costume-ridden race off the top of Baldy

On Sunday March 29, Sun Valley Ski Education (SVSEF) hosted the ninth annual Gary Black, Jr. Memorial race on Sun Valley’s Saddle Up ski run by Upper Warm Springs. Girls and boys from the SVSEF Alpine Baldy Devo (U8), U10, U12, and U14 teams competed in a dual-panel ski race followed by a springtime bar-be-que where the end-of-season individual awards and Gary Black Jr. Memorial Race perpetual trophies were presented.

The Gary Black Memorial race honors and memorializes a ski racing community legend, Gary Black, Jr., whose life was taken too soon in 2017. It honors Gary’s love for ski racing, the enthusiasm of what it's like to be a ski racer, and continues his legacy through the next generation of ski racers. Black’s success, commitment, and enthusiasm to the ski racing community shone bright this weekend.

“My father would be humbled and honored by the recognition the SVSEF community shows him on an annual basis,” said Amanda Black, eldest daughter of the late Gary Black, Jr. “He would have loved to see the enthusiasm and passion all of these young athletes have for the sport he adored and spent his life supporting.”

There was no shortage of smiles, fun costumes, friendly competitive spirit, and team camaraderie in the race; and podiums or not, all the athletes felt the fun vibes of wrapping up their season amongst their teammates under blue skies and sunshine. Gary’s youngest daughter Lexi Black, an alumni of the SVSEF Alpine Program, was on hand to share a few words with the young skiers. After the event she had this to say, “Watching the Devo team run around the lawn, climbing trees, and playing games made me think that while dad loved all things ski racing, celebrations, and fun, the centerpiece of his life really was the friendships he built, curated, and connected. When I had a chance to speak on Sunday, I tried to speak directly to the kids and let them know what was really important, and that’s to cherish your friends and loved ones.”

“The all encompassing and indefatigable energy Gary had for skiing makes the Gary Black, Jr. Memorial event the perfect venue for honoring who he was,” said Heather Black, wife of the late Gary Black, Jr. “Gary loved nothing more than to ski, share laughs, and have fun, and this ski race epitomizes that energy.”

Every spring, all SVSEF Junior Programs come together for the Gary Black, Jr. to celebrate the culmination of the season. Costume-clad kids (no race suits allowed) from the age of four to 13 were paired within their age groups in the dual format panel slalom.

“What an amazing day for the Gary Black Jr. Memorial,” said Chuck Harris, SVSEF Alpine Junior Program Director. “The race was moved to the top of Baldy due to our early spring conditions and it was the perfect day to end our season for all the Junior Programs. A huge thank you to Sun Valley for helping all of our kids pursue their love of skiing!”

Claudia Stern, SVSEF Alpine U12 North Series Head Coach spoke to the adaptability, resiliency, and growth realized this season. “What a season it has been! Despite challenging conditions thrown at us by an erratic Mother Nature, I would say we had a great season. We were able to do quite a bit of free skiing early on and took full advantage of amazing conditions at Rotarun thanks to Julian and his team. Everyone showed up with a good attitude and drive every day and it showed in the impressive improvements seen throughout the winter.”

Sarah Schwing, SVSEF Alpine Baldy Devo Head Coach reflected on the season, “From foundational drills on Lower River Run to charging down the steeps of Warm Springs, our Devo athletes have made incredible strides this season! We wrapped it all up at the Gary Black Jr. Memorial Race—a fantastic event that reminds us all why we love ski racing. What a fun way to end the year!”

The Gary Black, Jr. Memorial Perpetual Trophies were presented to the following athletes based on their results in Sunday’s race:

Gretchen Fraser Award for fastest U10 Female—Clementine Brumbach
Pete Patterson Award for fastest U10 Male—Ford Rixon
Kathleen Harrison Mortimer Award for the fastest U12 Female—Alta Questad
Billy Kleine Award for the fastest U12 Male—Dylan Smiley
Bonnie Russell Award for the fastest U14 Female—Bria Smiley
Smith Goggle Award for the fastest U14 Male—Alex Grant
Mini World Cup Overall Award—Ruby Rogers and Arthur McNeal
Roy Hobson Award for fastest overall Female and Male of the day—Alta Questad and Alex Grant

On hand to help present the perpetual trophies were members of the Kleine Family, including Janet Kleine who shared, “On behalf of the Kleine family, we were honored to present the Billy Kleine Memorial Trophy to Dylan Smiley as a tribute to his talent, hard work and his and his family’s commitment to skiing. We were pleased to be included in the Gary Black, Jr. Memorial race awards and have the opportunity to share who Billy Kleine was, and why there was an award established for him 64 years ago. It was wonderful to make connections to Adele Savaria, Chuck Harris, David Butterfield, and Heather Hofstetter-Dawson who made this experience possible.”

Gary Black, Jr. Memorial Race results and individual year-end awards for all Alpine Junior Program Teams are also included below.

Gary Black, Jr. Memorial Race Results

U8 Girls

1 Clark Livingston

2 Sullivan Kochvar

3 Anna Kloster

4 Emilia Eng Greener

5 Phoebe Taylor

6 Harland Hustis

7 Finley Binns

8 Finley Vaughan

9 Georgia Brandenburg

10 Wren Schwing

11 Grace Copperman

12 Briony Cook

13 Ava Boeger

14 Anso Tyo

U8 Boys

1 Banks Rixon

2 Harrison Brumbach

3 Charlie Favrot

4 Jasper Rogers

5 Dean Carr

6 Bodhi Zelaya

7 James Patton

U10 Girls

1 Clementine Brumbach

2 Elise Eng Greener

3 Quinn Woodward

4 Emma Osher

5 Ruby Rogers

6 Grace Boccabella

7 Torin Farmer

8 Fallon McClung

9 Beau Jaeger

10 Wren Presnell

11 Kyle Bruun

12 Rose VanderWyst

13 Lottie Cook

14 Aveline McMahan

U10 Boys

1 Ford Rixon

2 Werner McNamara

3 John Massa

4 Bode Smith

5 Huxley Binns

6 Smith Matthews

7 Brock Smith

8 Arthur McNeal

9 Wade Carr

10 Liam Gilligan

11 Bear Larkin

12 Patrick Phillips

13 Brenner Ehleringer

14 Kingsley Bruun

15 Ellis Gouley

U12 Girls

1 Alta Questad

2 Sophie Robinson

3 Marie McNeal

4 Amelia Beck

5 Kayla Kloster

6 Stellie Turzian

7 Ivy McNamara

8 Freya Moffat

9 Maude Bates

10 Dylan Spengler

11 Chandler Letson

12 Rosie Hill

13 Theo Young

14 Lila VanderWyst

15 Delaney Woodward

16 Juniper Farmer

17 Morgan Thomas

U12 Boys

1 Dylan Smiley

2 Vance Gardner

3 Tucker Thurston

4 Walker Gove

5 Dillon Wells

U14 Girls

1 Bria Smiley

2 Halley McGrew

3 Kinley Letson

4 McKenna Steel

5 McKenna Minas

6 Reese Woodward

7 Avery Allen

8 Charlotte

9 Kaitlin Cooper

10 Casey Rolf

U14 Boys

1 Alex Grant

2 Charlie Spengler

3 Breclan McCarthy

4 Brixen Ehleringer

5 Halsten Bruun

6 Hunter Gove

7 Reid Wilke

8 Truman Tarrant

U8 Baldy Devo Year End Awards

Coaches Award Girls: (for the athletes that demonstrate good listening, applying the skills they learn, and is a good teammate)—Genevieve Johnson and Clark Livingston
Coaches Award Boys: (for the athletes that demonstrate good listening, applying the skills they learn, and is a good teammate)—Harrison Brumbach and Ben Jacobs
Most Improved: (this award is for the athlete that show the greatest improvement throughout the season)—Kiran Kumar and Briony Cook
CHEESO Award: (for the athletes that go no matter the conditions as the saying goes, “Cheeso would go!” These kids are the ones getting after it.)—Sullivan Kochvar and Cale Clarke
SUNSHINE Award: (for the athlete that is always having a good day! These kids had to ski all kinds of conditions this year and sometimes limited terrain… these are the kids with a smile on their face and keep it positive.)—Finley Vaughan and Rudy Noren
KANONE (pronounce CAN-ONE) Award: (a German word for expert skier, it translates figurately as one who is an expert, an ace, or one who is very skilled at a task. Overall, the athlete that demonstrates all the skills we assess at our evaluation.)—Emilia Eng and Dean Carr
COWBOY UP Award:(for the athlete who gets up after a big crash and really shows grit, they bounce back from anything, resilient)—James Patton
HOWARD DEAN & PEGGY DEAN: (this is for the athlete that embodies a LOVE for skiing and is always having a good day)—Bodhi Zelaya and Ava Boeger
Most Dedicated: (an athlete with one of the highest attendance rates and continues to show up even after hard days)—Anso Tyo
Attendance Awards (kids with over 20 days): Anso Tyo, Ava Boeger, Emilia Eng, Genevieve Johnson, Sullivan Kochvar, Wren Schwing, Keenan Johnson, Charles Favrot, Arne Beatty, Rudy Noren, Bodhi Zelaya, Dean Carr, Cale Clarke