Big Mountain Team Delivers Standout Performances at Jackson Hole
Zack Torres and Scout Bilbro take the top step; Alex Leahy honored with Bryce Newcomb Spirit Award at IFSA Junior 3
The Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation (SVSEF) Big Mountain Team posted exceptional results at the Jackson Hole IFSA Junior 3 competition, earning multiple podium finishes and a special athlete recognition award for dedication to the sport and embodying true passion and enthusiasm for freeride competition.
Zack Torres dominated the U19 Ski Men’s division, capturing first place in what marks his second win of the season. The victory solidifies Torres’s position as one of the top competitors in his division.
In the women’s U15 Snowboard division, Scout Bilbro rode to a first-place finish with an incredible run that showcased technical skill and bold line selection.
Beyond purely competitive success, SVSEF Big Mountain skier Alex Leahy was awarded the prestigious Bryce Newcomb Spirit Award. The award honors the spirit of Bryce Newcomb, a passionate and talented skier who was known for his inclusive approach to the sport and contagious enthusiasm. Bryce pushed the boundaries of freeride skiing while embodying core values of fun and friendship, and even served as a judge for youth freeride competitions.
Leahy’s recognition is particularly meaningful as he returned to competition this season after recovering from two torn ACLs. The Jackson Hole event marked his first national competition since his injuries, and he finished 12th out of more than 80 athletes in his division.
“Alex is a very deserving recipient of this award,” said SVSEF Big Mountain Program Director Sarah Verst. “After navigating two torn ACLs, he returned this season with an outstanding attitude and commitment to the sport. We are so proud to have Alex on our team, and there is no one more deserving of this recognition.”
Verst also acknowledged the adaptability and support shown by SVSEF families this season: “We truly could not have pulled off the Jackson trip without the support and adaptability of our families…This season continues to throw us some curveballs, but we’re committed to staying flexible, creative, and—most importantly—having fun while we train. Thanks for bearing with us as we adapt.”
Photo: SVSEF Big Mountain Team athletes Scout Bilbro (R) and Zack Torres (L) enjoying their 1st place medals in Jackson.
SVSEF ATHLETE RESULTS
U19 Big Mountain Ski Men
1st - Zack Torres
12th - Alexander Leahy
13th - Hank Greener
30th - Kobi Bilbro
44th - Kyle Cooper
46th - Jude Carter
9th - Hoken Johnston
60th - Cruz Bilbro
U19 Big Mountain Ski Women
8th - Tess Lightner
12th - Anna Yuras
13th - Maya Gunn
16th - Scarlett Carruth
21st - Fleur Brazil
25th - Jayden Crist
U15 Big Mountain Snowboard Women
1st - Scout Bilbro
Complete results for each event may be found at: https://liveheats.com/events/424489
SVSEF Snowboard Futures Team Excels at USASA Big Mountain West Series at Dollar Mountain
Camille Armeen claims Beverly Hay Cup on home snow
The Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation (SVSEF) Snowboard Futures Team hosted and competed in the USASA Big Mountain West Series at Dollar Mountain Jan. 30 - Feb. 1. The three-day event featured two slopestyle competitions and a rail jam. At the culmination of the weekend, the prestigious Beverly Hay Cup was presented to the overall male and female champions from the combined slopestyle competition results.
SVSEF's Camille Armeen dominated the Youth Women (15-16) division, claiming first place in both slopestyle events to earn the Beverly Hay Cup for overall female champion. The award, presented to the top male and female competitors across the weekend, also went to Asher Loscalzo of Park City Ski & Snowboard on the men's side.
"The Sun Valley Futures Snowboard Team hosted and competed in our home USASA event this past weekend at Dollar Mountain," said Coach Ed Sawicz. "The Sun Valley park crew did an amazing job building the courses and our athletes were excited to apply their hard work and put their training to the test!"
SVSEF athletes delivered consistent performances throughout the weekend, with multiple top-10 finishes across all divisions. Charlie Theobald showcased his versatility with a third-place rail jam finish and top-10 results in both slopestyle events. In the Junior Men (17-18) division, Uzzi Almaras secured a third-place finish in the first slopestyle and added a fourth-place result in the second event, while Karsen Miller earned second place in the final slopestyle competition.
The USASA (United States of America Snowboard and Freeski Association) Big Mountain West Series provides competitive opportunities for youth snowboard athletes across the western United States, offering progression pathways from grassroots to elite-level competition.
SVSEF Athlete Results
Slopestyle #1 (January 30)
Youth Women (15-16):
1st – Camille Armeen
Youth Men (15-16):
6th – Charlie Theobald
8th – Rylan Olson
11th – Bixby Swanger
Junior Men (17-18):
3rd – Uzzi Almaras
Rail Jam (January 31)
Youth Men (15-16):
3rd – Charlie Theobald
6th – Rylan Olson
7th – Bixby Swanger
Slopestyle #2 (February 1)
Youth Women (15-16):
1st – Camille Armeen
Youth Men (15-16):
4th – Rylan Olson
6th – Charlie Theobald
9th – Bixby Swanger
11th – Rory Gadhia
Junior Men (17-18):
2nd – Karsen Miller
4th – Uzzi Almaras
Beverly Hay Cup Overall Champions:
Women – Camille Armeen (SVSEF)
Men – Asher Loscalzo (Park City Ski & Snowboard)
Photo: Beverly Hay Cup overall competition winners Camille Armeen (SVSEF) and Asher Loscalzo (Park City Ski and Snowboard)
Complete results for each event may be found at: https://www.usasa.org/https://liveheats.com/events/436339
SVSEF XC Gold Team’s Jake Adicoff and Peter Wolter Heading to 2026 Paralympics
U.S. Paralympics Nordic Skiing Team names Adicoff and guide Wolter to Winter Games roster
Officially announced on Monday, two members of the Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation’s XC Gold Team are heading to the 2026 Winter Paralympic Games, set to take place March 6-15 in Milano Cortina. Five-time Para World Champion and now four-time Paralympian, Jake Adicoff, along with teammate and guide, Peter Wolter, will pair up for Team USA on the world’s biggest stage.
Continuing his dominance this season in the Vision Impaired (VI) FIS Cross Country Para World Cup events in Europe, Adicoff won the 10km Classic distance race and the 10km Free distance race at Finsterau, Germany Jan. 14 and 15 and followed with a third-place finish in the Sprint Final on Jan. 17. Less than two weeks later, Adicoff won both the 10km Classic Interval Start on Jan. 31 and the 10km Classic Mass Start on Feb. 1 at Szklarska Poreba-Jakuszyce, Poland.
Peter Wolter, SVSEF XC Gold Team member and teammate, was Adicoff’s guide for four of the five races. The pair first found success as a team in the 2024-25 season when they brought home the gold medal in the 20km Interval Free at the 2025 FIS Para Cross Country World Championships at Toblach, Italy. Three weeks later they brought home silver in the Sprint Final at the 2025 FIS Nordic World Championships in Trondheim, Norway in front of 30,000 excited fans.
The two friends were both raised in the Wood River Valley and came up together through the Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation’s Cross Country Program. Wolter was a freshman in high school when Adicoff was a senior. Wolter is a former All-American at Middlebury College in Vermont and has represented the United States at several world cup events over the past few years.
“Clearly they have a great thing going!” said Becky Flynn, SVSEF Cross Country Program Director. “Jake opted out of two of the races in Poland due to illness, which seemed to be the right decision—he was in top form for the remaining events in Poland and now he and Peter are in strong form to keep dialing things in for Milano Cortina.”
Adicoff’s performance and the results in Germany and Poland should set the duo up well heading into the Paralympics, as these races mimic two of the events in Italy, and will allow for them to feel confident going into the Games.
“They most certainly will be the ones to watch and will be the favored in many of the events,” said Flynn. “We are so excited to have Jake and Peter representing the USA, the SVSEF Gold Team, and the Sun Valley community.”
Gold Team Head Coach Peter Holmes and former Gold Team member and guide to Adicoff at 2022 Beijing Paralympics, Sam Wood, have been selected to serve as members of the coaching staff at the Paralympic Games. “We are thrilled both Peter and Sam can be there to support Jake, Peter, and the entire team,” said Flynn.
Gold Team member Peter Wolter is thrilled to be part of it all. “While Jake’s heading into his fourth Paralympic Games at this point, I know he’s excited to be racing at this year’s Games in the iconic Dolomite mountains and his strong early season results have helped him build the confidence needed to crush the four races in Italy.”
“I’m really looking forward to getting my first Paralympic experience,” said Wolter. “From the opportunity to guide the best vision impaired skier in the world, walk in the Opening Ceremony in Verona, all the way down to the SKIMS Team USA care package, there are many things to get me excited.”
To view complete results online for the five FIS Para Cross Country World Cup races, visit:
- Jan. 14: Germany - VI 10km Classic (with guide, Peter Wolter)
- Jan. 15: Germany - VI 10km Free (with guide, Reid Goble)
- Jan. 17: Germany - VI Sprint Final (with guide, Peter Wolter)
- Jan. 31: Poland - VI 10km Classic Interval Start (with guide, Peter Wolter)
- Feb. 1: Poland - VI 10km Classic Mass Start (with guide, Peter Wolter)
To view Jake Adicoff’s Team USA bio, visit: https://www.teamusa.com/profiles/jake-adicoff-829336
To view the U.S. Paralympic Nordic Skiing Team announcement, visit: https://www.usparanordic.org/news/2026/february/02/u-s-paralympics-nordic-skiing-names-12-athletes-to-milano-cortina-2026-paralympic-winter-games-team
Schedule for the Paralympic Winter Games Milano-Cortina Cross-Country Skiing:
https://www.olympics.com/en/milano-cortina-2026/paralympic-games/schedule/ccs
For further information about the SVSEF XC Gold Team, please visit: https://svsef.org/programs/cross-country/xc-gold/
PHOTO: Jake Adicoff and Peter Wolter await gold medal on podium at the 10k Classic in Poland.
SVSEF Alpine U12 North Series Athletes Shine at Monroe Cup
Deep field of slalom racers convene at Rotarun for competitive qualifying event
The Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation (SVSEF) hosted the annual Monroe Cup at Rotarun Ski Area on January 31 and February 1. Nearly two hundred competitors competed in the event for U12 athletes from the North Intermountain Division (ID, WY) and it serves as a qualifier for athletes in the North to compete against athletes in the South Intermountain Division (UT) at the IMD Championships at Jackson Hole, WY March 20-22.
“We just had a spectacular Monroe Cup race at Rotarun!” said SVSEF Alpine U12 North Series Head Coach, Claudia Stern. “Every single one of our North Series athletes showed up with purpose, drive, and showed us some of their best skiing to date. We had multiple podiums and personal bests, a few crashes, but mostly lots of smiles and team spirit. Thanks to all the volunteers, and to Julian Tyo and his team who managed to lay out an incredible venue for us despite this year's lack of snow and warm temps."
The Monroe Cup continues to honor the legacy of Lane Monroe who was the Program Director and Head Alpine Coach at SVSEF from 1970-1996, with a hiatus between 1973 and 1976 to serve as a coach for the U.S. Ski Team. From 1973-1974, Monroe was the Men's Special Teams coach and then the Head Women's Coach from 1975-1976. The Monroe Cup was first held in 1997 on Bald Mountain, and continued there until 2021 when it moved to Rotarun Ski Area as a slalom-only event.
The girl’s races saw fierce competition along with wide smiles and lots of glitter. SVSEF's athletes were led by Alta Questad who claimed third place in Race 1 with a combined time of 58.81 seconds and Amelia Beck securing third place in Race 2 (1:05.49). Marie McNeal showcased her versatility with a strong second-place finish in Race 2 after a challenging first race. SVSEF athletes dominated the field, with multiple athletes finishing in the top 20 across both races.
Asa Sattler led the SVSEF boys with a victory in Race 1, posting the fastest time of 1:00.72. Walker Gove responded with a commanding win in Race 2, finishing in 54.87—the fastest time of the entire weekend. Vance Gardiner demonstrated consistency with top-10 finishes in both races, placing eighth in Race 1 and seventh in Race 2.
After the dust settled on two days of competitive racing at Rotarun, Mia Anderson of McCall Winter Sports Club (MWSC) was awarded the Monroe Cup after finishing in first place for Race 1 and second place in Race 2 for the girls. Grand Targhees Ski and Snowboard Foundation’s (GTSSF) Liam Gardner won the Monroe Cup for the boys with a third place in Race 1 and second place in Race 2 during Sunday’s races.
SVSEF Athlete Results
Women's Slalom Race 1 (January 31)
3rd – Alta Questad (U12) – 58.81
4th – Amelia Beck (U12) – 1:00.25
6th – Sophie Robins (U12) – 1:01.20
8th – Kayla Kloster (U12) – 1:03.52
9th – Rienza Buoncristiani (U12) – 1:05.66
11th – Dylan Meyer (U12) – 1:07.29
13th – Dylan Spengler (U12) – 1:09.92
14th – Payton Minor (U12) – 1:10.02
15th – Blakely Martens (U12) – 1:11.97
17th – Ivy McNamara (U12) – 1:12.46
18th – Lexi Barthel (U12) – 1:12.52
19th – Teodora Smither (U12) – 1:12.96
20th – Estelle Turzian (U12) – 1:12.98
24th – Freya Moffat (U12) – 1:14.27
26th – Riley Copperman (U12) – 1:15.17
27th – Lila Vanderwyst (U12) – 1:15.56
35th – Maude Bates (U12) – 1:19.21
37th – Eleanor Hopeman (U12) – 1:20.20
41st – Ruby Rogers (U10) – 1:20.55
43rd – Morghan Kearney (U12) – 1:21.29
46th – Elise Eng Greener (U10) – 1:21.90
48th – Stella Smith (U12) – 1:22.43
49th – Morgan Thomas (U12) – 1:22.47
51st – Tindsley Glenne (U12) – 1:23.07
53rd – Rosie Hill (U12) – 1:24.66
60th – Marie McNeal (U12) – 1:27.38
62nd – Eleanor Robinson (U12) – 1:30.81
65th – Emma Osher (U10) – 1:33.04
66th – Lottie Cook (U10) – 1:33.05
69th – Maeve Conklin (U12) – 1:35.98
74th – Lark Johnson (U10) – 1:38.95
76th – Kingsley Loughlin (U12) – 1:39.84
78th – Wren Presnell (U10) – 1:41.51
80th – Kyle Bruun (U12) – 1:46.02
Women's Slalom Race 2 (January 31)
2nd – Marie McNeal (U12) – 1:05.03
3rd – Amelia Beck (U12) – 1:05.49
6th – Sophie Robins (U12) – 1:06.85
7th – Kayla Kloster (U12) – 1:08.42
9th – Rienza Buoncristiani (U12) – 1:11.93
10th – Payton Minor (U12) – 1:13.30
11th – Dylan Spengler (U12) – 1:13.54
12th – Estelle Turzian (U12) – 1:13.63
14th – Mckenna McCarthy (U12) – 1:14.25
15th – Ivy McNamara (U12) – 1:14.31
16th – Blakely Martens (U12) – 1:14.71
17th – Teodora Smither (U12) – 1:15.25
18th – Freya Moffat (U12) – 1:16.33
19th – Lexi Barthel (U12) – 1:16.75
22nd – Riley Copperman (U12) – 1:18.66
26th – Eleanor Hopeman (U12) – 1:20.84
30th – Lila Vanderwyst (U12) – 1:21.68
31st – Tindsley Glenne (U12) – 1:22.94
32nd – Stella Smith (U12) – 1:24.09
36th – Ruby Rogers (U12) – 1:24.58
37th – Maude Bates (U12) – 1:24.58
43rd – Elise Eng Greener (U12) – 1:26.67
46th – Morghan Kearney (U12) – 1:27.47
47th – Grace Boccabella (U10) – 1:27.65
49th – Morgan Thomas (U12) – 1:28.15
53rd – Clementine Brumbach (U10) – 1:29.11
54th – Torin Farmer (U10) – 1:29.21
55th – Blakeslee Tindall (U12) – 1:29.32
56th – Rosie Hill (U12) – 1:29.39
58th – Charlotte Mitchell (U12) – 1:30.41
61st - Uzi Hale (U10) 1:30.94
62nd – Eleanor Robinson (U12) – 1:32.98
63rd – Lottie Cook (U10) – 1:34.19
64th – Beau Jaeger (U10) – 1:34.41
69th – Emma Osher (U10) – 1:36.94
71st – Lark Johnson (U10) – 1:38.13
72nd – Siena Martin (U10) – 1:38.45
78th – Kingsley Loughlin (U10) – 1:42.45
79th – Maeve Conklin (U10) – 1:42.62
82nd – Wren Presnell (U10) – 1:45.01
88th – Rose Vanderwyst (U10) – 1:50.35
Men's Slalom Race 1 (February 1)
1st – Asa Sattler (U12) – 1:00.72
3rd – Evan McGregor (U12) – 1:01.42
8th – Vance Gardiner (U12) – 1:03.18
14th – Cole Martens (U12) – 1:08.54
15th – Keller Alan Spachman (U12) – 1:08.73
22nd – Tucker Thurston (U12) – 1:11.51
24th – Dillon Wells (U12) – 1:12.67
25th – Tommy Banta (U12) – 1:13.20
34th – Nathan Sattler (U12) – 1:14.79
35th – Brock Smith (U12) – 1:15.83
36th – Graham Lyle (U12) – 1:16.25
37th – Werner McNamara (U12) – 1:16.62
38th – Blaise Terra (U12) – 1:16.73
42nd – Samuel Sattler (U12) – 1:17.47
45th – Arthur McNeal (U12) – 1:18.88
47th – Rowan Hoffman (U12) – 1:19.42
49th – Evan Schwing (U12) – 1:19.98
53rd – John Massa (U12) – 1:24.41
57th – Luca Smither (U12) – 1:25.33
58th – Smith Matthews (U12) – 1:25.56
60th – Mitchell Crist (U12) – 1:28.21
63rd – Patrick Phillips (U12) – 1:29.99
67th – Henry Parks (U12) – 1:31.44
69th – Jayden Orihuela (U12) – 1:32.19
72nd – Brenner Ehleringer (U12) – 1:37.11
74th – Jace Terra (U12) – 1:38.61
75th – Ellis Gouley (U12) – 1:38.71
Men's Slalom Race 2 (February 1)
1st – Walker Gove (U12) – 54.87
2nd – Ford Rixon (U12) – 56.25
4th – Dylan Smiley (U12) – 57.08
7th – Vance Gardiner (U12) – 58.82
13th – Cole Martens (U12) – 1:01.60
23rd – Tommy Banta (U12) – 1:05.76
25th – Tucker Thurston (U12) – 1:06.32
33rd – Nathan Sattler (U12) – 1:07.40
36th – Dillon Wells (U12) – 1:07.68
37th – Arthur McNeal (U12) – 1:08.30
38th – Graham Lyle (U12) – 1:08.43
41st – Brock Smith (U12) – 1:09.09
43rd – James Christopher (U12) – 1:09.39
44th – Blaise Terra (U12) – 1:09.66
46th – Rowan Hoffman (U12) – 1:11.02
48th – Samuel Sattler (U12) – 1:12.78
51st – Werner McNamara (U12) – 1:13.50
56th – Will Turzian (U12) – 1:14.90
57th – Luca Smither (U12) – 1:15.46
59th – Smith Matthews (U12) – 1:15.66
60th – John Massa (U12) – 1:16.36
65th – Keller Alan Spachman (U12) – 1:19.53
67th – Patrick Phillips (U12) – 1:20.31
70th – Henry Parks (U12) – 1:21.49
75th – Jayden Orihuela (U12) – 1:24.07
78th – Brenner Ehleringer (U12) – 1:25.81
80th – Kingsley Bruun (U12) – 1:28.05
81st – Ellis Gouley (U12) – 1:30.38
84th – Jace Terra (U12) – 1:34.72
Photo: Mia Anderson of McCall Winter Sports Club (MWSC) was awarded the overall Monroe Cup for the girls with Marie McNeal in second and Amelia Beck in third.
Results for each race may be found at the following link, select “North Series”: https://imdalpine.org/race-results/
Up Next for SVSEF Alpine: SVSEF will host the 35th Annual Laura Flood Memorial Race in Sun Valley Feb. 19-24. For details on the race, visit: https://svsef.org/laura-flood-memorial-race/
About the Monroe Cup North Series
The Monroe Cup is a longstanding Intermountain Division slalom series that provides competitive racing opportunities for youth athletes. Hosted at Rotarun Ski Hill in Hailey, Idaho, the event welcomes athletes from clubs across the region for technical racing in a supportive, competitive environment.
About Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation
Since its inception in 1966, the Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation has been a longstanding pillar in the community, providing snowsport programs and offering academic assistance to support student-athletes in reaching their highest potential. SVSEF offers an array of programs for athletes ages five and up, from learn-to-ski and ride through FIS and other national and international-level competition. The organization offers financial assistance to families, so that anyone who wishes to may participate. For more information, please visit svsef.org.
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SVSEF Cross Country Teams Open Race Season at Soldier Hollow, UT Super Qualifier
Gold Team podiums, deep sprint fields, and standout efforts across Prep, Comp, and PG teams
Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation Cross Country (XC) athletes from the Prep, Comp, Post Grad (PG), and Gold teams kicked off their 2026 race season Jan. 23–25 at Soldier Hollow Nordic Center in Midway, Utah, competing in the Soldier Hollow Super Qualifier and Rocky Mountain Intercollegiate Ski Association (RMISA) Utah Invitational.
The three-day race weekend featured a Classic Sprint on Friday, a Freestyle Individual Start on Saturday, and a 15km Classic Mass Start on Sunday. Friday’s sprint served as a Junior Super Qualifier, welcoming athletes from five western divisions — Intermountain, Rocky Mountain, High Plains, Far West, and Pacific Northwest Ski Association — while Saturday combined Super Qualifier and RMISA collegiate racing. Sunday’s mass start capped the weekend with RMISA competition open to U18 and U20 athletes.
Despite a late start to the race season due to low snowfall, SVSEF athletes delivered strong results across age groups, advancing deep into sprint heats, earning podium finishes, and gaining valuable early-season experience.
“We’re really proud of all the hard work our athletes have put in over the past few months,” said Max Polito, Head PG Coach and Assistant Comp Team Coach. “We’ve seen lots of technical and aerobic progress since our last training camp. Despite the late start, the athletes leveraged their training and preparation to produce strong performances throughout the weekend.
The Classic Sprint highlighted the depth of the SVSEF program, with 12 athletes advancing into heats in a highly competitive field
“The team had a great start to the race season at our first Junior National Qualifier,” said Comp Team Head Coach Chris Mallory. “Having that many skiers move on from the sprint prologue was a great sign, and we’re excited to build from it.”
Gold Team athletes anchored the weekend with podium finishes in distance events, while Prep, Comp, and PG athletes showed steady progress and resilience across multiple disciplines
“It was inspiring to see our Gold Team members racing, finishing on the podium, and then cheering on younger athletes who were racing at this level for the first time,” said Cross Country Program Director Becky Flynn. “The energy was high, the team spirit was strong, and Soldier Hollow’s race crew did an incredible job preparing the trails despite challenging conditions."
SVSEF Athlete Results
Friday, Jan. 23 – Classic Sprint
U18/20/Open Men (Overall)
5th - Charlie St. George
11th - Zach Quesnel
19th - Nick Gardiner
U18/20/Open Women (Overall)
19th - Natalie Carlson
55th - Josie Bolinger
73rd - Anna Gilman
U16 Men (Overall)
4th - Henry Flynn
15th - Bailey Kurtz
24th - Owen Wellner
U16 Women (Overall)
11th - Stella St. George
12th - Josephine Renner
27th - Sydney Nelson
U14 Men (Overall)
15th - James Holman
16th - Augie Allaire
26th - Ben Wellner
U14 Women (Overall)
4th - Payton Daley-Scheingraber
7th - Nina O’Sullivan
27th - Penelope Zook
Saturday, Jan. 24 – Freestyle Individual Start
7.5km U18/20/Open Men
3rd - Will Koch (Gold Team)
9th - Elijah Weenig (Gold Team)
48th - Nick Gardiner
7.5km U18/20/Open Women
15th - Mia Case (Gold Team)
83rd - Natalie Carlson
116th - Josie Bolinger
5km U16 Men
16th - Thijs Lloyd
27th - Henry Flynn
29th - Bailey Kurtz
5km U16 Women
12th - Josephine Renner
15th - Stella St. George
27th - Sidney Brown
4km U14 Men
13th - James Holman
19th - Augie Allaire
30th - Ben Wellner
4km U14 Women
3rd - Payton Daley-Scheingraber
6th - Nina O’Sullivan
34th - Penelope Zook
Sunday, Jan. 25 – 15km Classic Mass Start
Open Men
3rd - Will Koch (Gold Team)
18th - Elijah Weenig (Gold Team)
28th - Tait Boschen
Open Women
16th - Mia Case (Gold Team)
Complete results can be found at:
https://www.muddydogsports.com/home
For detailed event information, please visit: https://utaholympiclegacy.org/event/super-qualifier-rmisa-ute-invite-january-22-25-2026/
Photo: Gold Team member Mia Case races in Soldier Hollow
SVSEF Freeski Opens USASA Competition Season with Strong Results in Jackson Hole
Podium finishes in slopestyle and rail jam highlight strong early-season preparation
Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation (SVSEF) Freeski team athletes kicked off their USASA competition season with a strong and encouraging weekend at Jackson Hole, WY, marking the team's first slopestyle event of the year. Athletes competed across slopestyle and rail jam disciplines, delivering podium performances that reflected solid early-season preparation and progression.
The Jackson Hole USASA event provided an important benchmark for the Freeski program, with athletes showing confidence, creativity, and consistency in competitive settings. Across both Open and Age Class divisions, SVSEF athletes earned multiple podium finishes and demonstrated strong performances throughout the field.
“It was great to see the athletes put their training into action this early in the season,” said SVSEF Freeski Program Director Tyler Conway. “The level of riding, focus, and progression we saw throughout the weekend was a strong indicator of where the team is headed.” Overall, the weekend represented a strong start to the competitive season and set a positive tone moving forward as athletes continue to build momentum through winter.
SVSEF Athlete Results
Slopestyle
Barrett Beyer - 2nd place, Open Class
Abe Gross - 1st place, Age Class
Van Ericksen - 3rd place, Age Class
Trandon Smart - 3rd place, Age Class
Rail Jam
Kai Van Bueren - 2nd place, Open Class
Van Ericksen - 2nd place, Age Class
The Freeski team will host USASA competition at Dollar Mountain January 30 – February 1.
Photo: SVSEF Freeski athlete Abe Gross secures first place in Slopestyle.
Sunny Skies and Strong Slalom Progress in Season’s Second Edition of Pastry Cup
SVSEF Alpine North Series tradition continues with emphasis on race prep and skill progression
The 2025-26 season’s second iteration of the Pastry Cup returned to Rotatrun on Sunday, January 25 offering Sun Valley Ski Education (SVSEF) Alpine U12 North Series athletes a chance to continue to put training and racing skills to the test in a festive, fun-focused environment.
Designed as a fun, development-focused competition, the Pastry Cup continues to play an important role in preparing young racers for the North Series calendar. With sunny skies, comfortable temperatures, and excellent snow conditions, athletes were able to push their limits while reinforcing strong fundamentals in the gates.
“What a perfect day for our second Pastry Cup!” said SVSEF Alpine North Series Team Head Coach Claudia Stern. “Everyone skied hard and fast and showed how much they have been working on their Slalom skiing these past few weeks.”
As the season continues, Pastry Cup events will continue to be a valuable checkpoint – reinforcing the importance of process, patience and consistent effort while keeping the joy of skiing front and center.
SVSEF Athlete Results
Girls Slalom Top Results
1st – Alta (Run 1: 25.03 | Run 2: 24.96 | Total: 49.99)
2nd – Marie (26.14 | 25.98 | 52.12)
3rd – Kayla (26.25 | 27.51 | 53.76)
4th – DillPickle (28.71 | 28.44 | 57.15)
5th – Tea (29.27 | 28.76 | 58.03)
6th – D. Money (28.90 | 29.32 | 58.21)
7th – Freya (30.09 | 29.28 | 59.37)
8th – Ivy (30.28 | 29.10 | 59.38)
9th – Blakely (29.98 | 29.79 | 59.77)
10th – Rienza (31.57 | 30.01 | 61.58)
11th – Lexi (31.18 | 31.38 | 62.56)
12th – Estelle (31.59 | 31.41 | 63.00)
13th – Riley (32.18 | 32.63 | 64.81)
14th – Eleanor H (32.15 | 32.70 | 64.85)
15th – Lila (32.40 | 32.46 | 64.86)
16th – PayPal (33.15 | 34.25 | 67.39)
17th – Rosie (34.15 | 34.16 | 68.31)
18th – Chandler (34.25 | 34.08 | 68.33)
19th – Tindsley (35.01 | 33.37 | 68.38)
20th – Maude (35.10 | 36.00 | 71.10)
21st – Amelia (45.93 | 26.70 | 72.63)
22nd – Eleanor R (35.73 | 38.05 | 73.78)
23rd – Stella (35.78 | 47.83 | 83.60)
— Morgan — DNF (35.02)
Boys Slalom Top Results
1st – Walker (Run 1: 24.41 | Run 2: 24.32 | Total: 48.74)
2nd – Asa (25.74 | 25.34 | 51.08)
3rd – DSmiley (26.90 | 26.37 | 53.27)
4th – Evan (26.99 | 26.44 | 53.43)
5th – Vance (27.21 | 27.32 | 54.53)
6th – Keller (28.84 | 29.54 | 58.38)
7th – Cole (29.54 | 29.18 | 58.71)
8th – Tucker (30.20 | 30.78 | 60.98)
9th – Dillon W (32.26 | 32.03 | 64.29)
10th – Tommy (31.62 | 33.37 | 64.99)
11th – Blaise (34.18 | 31.39 | 65.57)
12th – Jayden (38.14 | 38.67 | 76.81)
— Graham — DSQ (31.55)
Photo: Girls top three podium: Alta Questad, Marie McNeal, Kayla Kloster. Boys top three podium: Walker Gove, Asa Sattler, D. Smiley.
SVSEF Alpine U16 and U14 Athletes Build Speed and Confidence in Jackson Hole
Podium finishes and fast racing across three Super G races at Wes Barron Speed Series
The Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation Alpine U16 Team and second-year U14 athletes recently traveled to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort from January 23-26 for the Wes Barron Speed Series. The four-day event featured three Super G (SG) races for both men and women and was a U16 Regional and Tri-Divisional Championship qualifying event.
The Wes Barron Speed Series welcomed more than 150 athletes from across the Intermountain Division. SVSEF athletes were greeted with outstanding race conditions and challenging courses that tested speed, technique and confidence.
“SVSEF athletes performed well and gained confidence run-to-run throughout the series,” said U16 Head coach Nate Schwing. “Racing Super G provides a valuable progression where athletes take four runs down the racing piste on different course sets. By the final run, our athletes had the confidence to push their comfort zones and attack the hill and course.”
SVSEF Alpine U16 and second-year U14 women delivered consistent top results across the three-race series, led by Neena DeGennaro with a third-place finish in SG #1 and a runner-up finish in SG #2, while Bianca Smith claimed second place in SG #3 and added two additional top-five finishes. Savannah Pringle dominated the U14 field, earning first place among U14 athletes in all three races, including a ninth-place overall finish in SG #1.
On the men’s side, Paxton Harris highlighted the weekend with a second-place podium finish in SG #3 after placing fifth and sixth in the opening races, while Henry Questad secured a third-place finish in the final SG. Many SVSEF athletes finished inside the top 15 throughout the series, showcasing depth, consistency, and strong progression on Jackson Hole’s demanding Super G terrain.
SVSEF Athlete Results
Women’s Super G #1
3rd – Neena DeGennaro (U16)
5th – Bianca Smith (U16)
9th – Savannah Pringle (U14) (9th overall, 1st U14)
15th – Alexandra Heidel (U16)
Women’s Super G #2
2nd – Neena DeGennaro (U16)
5th – Bianca Smith (U16)
11th – Savannah Pringle (U14) (1st U14)
14th – Alexandra Heidel (U16)
Women’s Super G #3
2nd – Bianca Smith (U16)
5th – Neena DeGennaro (U16)
8th – Savannah Pringle (U14) (1st U14)
17th – Alexandra Heidel (U16)
Men’s Super G #1
6th – Paxton Harris (U16)
7th – Henry Questad (U16)
9th – Wyatt Limburg (U16)
11th – Corbin Flood (U16)
16th – Brooks Gove (U16)
Men’s Super G #2
5th – Paxton Harris (U16)
8th – Corbin Flood (U16)
9th – Henry Nordstrom (U16)
12th – Henry Questad (U16)
13th – Wyatt Limburg (U16)
18th – Brooks Gove (U16)
20th – Cam Beck (U16)
Men’s Super G #3
2nd – Paxton Harris (U16)
3rd – Henry Questad (U16)
10th – Corbin Flood (U16)
12th – Wyatt Limburg (U16)
17th – Jake Schlatter (U16)
18th – Cam Beck (U16)
20th – Henry Nordstrom (U16)
Photo: Paxton Harris secures second place in the Men's Super G race #3 in Jackson Hole
Complete results for each race may be found here: https://imdalpine.org/race-results/
Up Next for the Alpine U16 USSS Team: SVSEF will host the 35th Annual Laura Flood Memorial Race in Sun Valley Feb. 19-24
SVSEF Alpine U16 IMC Team Delivers Podium Performances at Snowbird Qualifier
Multiple podiums highlight first qualifying events of the season for U16 tech racers
Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation’s Alpine U16 IMC team competed January 11-14 at Snowbird Resort in the Snowbird IMC Qualifier, the first of three qualifying events for the U16 Regional Championships and Tri-Divisional Championships. The four-day event featured two slalom (SL) and two giant slalom (GS) races with deep fields for men and women.
Snowbird delivered ideal racing conditions throughout the series. SVSEF athletes remained focused and adaptable across the demanding schedule, showing composure and commitment from run to run as they kicked off their competitive qualifying race season.
“The Alpine U16s competed well at Snowbird in our first divisional qualifiers for U16 Regionals and Tri-Divisional Championships,” said SVSEF Alpine U16 head coach Nate Schwing. “We were greeted with four consecutive bluebird days with quality racing surfaces. Our athletes were locked in for four days of racing. They did well adapting daily and committed to giving their all from run to run on race day. A lot of positives were taken away from this series, and now we train towards our next race series, competing in Super G at the Wes Barron in Jackson.”
SVSEF athletes posted strong results throughout the Snowbird IMC Qualifier, highlighted by multiple podium finishes across slalom and giant slalom. Neena DeGennaro led the women with second-place finishes in both giant slalom races, along with a second-place finish in slalom, while Bianca Smith earned a third-place finish in giant slalom. On the men’s side, Paxton Harris captured a first-place finish in slalom and followed up with a second-place result in giant slalom, while Corbin Flood secured a first-place finish in giant slalom. Colter Bengston added to the podium count with a second-place finish in giant slalom and multiple top-ten results across the series.
SVSEF Athlete Results:
U16 Women’s SL #1 Jan. 11
5th – Neena DeGennaro
8th – Jasmine Smiley
14th – Piper Spengler
15th – Bianca Smith
16th Colette Duke
U16 Men’s SL #1 Jan. 11
7th – Henry Questad
U16 Women’s SL #2 Jan. 12
2nd – Neena DeGennaro
8th – Jasmine Smiley
9th – Piper Spengler
14th – Bianca Smith
15th – Olivia Harrington
16th – Camille Reid
18th – Colette Duke
U16 Men’s SL #2 Jan. 12
1st – Paxton Harris
7th – Colter Bengston
8th – Henry Questad
18th – Cameron Beck
U16 Women’s GS #1 Jan. 13
2nd – Neena DeGennaro
5th – Bianca Smith
11th – Jasmine Smiley
15th – Colette Duke
18th – Alexandra Heidel
20th – Piper Spengler
U16 Men’s GS #1 Jan. 13
1st – Corbin Flood
2nd – Colter Bengston
7th – Jake Schlatter
8th – Henry Questsd
13th – Brooks Gove
U16 Women’s GS #2 Jan. 14
2nd – Neena DeGennaro
3rd – Bianca Smith
9th – Jasmine Smiley
16th – Colette Duke
17th – Alexandra Heidel
U16 Men’s GS #2 Jan. 14
2nd – Paxton Harris
6th – Colter Bengston
7th – Cameron Beck
8th – Wyatt Limburg
15th – Henry Nordstrom
17th – Brooks Gove
18th – Kai Sammis
Photo: Corbin Flood in first place and Colter Bengston in second in GS #1, January 13th
For complete U16 IMD race results, click on the following link and go to the U16 Series button: https://imdalpine.org/race-results/
Four SVSEF Athletes to Represent Team USA at 2026 Winter Olympic Games
Sarchett, Smith, Hagenbuch make Olympic debut, Josey earns hat trick to third Olympic Games
The Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation (SVSEF) is proud to announce that four of its athletes—Ryder Sarchett (Alpine), Sammy Smith (Cross Country), John Steel Hagenbuch (Cross Country), and Chase Josey (Snowboard Halfpipe)—have been officially selected for the 2026 U.S. Olympic Team.
Selection to the U.S. Olympic Team represents the highest level of achievement in winter sport, and these athletes’ nominations reflect years of dedication, growth both on and off the snow, perseverance, and excellence on the national and international stage. The 2026 Winter Olympic Games will be held in Milan-Cortina, Italy, bringing together the world’s top winter sport athletes.
“I am incredibly proud of our athletes and what they’ve accomplished,” said Scott McGrew, Executive Director of SVSEF. “To see four Olympians emerge from our small mountain community is really extraordinary, and it speaks not only to their individual dedication and talent, but to the deep Olympic heritage that has shaped Sun Valley for generations. Our Wood River Valley home carries such a rich history of excellence, opportunity, and belief in what young athletes can become; that legacy continues with this amazing group of humans.”
These four athletes selected to represent Team USA came up through three different SVSEF programs and snowsport disciplines: Alpine, Cross Country, and Snowboarding.
“To see this level of achievement across three different programs and disciplines is no accident,” said McGrew. “It reflects years of intentional work and collaborations by our coaches, staff, families, and partners to create the right opportunities, at the right moments, with the right people, and in the right measure as athletes grow and develop within our programs here at SVSEF. We are deeply committed to supporting athletes over the long arc of their journey, not rushing outcomes, while building strong foundations that allow extraordinary potential to be realized. It's so rewarding to see this come together for our athletes and our community.”
Each athlete brings a unique competitive background shaped by their development at SVSEF.
Ryder Sarchett
Ryder Sarchett, an SVSEF alpine program alum, was named to the U.S. Olympic Team for the 2026 Winter Games following a series of consistent results in international competition including a top 10 finish at the World Cup in Val d’Isere. Sarchett developed through SVSEF’s Alpine program before advancing to national, collegiate, and World Cup-level racing. He is making his Olympic debut.
“The path I’ve taken to become an Olympian is built on hard work and belief in my own abilities, choosing to go after my dream even through the hard times when it felt almost impossible,” said Ryder Sarchett. “My love for skiing and sports in general played a huge role in my success as a skier. I truly loved skiing, and I held onto that. My parents were always very calm and never pushed me into ski racing; they made me feel like I was choosing to be there. I’d like to give thanks to everyone who helped me along the way. I'm really grateful to be here and there are so many people that helped me get here.”
Sammy Smith
Sammy Smith’s path to the Olympic Games has been defined by determination and steady progression. A longtime SVSEF athlete from development through the SVSEF XC Gold Team, Smith has built a reputation as a fierce competitor with a deep love for the sport, earning national and international success that culminated in Olympic selection.
“The Olympics have been a dream of mine for as long as I can remember, there is nothing more special than getting to represent your country, and I couldn’t be more excited to represent Team USA at the Olympic level,” said Sammy Smith. “I can’t wait to immerse myself in the experience, cheer on my fellow teammates, and hopefully have an opportunity to do some great racing of my own.”
John Steel Hagenbuch
John Steel Hagenbuch developed his talent through SVSEF’s Cross Country program and then on to NCAA racing for Dartmouth College, as a member of the U.S. Cross Country Ski Team, and also the SVSEF XC Gold Team. Known for his confidence, Hagenbuch brings both experience and momentum into his Olympic debut.
“The path to becoming an Olympian has been a steady progression with years of hard work, sacrifice, and dedication,” said John Steel Hagenbuch. “There are always ups and downs, strikes and gutters, and I’m incredibly honored to represent Team USA at the highest level. I’m looking forward to representing the USA, Dartmouth, SVSEF, my family, and my friends at the highest level. Race starts aren’t decided yet, but I’m hopeful to have the opportunity to give it my all!”
Chase Josey
Chase Josey, an SVSEF alum and Sun Valley native, was named to the U.S. Olympic Team for the 2026 Winter Games, marking the third Olympic selection in his career.
“Being named to the Olympic team this year is probably even more meaningful than the first two because the challenges getting here were greater,” said Chase Josey. “Through all the anticipation and a lot of what-ifs, I’m embracing the overall experience and am proud of the path I’ve taken as a strong ambassador for the sport and for my team. I hope I can be an inspiration and a role model for the next generations in snowboarding.”
More details about each athlete, including event schedules and competition dates, will be shared as they become available.
PHOTOS: @usskiteam @ussnowboardteam
About Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation
Since its inception in 1966, the Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation has been a longstanding pillar in the community, providing snowsport programs and offering academic assistance to support student-athletes in reaching their highest potential. SVSEF offers an array of programs for athletes ages five and up, from learn-to-ski and ride through FIS and other national and international-level competition. The organization distributes more than $500,000 annually in financial assistance to families, so that anyone who wishes to may participate. For more information, please visit svsef.org.
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Media Contact:
Heather Foster
Director of Strategic Communications & Development
[email protected]
208-860-5353 mobile