SVSEF Launches Journey to Gold Fund
An SVSEF initiative supporting the unseen work behind world-class performance
WHY THIS FUND EXISTS
As the 2026 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games quickly approach, Sun Valley and the Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation are once again preparing to send athletes to represent the United States on the world’s biggest stage. This moment continues a proud legacy of Sun Valley developing elite winter sport athletes grounded in our community’s traditions and values. Athletes like Gretchen Fraser, Pete Patterson, Christin Cooper, Reggie Crist, Picabo Street, Kaitlyn Farrington, Morgan Arritola, Chase Josey, Jake Adicoff, and Jesse Keefe to name a few.
At the Olympic level, talent and preparation are assumed, and National Teams provide the essential infrastructure to get there. What often separates athletes and determines success are the less visible elements of performance—conviction in the athlete’s potential, trusted familiarity, emotional grounding, and guidance from people who have been deeply invested in their lifelong Olympic journey.
The SVSEF Journey to Gold Fund supports the people and relationships surrounding Team USA athletes connected to Sun Valley—their mentors, families, and trusted support networks—meeting each athlete where they are and supporting what they need most. This flexible structure allows us to respond as team nominations and opportunities continue to unfold across all disciplines, respect individual needs and sensitivities, and invest strategically where support makes the greatest impact.
INITIAL ALLOCATION OF FUNDS
As we work to support Ryder Sarchett as our first officially nominated 2026 Olympian and await further announcements, the initial allocation from this fund will leverage the long-standing athlete-coach relationship between Ryder and his trusted coach and mentor, Will Brandenburg, within the broader framework of the Olympic Games. This support is designed to complement the exceptional work already being done by U.S. Ski & Snowboard’s national team coaching staff—reinforcing the belief that achieving Olympic excellence requires both a village, and a nation, working in concert.
Support through this fund will ensure Ryder's mentorship continues through final pre-Games preparation and competition. This is exactly the type of strategic, high-impact investment this fund was created to make—supporting the intangibles that elevate performance at the highest level.
Ryder’s qualification represents not only a personal milestone, but a historic achievement for Sun Valley and American alpine skiing.
Ryder is the first male alpine skier from Sun Valley to compete in the Winter Olympic Games since Reggie Crist raced downhill at the 1992 Albertville Games. Even more remarkably, Ryder is the first male technical alpine racer from Sun Valley to reach the Olympic Games in more than 45 years, following in the lineage of legends like Pete Patterson who last competed in the technical disciplines at the 1980 Lake Placid Games.
Ryder’s nomination sparked the creation of this fund to help make the most of the rare opportunities for Sun Valley athletes to excel among the world's best.
OUR COMMITMENT TO SUN VALLEY ATHLETES AND AN INVITATION TO THE COMMUNITY
With the support and generosity of a lead donor, SVSEF has proactively launched the SVSEF Journey to Gold Fund, offering a dollar-for-dollar match of community contributions up to $10,000. This reflects our wholehearted belief that community support should extend to the people and relationships that shape an athlete’s success—beginning early, remaining consistent, and carrying athletes through the most critical moments of their careers.
We invite our community to participate in supporting the SVSEF Journey to Gold Fund, helping ensure that our athletes across all disciplines carry the strength of Sun Valley with them as they compete at the 2026 Olympic Games and beyond!
Support the SVSEF Journey to Gold Fund through the Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation. Donations are tax-deductible. SVSEF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. EIN 82-0264946
To make a donation to the SVSEF Journey to Gold Fund:
- Click on the link below – this is a unique link to support the SVSEF Journey to Gold Fund.
- If you would like to give this gift in tribute, please specify in the fields provided.
- If you would like to send a message, please include in the Comments box.
Support SVSEF Journey to Gold Fund: https://tinyurl.com/svsefjourneytogoldfund
The Pastry Cup: Where Preparation Meets Powdered Sugar
Focus on fun, race-day prep define North Series tradition
If you’ve ever spotted a group of young racers nervously clicking into skis with one eye on the clock and the other on a box of pastries, you’ve likely stumbled upon the legendary Pastry Cup.
Since 2018, the Pastry Cup has been a staple of the SVSEF Alpine North Series team experience. The event was created by coaches Adele Savaria and Claudia Stern as a way to introduce young racers to the foundational elements of ski racing in a supportive, low-pressure environment. Originally held as a tune-up ahead of the first North Series race of the season, the Pastry Cup gave athletes a chance to practice race-day logistics, time management, and equipment preparation before results truly mattered.
Today, a Pastry Cup is held before every North Series race, giving athletes repeated opportunities to dial in their routines and arrive at competitions feeling prepared and confident having already had the chance to practice their pre-race routine. Each event mirrors race-day expectations while maintaining an emphasis on learning, preparation, and fun. After the race, all athletes enjoy a pastry or treat, with the top three finishers earning first, second, and third taking their choice of the baked goods.
More than a race, the Pastry Cup reflects the creativity and dedication of SVSEF’s coaching staff and the values that define the program as a whole. By prioritizing preparation, teamwork, and enjoyment alongside skill progression, the Pastry Cup helps athletes develop strong habits that carry forward throughout the season.
Photos: Above, podium finishers from the most recent Pastry Cup in 2026. Below, podium finishers from the original Pastry Cup held in 2018!
Pastry Cup # 1 Results – January 4, 2026
|
Bib # |
First |
Last |
Run 1 |
Run 2 |
Total Time |
|
Girls |
|||||
|
17 |
Alta |
Questad |
16.06 |
15.54 |
31.60 |
|
30 |
Kayla |
Kloster |
16.24 |
15.50 |
31.74 |
|
20 |
DMoney |
Spengler |
16.23 |
15.94 |
32.17 |
|
5 |
Rienza |
Buonchristiani |
16.61 |
16.08 |
32.69 |
|
7 |
Amelia |
Beck |
16.47 |
16.30 |
32.77 |
|
27 |
Marie |
McNeal |
16.50 |
16.42 |
32.92 |
|
26 |
Blakely |
Martens |
16.83 |
16.30 |
33.13 |
|
15 |
Estelle |
Turzian |
17.06 |
16.95 |
34.01 |
|
16 |
Tea |
Smither |
17.22 |
16.85 |
34.07 |
|
24 |
Chandler |
Letson |
17.72 |
17.18 |
34.90 |
|
35 |
DillPickle |
Meyer |
17.38 |
17.8 |
35.18 |
|
9 |
Eleanor H |
Hopeman |
17.98 |
17.33 |
35.31 |
|
11 |
Tindsley |
Glenne |
18.21 |
17.20 |
35.41 |
|
8 |
Ivy |
McNamara |
18.05 |
17.53 |
35.58 |
|
6 |
Maude |
Bates |
18.07 |
17.80 |
35.87 |
|
12 |
Mckenna |
Mccarthy |
17.91 |
18.03 |
35.94 |
|
13 |
Eleanor R |
Robinson |
18.75 |
17.56 |
36.31 |
|
22 |
Morgan |
Thomas |
18.57 |
18.39 |
36.96 |
|
31 |
Lexi |
Barthel |
18.44 |
18.70 |
37.14 |
|
28 |
Lila |
VanderWyst |
17.78 |
19.54 |
37.32 |
|
33 |
Rosie |
Hill |
18.91 |
18.52 |
37.43 |
|
25 |
Riley |
Copperman |
19.44 |
19.17 |
38.61 |
|
Boys |
|||||
|
34 |
Asa |
Sattler |
15.25 |
14.91 |
30.16 |
|
18 |
Walker |
Gove |
15.55 |
15.39 |
30.94 |
|
2 |
Evan |
McGregor |
16.40 |
15.60 |
32.00 |
|
29 |
Vance |
Gardiner |
16.20 |
15.98 |
32.18 |
|
36 |
Cole |
Martens |
16.74 |
16.53 |
33.27 |
|
19 |
Graham |
Lyle |
17.05 |
16.43 |
33.48 |
|
4 |
Keller |
Spachman |
16.90 |
16.80 |
33.70 |
|
32 |
DSmiley |
Smiley |
17.38 |
16.40 |
33.78 |
|
10 |
Tucker |
Thurston |
17.29 |
16.85 |
34.14 |
|
3 |
Dillon W |
Wells |
17.47 |
16.90 |
34.37 |
|
21 |
Tommy |
Banta |
17.47 |
17.25 |
34.72 |
|
1 |
Blaise |
Terra |
17.96 |
19.40 |
37.36 |
|
23 |
Jayden |
Orihuela |
19.07 |
19.21 |
38.28 |
|
14 |
AJ |
Tooley |
20.13 |
19.30 |
39.43 |
Snowmaker Classic Race Kicks off the Season in Support of SVSEF XC Program
2nd-Annual race at Lake Creek sees strong attendance and fun atmosphere
The Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation’s (SVSEF) Cross Country (XC) program hosted the 2026 Snowmaker Classic race to celebrate the start of the Nordic ski season with a community-wide race in support of SVSEF’s cross-country program.
The Snowmaker Classic is a fun and inclusive race for all ages and abilities and, alongside the Après Snowmaker Fundraiser, is dedicated to raising critical funds for the SVSEF XC program and the facilities that support it. Funds raised through the event directly sustain essential resources supporting more than 220 SVSEF XC athletes.
The classic technique race welcomed 74 competitors ranging in age from 6 to 78, who competed across four distances: 1 km, 2.5 km, 5 km, and 10 km. Athletes of all ages enjoyed ideal racing conditions on the recently opened Lake Creek Trails, making for a memorable early-season event.
“It was a gorgeous day and the perfect way for our community to kick off the XC ski season,” said SVSEF XC Assistant Program Director Kelley Yeates. “Events like the Snowmaker Classic highlight the strength of our local Nordic community and the shared excitement for another winter on snow.”
SVSEF extends its sincere thanks to all competitors, volunteers, supporters, and sponsors who made the event possible, with special appreciation to the Blaine County Recreation District (BCRD) for exceptional trail grooming.
Looking ahead, the SVSEF XC Team will travel to Utah for its first Junior National Qualifier of the season Jan. 21–24. The next SVSEF community Nordic event, the Town Sprints, will take place Feb. 4 in Ketchum.
For complete race results, click on the link: https://www.webscorer.com/race?raceid=417716
SVSEF Alpine U12 North Series Team Opens Season at Grand Targhee
Strong podium finishes and personal bests mark first race of the year
The Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation’s Alpine U12 North Series Team kicked off its 2026 race season Jan. 10–11 at Grand Targhee Resort, competing in the Grand Targhee North Series Qualifier. The two-day event featured two giant slalom (GS) races and marked the first North Series qualifier of the year, as well as the first-ever ski race for several SVSEF athletes.
“This was our first North Series qualifier of the year and the first ski race for several of our athletes,” said Claudia Stern, Head Coach of SVSEF’s Alpine U12 North Series Team. “Everyone showed up with purpose and drive ready to give it their best. We were lucky with some of the best race conditions we have had at this resort—cold temps, a firm surface, and clear skies. In between race runs, kids enjoyed themselves with some great powder skiing. Targhee delivered! We saw some great skiing with podiums for some and personal bests for a lot of our racers.”
Saturday’s GS saw excellent results from the SVSEF girls, led by Kayla Kloster’s second place finish, followed by Marie McNeal in fourth and Amelia Beck in sixth. The boys also raced very well, with Ford Rixon topping the podium with a first-place finish, Asa Sattler securing third, and Walker Gove finishing eighth.
Sunday’s GS races capped off a strong weekend for SVSEF North Series racers, as athletes throughout the field continued to build confidence and record personal best results with standout performances from both the girls and boys. The girls were led by Alta Questad’s second place finish, with Kloster in fourth and McNeal finishing fifth. For the boys, Asa Sattler delivered a commanding performance to claim first place, supported by strong top-ten finishes from Dylan Smiley in fifth and Gove securing eighth.
SVSEF Athlete Results
U12 Girls GS Jan. 10
2nd - Kayla Kloster
4th - Marie McNeal
6th - Amelia Beck
8th - Dylan Meyer
9th - Blakely Martens
11th - Sophie Robins
12th - Dylan Spengler
13th - Teodora Smither
14th - Rienza Buoncristiani
16th - Mckenna McCarthy
17th - Freya Moffat
22nd - Chandler Letson
24th - Lexi Barthel
25th - Stella Smith
27th - Ivy McNamara
29th - Eleanor Hopeman
32nd - Tindsley Glenne
36th - Lila Vanderwyst
39th - Payton Minor
40th - Maude Bates
41st - Blakeslee Tindall
42nd - Rosie Hill
45th - Riley Copperman
46th - Morgan Thomas
50th - Eleanor Robinson
67th - Rose Vanderwyst
U12 Boys GS Jan. 10
1st - Ford Rixon
3rd - Asa Sattler
8th - Walker Gove
12th - Dylan Smiley
14th - Evan McGregor
22nd - Keller Spachman
23rd - Tucker Thurston
25th - Graham Lyle
27th - Cole Martens
37th - Dillon Wells
39th - Tommy Banta
42nd - Nathan Sattler
44th - Samuel Sattler
47th - Anderson Tooley
60th - Jayden Orihuela
U12 Girls GS Jan. 11
2nd - Alta Questad
4th - Kayla Kloster
5th - Marie McNeal
8th - Dylan Meyer
9th - Sophie Robins
10th - Teodora Smither
12th - Mckenna McCarthy
15th - Rienza Buoncristiani
16th - Freya Moffat
17th - Ivy McNamara
18th - Estelle Turzian
19th - Chandler Letson
23rd - Tindsley Glenne
25th - Eleanor Hopeman
26th - Lexi Barthel
30th - Payton Minor
35th - Stella Smith
37th - Lila Vanderwyst
38th - Riley Copperman
39th - Maude Bates
43rd - Morgan Thomas
44th - Rosie Hill
46th - Blakeslee Tindall
65th - Rose Vanderwyst
U12 Boys GS Jan. 11
1st - Asa Sattler
5th - Dylan Smiley
8th - Walker Gove
9th - Vance Gardiner
15th - Evan McGregor
21nd - Cole Martens
29th - Tucker Thurston
33rd - Dillon Wells
36nd - Graham Lyle
38th - Nathan Sattler
39th - Samuel Sattler
40th - Blaise Terra
47th - Tommy Banta
49th - Anderson Tooley
For complete North Series race results, click on the following link and go to the "North Series" button: https://imdalpine.org/race-results/
Photo: Asa Sattler raced to the top step on Sunday's Boys GS Race
SVSEF Alpine U14 IMD Team Shines at Snow King Qualifier
With three podium finishes, Savannah Pringle races to overall race series title
The Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation’s Alpine U14 IMD Team traveled to Snow King in Jackson Hole, WY January 9-11 to compete in the Snow King Qualifier. The three-day event featured two slalom (SL) races and one giant slalom (GS) and served as an important qualifying opportunity within the Intermountain Division. Athletes found excellent snow conditions and a competitive field, delivering impressive performances across all three days of racing.
“Conditions were on point and it was a great race!” said Second Year Alpine U14 IMD Head Coach Angelica Birkner. “Our performance from our athletes was outstanding. This was an important qualifier, and the team showed confidence, focus, and determination from start to finish.”
The weekend opened with a slalom race on Friday, where SVSEF athletes dominated the women’s field with Savannah Pringle earning the win, followed closely by Mia Huey in second place. Brianna Smiley just missed the podium finishing fourth. In the men’s race, Alex Grant led the team with an 11th place finish.
The second slalom race on Saturday saw continued success, with both Huey and Pringle remarkably sharing the top step of the women’s podium in first! The men posted several solid results as well, led by Grant in sixth place.
The Snow King Qualifier concluded on Sunday with GS, where SVSEF athletes again secured multiple podium finishes. Grant finished the weekend on a strong note taking third place for the men in the GS. Huey and Pringle finished second and third respectively in the women’s race. Awards were presented to the top five men and women in the race series, with Savannah Pringle taking the women’s overall win.
SVSEF Athlete Results
U14 Women SL Jan. 9
1st - Savannah Pringle
2nd - Mia Huey
4th - Brianna Smiley
20th - Madlein Bakker
23rd - Halley McGrew
24th - Makenna Steel
30th - Stevie Crist
U14 Men SL Jan. 9
11th - Alex Grant
20th - Halsted Bruun
26th - Reid Wilke
32nd - Hunter Gove
U14 Women SL Jan. 10
1st - Mia Huey
1st - Savannah Pringle
6th - Brianna Smiley
20th - Makenna Steel
23rd - Halley McGrew
24th - Madlein Bakker
29th - Ava Gilmour
34th - Hope Finnegan Lloyd
U14 Men SL Jan. 10
6th - Alex Grant
9th - Theron Andra
12th - Brixen Ehleringer
15th - Cody Lloyd
17th - Halsten Bruun
19th - Charlie Spengler
34th - Chase Martens
U14 Women GS Jan. 11
2nd - Mia Huey
3rd - Savannah Pringle
13th - Madlein Bakker
19th - Halley McGrew
22nd - Hope Finnegan Lloyd
23rd - Ava Gilmour
25th - Jennings Fraser
30th - Stevie Crist
U14 Men GS Jan. 11
3rd - Alex Grant
22nd - Breclan McCarthy
27th - Cody Lloyd
29th - Charlie Spengler
35th - Brixen Ehleringer
For complete U14 IMD race results, click on the following link and go to the U14 Series button: https://imdalpine.org/race-results/
Photo: Savannah Pringle won the women's overall event title
SVSEF Alpine U16 and U14 IMD Teams Compete at Sean Nurse Open in Jackson Hole
SUN VALLEY, Idaho – The SVSEF Alpine U16 and U14 IMD teams traveled to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Dec. 20-23 to compete in the Sean Nurse Open, an open tech series featuring Slalom (SL) and Giant Slalom (GS) events. The series drew a strong field of competitors and served as an important qualifying opportunity for U16 athletes to earn their way to the Burke Mountain National Project.
Athletes faced demanding and variable snow conditions throughout the event, with soft snow creating deep ruts and testing technical abilities. Despite the challenges, the U14 IMD crew relied on their early season training to adapt to the conditions with these efforts illustrated by podium finishes, multiple top-10 results, and consistent skill progression.
“It was a rodeo,” said U14 Second Year Head Coach Angelica Birkner. “Conditions were quite tough with very soft snow, but our crew did a great job adjusting from day one, and finished the series with some strong results.”
Athletes also remarked on the challenging course conditions “The ruts were so big!” one athlete noted.
Competition opened with Slalom races on Dec. 20 and 21. On the men’s side, Colter Bengtson led the way with an impressive third-place finish on Dec. 20, followed by a sixth-place result the next day. The women’s team posted several solid performances, including top-10 finishes from Jasmine Smiley (7th) and Savannah Pringle (10th) on Dec. 21. The scheduled GS on Dec. 22 was canceled due to weather, while GS racing resumed on Dec. 23.
The Sean Nurse Open provided valuable experience in challenging conditions and high-level competition, while also playing a meaningful role in U16 athlete qualification pathways for the season ahead.
SVSEF Athlete Results
Women SL Dec. 20
11th - Mia Huey (U14 IMD)
34th - Iliana Little (U14 IMD)
35th - Stevie Crist (U14 IMD)
Men SL Dec. 20
3rd - Colter Bengtson (U16)
14th - Wyatt Limburg (U16)
25th - Alex Brown (U16)
32nd - Cameron Beck (U16)
Women SL Dec. 21
7th - Jasmine Smiley (U16)
10th - Savannah Pringle (U14 IMD)
14th - Mia Huey (U14 IMD)
18th - Alexandra Heidel (U16)
23rd - Piper Spengler (U16)
30th - Bianca Smith (U16)
32nd - Brianna Smiley (U14 IMD)
Men SL Dec. 21
6th - Colter Bengtson (U16)
17th - Jake Shlatter (U16)
23rd - Cameron Beck (U16)
32nd - Corbin Flood (U16)
GS 12/22: Canceled due to weather
Women GS Dec. 23
10th - Neena DeGennaro (U16)
19th - Jasmine Smiley (U16)
23rd - Alexandra Heidel (U16)
25th - Savannah Pringle (U14 IMD)
27th - Colette Duke (U16)
34th - Camille Reid (U16)
40th - Georgia Baxley (U16)
43rd - Gaia Luem (U16)
52nd - Sophie Kanowsky (U16)
55th - Nina Viesturs (U16)
64th - Iliana Little (U14 IMD)
66th - Stevie Crist (U14 IMD)
70th - Cece Connell (U16)
72nd - Bella Bren (U16)
Men GS Dec. 23
11th - Corbin Flood (U16)
16th - Cameron Beck (U16)
19th - Wyatt Limburg (U16)
22nd - Jack Schlatter (U16)
For complete Sean Nurse IMD Open race results, please visit https://imdalpine.org/race-results/ and click on “Open Series.”
Photo: Men's SL Race 12/20 - Colter Bengston U16, 3rd place
SVSEF Alpine FIS Team Travels to Western Region FIS Devo Open in Big Sky, MT
Ruby Smith and Elodie Olsen top U18 podiums among large, competitive fields
The Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation (SVSEF) FIS Alpine team opened their 2025–26 race season at the Western Region FIS Devo Open hosted at Big Sky Resort in Big Sky, MT, Dec. 15-18. The event featured two Giant Slalom (GS) races and one Slalom (SL) race and drew athletes from across the Western Region, including competitors from California, Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Montana, Idaho, and Utah, as well as several Division I collegiate athletes.
Each race consisted of exceptionally deep fields, with approximately 115 women and 125 men competing in each event. Despite the challenges, SVSEF athletes showed determination and good early-season form highlighted by multiple U18 podium finishes and solid results throughout the men’s and women’s teams.
“This week the athletes showed great confidence and grit,” said SVSEF FIS Team Assistant and Assistant Alpine Director Charlotte Gourlay. “Dedication to strength and conditioning and the prep period have helped the athletes start the season right.”
Athletes echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the value of racing in large, competitive fields. “It was a great experience in Big Sky,” said SVSEF FIS Team athlete Tucker Reimund. “It showed what it was like to run from the back and the persistence that you need to get down the hill and finish the race.”
On the women’s side, Ruby Smith led the way with an impressive third-place finish in the opening GS race on Dec. 15, earning first in the U18 category. She followed up with another strong performance on Dec. 16, placing ninth overall and second among U18 athletes. Elodie Olsen capped off the series with a standout second-place finish in the Slalom on Dec. 18, taking the top spot in the U18 category. The women’s team consistently placed multiple athletes inside the top 30 throughout the series.
The men’s team also posted solid results in the highly competitive fields. Henry Roberts recorded top-20 finishes in both GS races, including 19th and 15th overall (6th and 5th among U18 athletes). Tucker Reimund was top-placed in the men’s Slalom with a 22nd overall (5th in U18), gaining valuable experience to start the season.
SVSEF Athlete Results
FIS Men GS Dec. 15
19th- Henry Roberts (6th U18)
27th- Tucker Reimund (9th U18)
52nd- Huxley Flood
FIS Women GS Dec. 15
3rd- Ruby Smith (1st U18)
20th- Anna Taylor (5th U18)
24th- Ava Huey (8th U18)
28th- Elliot Leahy (11th U18)
38th- Lucy Olson
41st- Alyssa Huntsman
54th- Perri DeGennaro
58th- Violet Kovel
61st- Alaska Sewell
63rd- Camden Bakker
66th- Iyla Field
73rd- Malaya Yarmark
76th- Amilia Selznick
FIS Men GS Dec. 16
15th- Henry Roberts (5th U18)
FIS Women GS Dec. 16
9th- Ruby Smith (2nd U18)
15th- Samantha Milne (3rd U18)
21st- Ava Huey (5th U18)
27th- Anna Taylor (8th U18)
37th- Autumn Carpenter
43rd- Elliot Leahy
48th- Lucy Olson
57th- Perri DeGennaro
59th- Violet Kovel
60th- Alyssa Huntsman
75th- Alaska Sewell
88th- Amilia Selznick
FIS Men SL Dec. 18
22nd- Tucker Reimund (5th U18)
FIS Women Dec. 18
2nd- Elodie Olsen (1st U18)
10th- Samantha Milne (3rd U18)
18th- Autumn Carpenter
21st- Anna Taylor
30th- Elliot Leahy
38th- Lucy Olson
41st- Alyssa Huntsman
54th- Camden Bakker
59th- Iyla Field
66th- Amilia Selznick
For complete race results please click on the link below: https://www.fis-ski.com/DB/general/event-details.html?sectorcode=AL&eventid=59238&seasoncode=2026
Photo: Womens GS Race 12/16- Ruby Smith 2nd U18, Samantha Milne 3rd U18
Event on Jan. 10 supports SVSEF XC’s community-wide impact and programming
SVSEF Cross Country Program to Host Second Annual Après Snowmaker Fundraiser
The Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation’s Cross Country Program (SVSEF XC) is hosting its second annual Après Snowmaker Fundraiser on Saturday, Jan. 10 at the Sage School Barn in Hailey, Idaho. The event hopes to bring together the broader cross country skiing community in support of both SVSEF XC programs and the community-wide operations that also support the Lake Creek Trail System.
SVSEF XC is an integral part of the cross country skiing community—building and inspiring current and next generations of skiers, and bringing the local community together in a myriad of ways.
“As we step into an Olympic year, we are humbled by the support of this incredible community, which continues to encourage athletes of all ages as they pursue their cross-country skiing dreams,” said Becky Flynn, SVSEF XC Program Director. “Since 1972, the SVSEF Cross Country Program has been committed to shaping not only exceptional athletes, but a culture rooted in perseverance, joy, and connection. For our athletes, whether the journey leads to the 2026 Milano-Cortina Olympic and Paralympic Games or winds around the trails at Lake Creek or Quigley, it’s about far more than a single event—it’s about commitment, resilience, and the strength of a community that believes in them. This event supports dreams of world-class success and homegrown victories, all rolled into one.”
What truly sets SVSEF XC apart is its role in shaping the future by supporting and engaging the community through tangible opportunities such as:
- Inspiring our valley’s youth to participate and celebrate cross country skiing and the active lifestyle and lifelong sport it presents.
- Offering world class facilities that allow athletes to train at the highest levels.
- Grooming and maintaining the Lake Creek Trail system, in cooperation with BCRD.
- Hosting special events including FIS-sanctioned races that bring the world to Sun Valley, and celebratory gatherings to celebrate the sport, its history, and its traditions.
- Presenting guest lectures and instruction open to the broader community.
- Serving as a community land partner with the BLM, US Forest Service, and BCRD.
- Providing logistical and volunteer support for iconic events like the Boulder Mountain Tour.
Tickets are on sale now for the Après Snowmaker Fundraiser—a night to connect, celebrate, and give back to what makes cross country skiing in our valley so special. Participation supports the invaluable resources that sustain our sport and ensures that the cross country traditions we cherish continue to thrive for generations to come. This special event will honor the past, celebrate the present, and invest in the future of cross country skiing in Sun Valley.
Tickets to the event are $150.00 each and include heavy hors d’oeuvres, beer, and wine during the two-hour event, which will be held on Saturday, Jan. 10 from 5-7 p.m. at The Sage School Barn in Hailey. Tickets also include a free entry to the Snowmaker Classic Cross Country Ski Race, hosted by SVSEF XC earlier the same day at Lake Creek in Ketchum.
Raffle tickets are available online for $100.00 each through Friday, Jan. 9 at midnight. Winners will be drawn at 7 p.m. on Jan. 10 during the event for a Salomon Skis/Boots/Poles Package along with a Skida Hat set, or a Six-Month Membership to Zenergy Health Club & Spa. Winners need not be present to win.
The primary event sponsor is Ramsay Solutions, Inc. Supporting sponsors include Salomon, Skida, Zenergy, Idaho Mud, Elephant’s Perch, BCRD, and Sun Valley.
For more information and to buy event and/or raffle tickets, please visit SVSEF XC Après Snowmaker Fundraiser.
Tickets On Sale for 49th Annual Wild Game Dinner
49th Annual Wild Game Dinner Fuels Opportunity for Youth of the Wood River Valley
Wild game-inspired feast, locally curated raffle prizes, and adventurous live auction lots bring the community together in celebration of growing opportunities for youth skiing traditions.
Tickets are on sale for the SVSEF Wild Game Dinner. The event will take place on Friday, Dec. 5 at the Sun Valley Inn. All tickets to the event include access to the Pre-Game reception presented by Stoke Tracks to kick-off the evening's festivities, followed by a savory feast and live music from The Pisten Bullys.
“The Wild Game Dinner holds a special place in the heart of the ski club and for so many in our community,” said SVSEF Executive Director, Scott McGrew. “It’s a time to gather and share stories of impact and inspiration, while raising critical funds to ensure families up and down the valley participate and have access to the experiences we offer. Now entering our 60th year, we have much to celebrate and even more to build upon as we look to the future and how we can most positively impact our community in all that we do.”
The Wild Game Dinner directly supports SVSEF’s mission to provide exceptional snowsport programs, and specifically, the ability to grant more than $500,000 annually in financial aid to athletes across all ages and all programs. Funds are raised through the Wild Game Dinner via sponsorships, event and raffle ticket sales, a live auction, and a paddle raise.
“What we do is so much bigger than sport,” said McGrew. “Our job is to plant the seed of confidence and to nurture the potential in our children. The generosity we see through the Wild Game Dinner allows us to make sure any family who wants to participate can participate. Regardless of whether a child goes on to compete on the world stage, or pivots along the way, What matters is that they develop the courage, confidence, and humility to make an impact on the world. An impact that likely has nothing (and everything) to do with a perfect turn, landing a cork 9, or a classic stride.”
The popular Hunter’s Draw Raffle returns for the 2025 Wild Game Dinner! Exclusive prize packages will be up for grabs, each packed with a minimum $1,500 and up to $3,000 or more value in gift cards and experiences from local partners and businesses. A “Sun Valley Chic” package awards the winner with a shopping spree at various fashion and home retailers, while the “Savor the Valley” package provides the winner the opportunity to taste the best food in the valley. The First Lite Ultimate Layering Kit will keep you warm and cozy whether you're on the hunt or purely soaking up all that mountain living has to offer. Other prizes include an invigorating Zenergy Health Club Membership Prize Package, an adrenaline-filled “White Otter Outdoor Adventure” experience, with more prizes to be announced!
Following the excitement of the Pre-game and Hunter’s Draw Raffle and an exquisite meal defined by the season, the Wild Game Dinner Live Auction will have those with a love of travel, adventure, and culinary artistry ready to raise their paddles. A few of the Live Auction Previews can be found at: https://25svsefwildgamedinner.afrogs.org/#/pages/26947/
Absentee (proxy) bidding will be available for the live auction, and those interested in bidding remotely can register to do so at the event’s website and Live Auction Preview here: https://25svsefwildgamedinner.afrogs.org/#/pages/26947/
Tickets and tables are available for purchase online through the following link: https://25svsefwildgamedinner.afrogs.org/#/tickets/event
- Reserved Farm Table for Eight = $1,950
- Individual Ticket = $195
For event schedule and further details about this year's Wild Game Dinner, please visit this EVENT DETAILS page.
Local businesses interested in sponsoring the Wild Game Dinner or contributing via in-kind product or service opportunities to the event or the raffle can visit SVSEF.org, contact Heather Foster at [email protected] or Will Falltrick [email protected].
About the SVSEF Wild Game Dinner
For the past 48 years, friends, families, and community members have gathered each fall to celebrate SVSEF’s impact on the youth of the Wood River Valley, to imagine the possibilities for the season ahead, and to support SVSEF's Athlete Financial Aid Program through the Wild Game Dinner. Sponsors of the 2025 Wild Game Dinner include: Pre-Game Sponsor Stoke Tracks; Base Camp Sponsors Bigwood Golf and Idaho First Bank; and Whitetail Sponsor PK’s Ski & Sports. Wild Game Dinner Partners include: Chappellet Winery, Mountain Pride, and American Ostrich Farms.
SVSEF Alum and XC Gold Team Member John Steel Hagenbuch Breaks Baldy Hill Climb Course Record
Eighteen kids tackle the Baldy Hill Climb’s KinderClimb for cookies
Runners and hikers from 10-81 years old showed up for the 47th Annual Baldy Hill Climb on Saturday in support of SVSEF’s Cross Country Program to battle the 1.86 miles and 3,140 vertical feet up Warm Springs to the summit of Bald Mountain at 9,150 feet. An 11-year men’s record fell to the effort of SVSEF Alum, Gold Team member and member of the U.S. Cross Country Ski Team, John Steel Hagenbuch, finishing in a blistering time of 34:42.
“It was great to do the BHC for the first time in four years, and it unsurprisingly has not gotten any easier!” said Hagenbuch, New Baldy Hill Climb Record Holder. “It was a picture-perfect Sun Valley September day, and it was easy to push myself to the limit with such beautiful weather, an exceptionally well-run event, and such a fun atmosphere.”
Following tradition, the free-to-participate KinderClimb challenged kids under the age of 11 to tackle the lower section of Warm Springs before the start of the Baldy Hill Climb. The kiddos made their way up the steep 200-yard pitch where cookies were waiting, because ‘hiking for cookies is always a good idea!’ KinderClimb finishers also received a ribbon recognizing their strong achievement.
“Another beautiful Baldy Hill Climb in the books—241 competitors battled their way to the top,” said Kelley Yeates, Baldy Hill Climb Race Director and Assistant Director for the SVSEF Cross Country Program. “There is nothing quite like a September morning on top of Bald Mountain watching the Wood River Valley celebrate their love of ‘type 2 fun’. This year’s t-shirt captured the BHC perfectly with our 2025 tag line of “reliably uphill” and in our 47th year that’s exactly what it was!”
Thank you to all of the Baldy Hill Climb volunteers for their dedication and support to make the Baldy Hill Climb such a great experience for all participants. And to our sponsors and partners for their support: Sturtevants, Sun Valley Company, Proctor Mountain Group, Bigwood Golf, Atkinsons’ Market, Elephant’s Perch, Backwoods Mountain Sports, Salomon, Lizzy’s Fresh Coffee, Rossignol, Boulder Mountain Clayworks, Clear Creek Disposal, and the Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation. We couldn’t do it without our volunteers, sponsors, and partners helping to pull everything together for event day every last Saturday of September.
Notable Finishes
SVSEF Alum and Cross Country Gold Team member John Steel Hagenbuch breaks the course record with a time of 34:42. The previous record of 35:04 was set by Miles Havlick in 2014.
Top 5 Overall Men:
- Johnny Hagenbuch - SVSEF Cross Country Gold Team (34:42) (NEW MEN’S RECORD)
- Will Koch - SVSEF Cross Country Gold Team (36:07.6)
- Simon Zink (36:57.8)
- Peter Wolter - SVSEF Cross Country Gold Team (37:10)
- Elijah Weening - SVSEF Cross Country Gold Team (37:28.1)
Top 5 Overall Women:
- Annika Landis - SVSEF Alum (49:59.1)
- Mia Case - SVSEF Cross Country Gold Team (53:02.5)
- Lili Hansen (55:11.9)
- Helen Wilson (56:28.1)
- Alison Burpee (56:58.2)
Family Team Winner: “GJ’s Van”
Eric Stumpner, Lili Hansen, and Mac Hansen
2025 Baldy Hill Climb KinderClimb Participants - Age
Clayton Young - 7
Ginny Young - 3
August Martin - 2
Aspen Martin - 6
Ivy Simons - 4
Wren Simons - 9
Wylder Wilson - 3
Ellie Yeates - 5
Finn Mallory - 7
Ava Boeger - 7
Wyatt Boeger - 5
Mae Boeger - 3
Blakeslee Tindall - 10
Gus Hopeman - 4
Davey Harlow - 3
Thomas - 2
Geri - 2
Cherie - 4
For complete event results, please visit: https://zone4.ca/event/2025/QY1YDL/