U.S. Alpine Ski Team Fundraiser Reaches New Record High

Before a weekend full of racing across Europe, the Land Rover U.S. Alpine Ski Team gathered virtually with hosts and U.S. Ski Team alumni Daron Rahlves and A.J. Kitt for their annual fundraiser, raising a record-breaking number of over $330,000.

Every year, athletes use this fundraiser as a means to help offset travel and training costs. Unfortunately, this year there was no in-person gathering at Yama sushi in Vail, Colo. hosted by generous U.S. Ski Team supporters, the Viola Family, but instead, a virtual event hosted through Facebook Live. Although the annual gathering at Yama Sushi was missed, going virtual had its benefits as alpine supporters from across the globe had the opportunity to join us for this event. 

Rahlves and Kitt started off the event by talking about what support meant during their careers and then they were joined by a few members of the men’s team, including Ryan Cochran-Siegle, Sam Morse, Bryce Bennett, and Jared Goldberg, and the women’s team, featuring Breezy Johnson, Jackie Wiles, and Isabella Wright. Each athlete shared how they were feeling about their upcoming races and how donor support has fueled their ability to focus on their training rather than being overwhelmed, worrying about fundraising. 

Those who watched were encouraged to give a donation, while those who were unable to virtually attend had the option to donate online and/or bid on unique auction items, including double Olympic champion and five-time World Champion Mikaela Shiffrin's own personal Atomic helmet, as well as one of her former race bibs. Through donations and the silent auction, the Team had a record year, raising over $330,000.00! These gifts have a direct impact on our mission of supporting athletes in achieving excellence and becoming Best in the World. 

The Land Rover U.S. Alpine Ski Team is now gearing up for an exciting weekend of racing with the men’s team competing in Chamonix, France, and the women in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany. If you missed the virtual event click here to watch!  

The U.S. Ski & Snowboard Foundation is the non-profit fundraising arm of U.S. Ski & Snowboard. To support our athletes on their quest to become the Best in the World, please click the donation link below.