New foundation to support legacy of snow sports at iconic Minnesota ski area

By Published On: August 11th, 2017Comments Off on New foundation to support legacy of snow sports at iconic Minnesota ski area

Longtime home to winter sports in Minnesota, the Buck Hill Ski Area has found a new ally to support, foster and perpetuate active outdoor lifestyles in the Minneapolis area. The ski area is home to a renowned alpine ski racing program under longtime program director and U.S. Ski Hall of Fame inductee Erich Sailer. The newly formed Buck Hill Foundation aims to provide opportunities to aspiring outdoor sports athletes, to promote a lifelong love for sport via active outdoor lifestyles, as well as support programs to develop strong personal character. The initial focus of the foundation will include support to alpine programs such as the Buck Hill Ski Racing Team.

“The Buck Hill Foundation’s purpose includes charitable and educational efforts in support of youth and athlete development, particularly in alpine snow sports, and to promote positive character development and sportsmanship as a basis for individual growth,” said Doug Nordmeyer, president of the Buck Hill Foundation. “We believe that sound values learned through sport contribute to goal setting, self-discipline, commitment and success in all of life’s endeavors.”

Financial demands of alpine snow sports often pose a barrier for entry and continued involvement. As such, the foundation will target a racing program that has produced numerous Olympians, collegiate champions, and junior champions.  The ski area is home to thousands of alpine racers including notables such as Lindsey Vonn, Kristina Koznick, Tasha Nelson, Paula Moltzan, Michael Ankeny, Cory Carlson, Lori Greeley, Susan Holes, Mike Meleski, Biere Marceau, Joe Levins, Tim Hanson, Martina Sailer, and Sterling Grant, all of whom were, or are, on the U.S. Ski Team. The success of the program over the years is due in large part to the efforts of Erich Sailer. This success was further validated in 2008 with Buck Hill being recognized as the Ski Team of the Year by U.S. Ski & Snowboard.

The foundation recently announced its inaugural event to occur on Aug. 25 to honor longtime coach Erich Sailer.  The evening will include a social hour, dinner, and a special recognition for Sailer. Having coached more than 25,000 young ski racers throughout his illustrious career at Buck Hill, and as director of the Erich Sailer Ski Racing Camps, the event will acknowledge one of the great ambassadors in the history of U.S. skiing.

Special guest, Buck Hill Alumnae and Olympic Gold medalist Lindsey Vonn will attend, discuss her storied career and recognize Sailer. Supporters can reserve tickets or make a tax deductible donation to the Buck Hill Foundation on the event website.

Release courtesy of Buck Hill Foundation

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