Summit County Shines in Upcoming Ski Mountaineering Season
Image Credit: International Ski Mountaineering Federation/Courtesy photo
On Thursday, October 2, the U.S. Ski Mountaineering Association (USA Skimo) unveiled its roster for the 2025-26 winter season, spotlighting an exciting lineup of talented athletes. Among these athletes, impressive local representation from Summit County makes this announcement particularly noteworthy.
Rising Stars from Summit County
A remarkable one-third of the women’s senior B team is composed of Summit County athletes, showcasing the area’s strong skiing heritage. Breckenridge’s Brooke Haynes stands out as a key competitor, joined by Gwen Rudy from Leadville and Kelly Wolf from Ophir. Their selections reflect rigorous training and unwavering dedication to the sport.
In the men’s senior B team, two Summit County athletes have earned their spots: Frisco’s Arthur Whitehead and Breckenridge’s John Rauen. These young men bring both skill and local pride to the national stage, promising to make strides in the upcoming competitions.
The Next Generation of Athletes
The women’s senior D team will feature Grace Staberg, an athlete representing Summit County as the sole representative on the squad. Grace’s journey, coupled with her tenacity, sets her up as a compelling figure in this burgeoning sport.
For the junior D team, Summit High School students Ashley Adkins and Finn Brown will proudly don their team colors. This youth representation not only indicates a healthy future for ski mountaineering in the region but also the commitment of local institutions to fostering young talent.
Coaching Staff
The U.S. Ski Mountaineering team will be led by head coach Oscar Angeloni, with Milan Kubala taking on the role of assistant coach. This experienced duo will play a pivotal role in shaping the athletes’ training regimens, strategies, and overall performance as they prepare for the competitive season ahead.
Upcoming Competitions
The upcoming season kicks off with an exciting weekend in Solitude, Utah, scheduled for December 6-7. This event will be particularly significant as athletes vie for the last quota spots for the 2026 Winter Olympics. It will serve as a critical testing ground where each athlete will be pushed to their limits, highlighting both individual prowess and team dynamics.
Olympic Aspirations
As we gear up for an Olympic year, the urgency of qualifying athletes for the winter games intensifies. As of now, the U.S. has not qualified any participant for the 2026 Winter Olympics. However, analysts suggest that the best chance lies in the mixed relay events. Given the unique challenges and competitive landscape of the qualifying rounds, every race will count more than ever.
What to Expect at the Olympics
Ski mountaineering is set to make its thrilling debut at the 2026 Winter Olympics, introducing exciting formats such as men’s and women’s sprint races alongside mixed relay competitions. As the world watches, ski mountaineering’s entrance into the Olympic arena will underscore the sport’s growing popularity and the dedication of athletes who have worked diligently to reach this pinnacle.
Through this exciting blend of talent, energy, and ambition, Summit County continues to position itself as a powerhouse in the ski mountaineering community, shaping the future of the sport both locally and nationally. With such promising athletes on the horizon, the upcoming season is sure to captivate fans and inspire new generations of mountaineers.