The First U.S. Ski Mountaineering World Cup: A Historic Event for Olympic Aspirations

Key Takeaways

• The December 6-7, 2025 event at Solitude Mountain Resort is the first ISMF Ski Mountaineering World Cup in the United States.
• It offers athletes a final chance to secure Olympic qualifying spots before ski mountaineering makes its debut at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games.
• The YES Brands logo will adorn Team USA jerseys during the competition, reflecting their commitment to youth sports.
• Michael Paulus, USA Skimo vice president, is linked to YES Brands through his family office, PCM Growth.
• Youth and collegiate participation in ski mountaineering is on the rise ahead of the sport’s Olympic debut.

Setting the Stage at Solitude Mountain Resort

On December 6-7, 2025, the International Ski Mountaineering Federation (ISMF) will host a groundbreaking event at Solitude Mountain Resort in Utah—the first Ski Mountaineering World Cup to be held in the United States. This two-day competition not only marks a significant milestone for ski mountaineering in the U.S. but also serves as the last opportunity for athletes to qualify for the sport’s Olympic debut at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games.

This event aligns perfectly with the growing interest in ski mountaineering, as athletes vie for coveted spots on their nation’s Olympic teams.

Sponsorship for Team USA

In an exciting development, YES Brands, a youth enrichment sports platform, has announced its sponsorship of Team USA for this remarkable event. Athletes representing the U.S. will wear jerseys featuring the YES Brands logo, which symbolizes the organization’s commitment to youth development and sports excellence.

Chris Chang, CEO of YES Brands, remarked, “Ski mountaineering’s inclusion in the Olympics is a testament to the dedication and skill of these athletes. We’re proud to support Team USA and help inspire our nation’s youth to pursue excellence in sport and in life.”

Incorporating sponsorship into high-profile events like this not only raises the visibility of ski mountaineering but also cultivates a sense of national pride among young athletes.

A Link Between Leadership and Youth Development

The partnership between USA Skimo and YES Brands showcases a broader commitment to fostering talent in the sport. Michael Paulus, the vice president of USA Skimo, plays a crucial role in this endeavor. His family office, PCM Growth, provides vital financial backing for YES Brands, highlighting a shared mission of growing the sport domestically.

Under Paulus’s leadership, USA Skimo has been dedicated to developing Olympic pathways for U.S. athletes, organizing international events, and promoting youth participation. This upcoming World Cup serves as a testament to those efforts, aiming to elevate the sport’s profile in the context of its Olympic journey.

Emerging Opportunities for Young Athletes

Ski mountaineering, or skimo, is a unique sport that combines uphill skiing with downhill racing. Its inclusion in the Olympics has sparked enthusiasm among young athletes across the country. As interest in this dynamic sport grows, organizations like YES Brands are keen to harness this momentum to create more opportunities at the grassroots level.

“By supporting Team USA’s journey, YES Brands is investing in the future, empowering a generation to reach new heights,” noted Chang. Founded by parents with backgrounds in consumer business development, YES Brands is focused on creating long-term partnerships with youth sports operators to nurture the next generation of athletes.

Final Thoughts on a Future in Ski Mountaineering

The upcoming Ski Mountaineering World Cup represents a unique moment in sports history, not just for competitive athletes but also for young enthusiasts eager to explore the thrilling world of skiing. With the backing of influential organizations and an eye toward the Olympic horizon, ski mountaineering is poised to carve out its place in the American sports landscape.

As the event approaches, the excitement is palpable. Families, fans, and budding athletes alike will be looking on, eager to witness this pioneering step forward for a sport that is rich with potential and challenge.

Stay connected with developments in youth sports, including events like the first-ever U.S. Ski Mountaineering World Cup, as we continue to follow the journey of athletes and organizations committed to excellence in sports.