Since 1934 Mt. Mansfield's Nosedive trail, with its snaking narrow turns and an elevation drop of 2,080 has become the stuff of legend, testing the abilities of racers and recreational skiers alike. Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum's Red Bench Speaker Series will dive into the history and people behind the design and building of the trail. With historical anecdotes, maps, and lots of photos, VTSSM Curator, Meredith Scott will facilitate a discussion with Mike Leach, Mt. Mansfield Ski Club historian, and Brian Lindner, Stowe Mountain Resort historian. Learn how this famed trail contributed to earning Stowe the nickname of the "Ski Capital of the East" by luring weekend warriors and international competitors. The American International Races held on the Nose Dive in 1952, 1955, 1957, and 1960 brought some of the best known European racers – Jean-Claude Killy, Toni Sailer, Othmar Schneider, and Andreas Molterer plus U.S. Ski Team members Marvin Moriarty, Andrea Mead Lawrence, Billy Kidd, Buddy Werner, and others.

The discussion will explore how Stowe's development compared to other ski areas with Robin Morning, Ski Olympian, historian, and author joining in to add the parallel story of Mammoth Mountain's rise in popularity and fame. VT Olympian Rosie Fortna, VTSSM of Fame member and Morning's teammate, will join us to talk about training in VT and Mammoth in the '60s. The stories of Stowe and Mammoth share strong personalities with visions for creating world-class resorts with a focus on racing, terrain suited to interesting and varied trails, and youth training programs.

Reserve your FREE ticket here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_UmUPppEySIShg36uStfbJA.
Donations always greatly appreciated!

Nov 20, 2024, 12 to 12:30 PM

Nov 25, 2024, 5:45 to 6:15 PM

Nov 27, 2024, 10 to 11 AM