The Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York City sparkled with star power and philanthropy Thursday night as U.S. Ski & Snowboard’s 59th Annual Gold Medal Gala set a historic fundraising record, amassing an unprecedented $3.2 million to support the organization’s athletes and programs. Presented by J. Crew, the event drew luminaries, sponsors, and supporters united in their mission to empower the next generation of American skiers and snowboarders as the 2025-26 FIS Alpine World Cup season opens this weekend in Sölden, Austria.
The gala, a cornerstone of U.S. Ski & Snowboard’s annual calendar, celebrated the organization’s legacy while fueling its future. Funds raised through table purchases, a lively auction emceed by Harry Santa-Olalla, and a spirited paddle raise will directly support athlete training, coaching, and development programs critical to maintaining Team USA’s competitive edge on the global stage. The $3.2 million haul marks a new high for the event, reflecting growing momentum for winter sports ahead of the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics.
A highlight of the evening was an inspiring on-stage panel featuring Olympic gold medalist Lindsey Vonn and rising star Lauren Macuga. The duo captivated attendees with a candid discussion on mentorship, resilience, and the evolving landscape of alpine skiing. Macuga, a young downhill talent, shared how Vonn’s trailblazing career inspired her own journey, calling their shared stage a “full-circle moment.” Vonn, who made a triumphant return to the Stifel U.S. Ski Team this season at age 40, emphasized the importance of giving back to the sport that shaped her legacy. “Seeing the next generation rise is what keeps me going,” Vonn said, drawing applause from the crowd.
The event also honored the achievements of U.S. Ski & Snowboard athletes, with Vonn’s presence underscoring the team’s depth of talent. The Minnesota native, who holds 82 World Cup victories and three Olympic medals, including gold in downhill at Vancouver 2010, has defied expectations with her 2024-25 comeback season. Notable performances include a sixth-place finish in downhill at St. Anton and a super-G podium at Sun Valley, her first in over seven years. Her selection to the 2025 World Championships team, where she placed 15th in downhill despite illness, signals her readiness for the Olympic stage.
Beyond the financial triumph, the gala radiated unity and optimism. Attendees, including corporate partners and fans, mingled with athletes in a dazzling setting adorned with nods to alpine and snowboarding heritage. Vonn, radiant in a black gown, shared glimpses of the evening on Instagram, captioning her post, “A great night with the US Ski Team,” accompanied by ski and heart emojis. The sentiment echoed the collective energy of an organization poised for success.
As the World Cup season launches, the record-breaking funds will bolster athletes like Macuga, who aims to follow in Vonn’s footsteps, and veterans like Mikaela Shiffrin, whose 97 World Cup wins continue to redefine the sport. U.S. Ski & Snowboard President and CEO Sophie Goldschmidt hailed the evening as a testament to the community’s commitment. “This historic night fuels our athletes’ dreams and ensures they have the resources to compete at the highest level,” she said.
With the 2026 Olympics on the horizon, the 59th Annual Gold Medal Gala not only celebrated past triumphs but also laid the foundation for future victories. As Team USA takes to the slopes in Sölden, the $3.2 million raised will serve as both a financial and symbolic boost, propelling American skiers and snowboarders toward greatness.
