Skiing superstars and local legends are coming together for an inspiring night of raw stories, mental health advocacy, and community spirit.
Olympic gold medalist Mikaela Shiffrin and fellow 2026 gold medal winner Liz Lemley will lead an athlete panel discussion titled “Local Legends: Edge of Resilience” on Tuesday, May 19, at 5 p.m. in the lobby of The Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa in Avon.
The free event, open to the public, will dive into the athletes’ unforgettable journeys at the 2026 Winter Olympics — from high-pressure triumphs to the mental battles behind the glory. Joining Shiffrin and Lemley are Paralympians Meg Gustafson (top-five giant slalom finish) and her guide Spenser Gustafson, both representing Ski & Snowboard Club Vail and Team USA.
Organized in partnership with SpeakUp ReachOut, Howard Head Sports Medicine, and Healthspan, the panel aims to spark honest conversations about resilience, mental health, and the power of community support.
Attendees can also participate in a community raffle with all proceeds benefiting SpeakUp ReachOut, a local nonprofit focused on suicide prevention through education and training. The Westin is currently in a year-long H.O.P.E. certification program dedicated to mental health and addiction recovery best practices.
Athlete highlights:
Mikaela Shiffrin: 2026 Olympic gold in women’s slalom and 2026 World Cup overall champion.
Liz Lemley: 2026 gold in women’s individual moguls and bronze in dual moguls.
Meg & Spenser Gustafson: Standout Paralympic performances representing the Vail Valley.
The evening will feature drinks and snacks available for purchase from The Westin’s Lobby Bar and Gondola Market + Café. Shiffrin and Lemley are also ambassadors for the resort’s Athletic Club, where they train alongside other elite athletes.
For more details, visit westinriverfront.com.
This is a rare chance to hear directly from Vail Valley’s biggest stars about what it really takes to compete — and thrive — at the highest level. Don’t miss it.
