Name/Title
Print, PhotographicEntry/Object ID
1922Description
Racers speed down the slopes of Mount Rainier in the Silver Skis Race in this black-and-white photo taken back in 1934. It was the first year of the race. Sixty skiers entered this race that began at Camp Muir at 10,000 feet and finished at Paradise at 5,400 feet. Skiers would reach speeds of 60 mph. In 1940, the Silver Skis race was marred by a tragic accident. In icy and foggy weather, a Norwegian immigrant who was considered to be one of the best downhill racers entered veered off course a half mile into the race and struck rocks and died. Paul Gilbreath won the race that year and Tony Matt came in second place, just two seconds behind Gilbreath. In 1947, Don Fraser again won the race, but the turnout was down as only 20 men competed, down from 60-plus in previous years. In the final year of the race in 1948, the Silver Skis race was postponed three times because of weather before it finally happened on May 9.Lexicon
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Skiing, Skiing, snow, RecreationalRelationships
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Person or Organization
Silver SkiPerson or Organization
Mt. RainierPerson or Organization
Gilbreath, PaulPerson or Organization
Matt, TonyPerson or Organization
Fraser, Don