Lee Johnson: The 32nd Annual Steve Young Ski Classic

What a great time I had the other day! For those of you who have never had an opportunity to participate in the Wasatch Adaptive Sports Steve Young Ski Classic, you need to make sure and put it on your calendar for next year! This year was WAS’s 41st anniversary and it has been heartwarming to be a part of this program for the last 32 years. It amazes me to see the number of lives that have been changed over the time of my participation. The loving heart of Peter Mandler, who started this program many years ago has left an incredible legacy for the new outstanding team.

Wasatch Adaptive Sports’ mission is to provide equipment and instruction for those who have adaptive needs. Saturday once again did not disappoint.  In the morning, 50 WAS students had the opportunity to race against former NFL athletes, Olympians, and of course the great Steve Young – it was almost sensory overload!  I had the privilege of serving as race announcer this year and it was so amazing to watch the faces of the WAS students as they came down the hill, leaving all of the professional athletes in their dust.  The high spirits from Chickadee were carried over to the medal ceremony on the Plaza Deck where each student was recognized for their incredible achievements

The event then transitioned to the evening where over 400 supporters gathered in support of WAS and their students. People were welcomed to the most phenomenal silent auction. With all the people that attended, the energy in the room was electric, as they were all united in their efforts to fund this great program. After the silent auction we were welcomed with a five star buffet to kick off the program. The dinner ended and Steve Young welcomed guests, and introduced all those that make this program a success. The highlight of the evening was getting to hear the stories of all those who participate in the program and how it has changed their life. Another highlight of the evening was the live auction. If anyone ever wanted to fly on an F16 or spend a week in Lake Powell on a luxury houseboat this was your chance. Once again, the crew at Wasatch Adaptive Sports has put on a charity benefit that warms the heart and makes you want to be a part of this great program.

I can’t wait for next year!

Lee Johnson