Competitor & Pioneer
Betty Woolsey was no stranger to firsts. Woolsey was a member of the first-ever Women's US Ski Team in 1935. She was also on the first Women's US Olympic team in 1936, when alpine skiing debuted at the Winter Games in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany. Woolsey, the top female American in downhill, was captain of the women's Olympic team through 1940. During World War II, Woolsey headed west to compete and train in Sun Valley, Idaho. In 1943, she purchased Trail Creek Ranch at the base of Teton Pass and permanently moved to Jackson Hole. Woolsey spent summers hosting guests at her ranch, leading horseback rides and pack trips. During winter and spring, she focused on skiing. In the early sixties, Woolsey was approached for permission for JHSC athletes to cross-country ski on the ranch. Thanks to Woolsey's generous support, local young athletes have had the privilege of training at Trail Creek Ranch for over 50 years.
