Mike Hammer’s long-standing support of the Jackson Hole Ski & Snowboard Club began in the early 1980s: four decades later, athletes still approach Mike to share fond memories of his encouragement at an alpine race start. When a business opportunity in 1979 brought him to Jackson Hole, Mike’s interest in skiing led him to the Jackson Hole Ski Club. Mike took on the role of Alpine starter and, soon after, a seat on the Board of Directors. For over twenty years and hundreds of races, Mike was at the start, and his role as a starter evolved into various certified alpine official roles in the Intermountain West: Head of the Alpine Officials Committee for IMD, Certified Technical Delegate for USSA, and President of IMD in 2007. He also twice served one-year terms as interim JHSC Executive Director. Amidst all the administrative work, Mike was also a JHSC Masters program participant. The tone Mike set—his focus on joy, laughter, hard work, and care for racers and staff alike—continues to drive the culture of the JHSC today. (Photo credit: Jonathan Selkowitz)
