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Local ski pro still skis after almost losing his life
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Pro Skier: Tom Riford
Most advanced skiers will agree that the awesome thrill skiing gives us is worth the risk. We would argue that it is better to have skied and crash than to never have skied at all.
One local pro skier, Tom Riford, has a wonderful testimony to prove this point. In 1994 he set the record for the most vertical feet skied in four hours.
On March 3, 1995 he entered the race again to break this record. At about 50 mph he lost a ski causing him to lose control and crash into a post. He went through a fence and down into a creek bed. Ski patrol acted fast and probably saved his life.
Tom was in critical condition for a while, lost a lot of blood, and spent two weeks in ICU. Eleven bones were broken, eight ribs, and his shoulder blade. He had a collapsed lung, sliced liver, crushed gall bladder, and other internal injuries.
After all that Tom did not lose his desire to ski! It did take him a couple of years, but he began in soft telemark boots. Another great local ski pro, Mac Jackson, brought Tom out of retirement. To any beginner skiers who have gotten hurt and given up the sport, take note that you might be missing something.
Tom is back to working as a ski instructor part-time and raced at the PSIA Spring Rally in 2009; his first time in gates since 1995.
This inspiring story is a great encouragement for skiers of all levels to keep on skiing! Tom still says “I am very glad that skiing, ski racing, and ski teaching were a part of my life.” Safety is important to always keep in mind, but dwelling on the risks involved takes away what gives life.
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