When The Wax Ran Right: History of the Johnson State Ski Team, 1966-1974

Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum’s Red Bench Speaker Series will kick off Thursday, October 29th at 6:30 p.m. with Bill Farrell, a former Johnson State College Ski Team member, who will share his recollections of the JSC alpine racing program from its inception in 1966 through 1974, years when Dr. Walter Minartet and Erle Morse created what was often referred to as a “dynasty.” His presentation will include newly digitized 8mm film and photographs from his time on the team.

Farrell will recall a period when the team was financially well supported and produced World Cup-level skiers who, “when the wax ran right,” were winning national titles and World Cup medals. It was an era when a revolution in ski technology rapidly advanced from wooden skis, leather boots, and wool sweaters to fiberglass, plastics, and skin suits. A tragic death of a ski team member, a car accident, and the disparity between the support given to the men’s and women’s teams created rifts within the school administration and affected team members.

While insulated and committed to ski racing, the team could not avoid the effects of the Vietnam War, Kent State, Watergate, socioeconomic disparity within the student body, the lowering of the drinking age to 18, and more. Through it all, many ski team members went on to become successful competitors, coaches, and educators and to have an impact on the ski industry in Vermont and beyond.

Farrell will cover these topics with insight and humor. The event will conclude with a Q&A session.

Doors to the Museum at 1 S. Main St. Stowe will open at 6:00 PM for guests to enjoy the exhibits and socialize before the discussion begins at 6:30 PM. A $10 admission donation helps support the museum's mission to "Collect, Preserve and Celebrate Vermont's rich skiing and snowboarding history."