Industry News
To support Robb Gaffney, the renowned skier, filmmaker, and author of the groundbreaking ski guide ‘Squallywood- A Guide To Squaw Valley’s Most Exposed Lines,’ his brother, Scott Gaffney, is auctioning two original copies of the sold-out book. Robb Gaffney, an iconic figure in the Lake Tahoe skiing community, is currently battling acute myeloid leukemia.
“Robb is a genius, one of the smoothest, most gorgeous freeskiers I have ever had the pleasure of watching.”
– Miles Clark, SnowBrains Founder & CEO
The book, which has been out of print for over a decade, offers an unparalleled guide to the most challenging terrains of what is now known as Palisades Tahoe. The book was inspired by the adventures of legendary professional skier Shane McConkey, who was closely followed by Robb Gaffney at Palisades Tahoe. It offers insight into skiing terrains and introduces the rules for G.N.A.R., a skiing competition where participants earn points through challenging feats. A copy of the book is currently for sale on Amazon for $2,911.11.
“Squallywood: A Guide to Squaw Valley’s Most Exposed Lines” is a revered skiing guidebook written by Robb Gaffney, M.D. Delving into the challenging ski lines at what’s now Palisades Tahoe in California, the book stands apart by melding detailed line descriptions with local anecdotes and ratings based on difficulty. A standout feature is the introduction of G.N.A.R. (Gaffney’s Numerical Assessment of Radness), a point-based game where skiers tackle specific lines and challenges. While Gaffney’s book has achieved cult status in the ski community, making it a rare find, its essence captures the vibrant ski culture and spirit of the region.”
- Related: GNAR: The Legacy of Shane McConkey
According to Scott Gaffney’s Instagram post dated August 7, the two available copies, donated by an 84-year-old friend of Robb, are signed and in used but great condition. These will be auctioned separately to the highest bidders, ensuring a single individual does not acquire both. All proceedings from the auction will be directly funneled to support Robb Gaffney and his family during this challenging time. Bids can be made publicly on Scott Gaffney’s profile or sent privately.
Robb’s leukemia battle has spanned over four years. Over the past two years, Robb underwent two bone marrow stem-cell transplants and monthly treatments, believing his acute myeloid leukemia was largely under control due to clean blood tests. Despite initial imaging suggesting a healthy back after a lifetime of physical activity, his increasing pain revealed that the leukemia was infiltrating various bones, particularly his left pelvis. In late 2022, feeling his condition had stabilized, Robb reactivated his medical license to resume his psychiatry practice. However, the recent cancer developments have disrupted his plans.
While the Gaffney family was initially reluctant to seek financial assistance, Lou McGee, a close acquaintance of Robb’s spouse, established a GoFundMe campaign to provide aid.
Scott Gaffney encouraged potential donors, “Either post your offers here or—if you wish to maintain anonymity—reach out directly via direct message. Leading offers will be updated daily. The auction concludes at noon PST on August 21.”
For those looking to support Robb Gaffney, consider bidding on these rare ‘Squallywood’ copies or contributing directly to his GoFundMe page.
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