Industry News
Charles Thompson “Chuck” Ferries III, a pioneering figure in American ski racing, passed away on April 17, 2025, in Ketchum, Idaho, at the age of 85. The US Ski & Snowboard Hall of Fame reports that, born in Houghton, Michigan, in 1939, Ferries began skiing at age four on Mt. Ripley, a modest 440-foot hill operated by Michigan Technological University. Under the mentorship of ski coach Fred Lonsdorf, he quickly excelled, winning his first slalom at age 10 and dominating regional competitions.
Seeking greater challenges, Ferries moved to Aspen, Colorado, for his final year of high school, immersing himself in competitive skiing. His dedication led to a scholarship at the University of Denver, where he studied business and trained under renowned coach Willy Schaeffler.
Ferries’ competitive achievements include:
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Three-time U.S. National Slalom Champion (1958, among others)
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Member of the U.S. Olympic Team in 1960 (Squaw Valley) and 1964 (Innsbruck)
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First American man to win the Hahnenkamm slalom in Kitzbühel, Austria, in 1962
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Cover feature on Sports Illustrated in March 1963, titled “Best U.S. Skier”
After retiring from competition, Ferries transitioned into coaching and business. He coached the U.S. Women’s Ski Team through the 1968 Olympics and played a pivotal role in developing ski equipment. As president of K2, he expanded the company’s ski sales significantly. Later, he acquired SCOTT USA, revitalizing the brand and introducing innovations like mountain bikes and ski goggles.
Ferries also served as chairman of the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association from 2002 to 2006, contributing to the growth and recognition of the sport in the United States. Inducted into the U.S. National Ski Hall of Fame in 1989, Ferries’ legacy endures as a testament to his contributions to skiing both on and off the slopes. He is survived by his wife, Nancy, and their children.
