Industry News
Last year, SnowBrains reported on the incredible story of Tom Hart, also known as “Racer Tom,” who set the world record for most vertical feet skied in a year when he logged 8,513,340 vertical feet. The record was certified by the Guinness World Records after Hart meticulously met all the requirements to prove his accomplishment.
Now, during the 2024-25 season, Hart, 64, has outdone himself. He is on track to blow past the record he set last year and projects he will log 10 million vertical feet by the end of the year.
“I felt like I left some on the table last year,” Hart told SnowBrains when asked why he wanted to do it again after setting the record last year. “I have big vertical in my blood.”
The back-to-back records come from the first two years of Hart’s retirement. He has lived in Utah for 29 years after moving from Minnesota when he was 35. A typical day for Hart involves averaging 57,000 vertical per day, by getting to Snowbasin Resort, Utah, an hour and a half before the lifts open to get in line. He typically waits in line with a group known as the “First in Liners,” which can be as many as 40 people. “We just tell lies until they open at 9,” Hart laughed. “I carry two hard-boiled eggs with me and a peanut butter and honey sandwich. I usually take a break every two to two and a half hours to go into the lodge to get water.”
Since Snowbasin has closed for the season, Hart has shifted his ski days to nearby Snowbird, and when Snowbird changes operations to weekends only, he already has a plan in place. “I’m really looking to get 10 million by the end of May,” Hart said. “I plan to go to Mammoth, and I can get really good vertical there.”
The nickname “Racer Tom” came about 20 years ago when there was another person named Tom in the First in Liners group. One was from Alaska, and he became known as “Alaska Tom,” while Hart, who often skis on racing skis, became known as “Racer Tom.” “People just know me as ‘Racer Tom, ‘” Hart admitted. “Most people don’t even know my last name.”
At 64 years old, Hart realizes he can’t set a world record every year. “Even if I don’t go for the record every year, I’m still going to be a big vertical skier and get as much vertical as I can,” Hart declared. “The conditions the last two years have been really conducive to big vertical. We’ve had a decent amount of snow but not one powder day after the next.” Even on the stormy days, Hart said that he can nearly get as much vertical as he does on groomer days.
Skiing this much vertical is hard on equipment, especially skis, but Hart is well prepared by owning 25 pairs of skis. “My quiver is 25 pairs, although I only wear seven of them,” Hart said. “Four are racing skis and three are recreational skis.” Thankfully, Hart was given a pair of skis last year from Peak Skis which gives a free pair to anyone who logs four million vertical feet. “Peak was very kind to give me a pair at the end of last year with their vertical challenge,” Hart said. “It was the 98 [underfoot] and it’s been a great pair for me and fit right into my quiver. I use that pair quite a bit.”
As Racer Tom carves his way toward an unprecedented 10 million vertical feet, he embodies the essence of dedication and passion in skiing. His relentless pursuit not only redefines personal limits but also sets a new benchmark in the sport. Hart’s journey is a testament to what can be achieved through unwavering commitment, inspiring skiers worldwide to chase their own monumental goals.
