Park City’s Alf Engen Ski Museum founder honored at annual Far West Ski Association Convention

Larry Young, senior sales representative for Steamboat Ski & Resort Corporation, and Jane Wyckoff, history committee chair for the Far West Ski Association, presented Alan K. Engen with the Western Ski Heritage Award at the Awards Banquet at the 91st Annual FWSA Convention. Photo: Craig Caples

Alan K. Engen, Bianca Dumas, and Alf Engen Ski School receive top awards in Reno

RENO, Nev. — Utah’s prominent figures in snowsports were honored at the 91st Annual Far West Ski Association Convention held June 6-9, 2024, at the Atlantis Casino Resort Spa in Reno. Among the honorees were Alan K. Engen, a noted snowsports historian, writer Bianca Dumas, and the renowned Alf Engen Ski School.

Alan K. Engen, a Hall of Famer, received the Western Ski Heritage Award for his extensive efforts to preserve and share the history of snowsports. Engen, who founded the Alf Engen Ski Museum in Park City, has authored several books and produced numerous films documenting the rich history of skiing in Utah. “Preserving our snowsports heritage is vital,” Engen said at the banquet. “It’s an honor to be recognized for these efforts.”

Bianca Dumas was awarded the Bill Berry Award for her outstanding ski-related journalism. Her work, including the cover story “Athlete of the Century” about ski legend Alf Engen, has been widely acclaimed.

The Alf Engen Ski School, established in 1948 at Alta, was also recognized for its long-standing contributions to ski instruction. Scott Mathers, the current director, accepted the Historic Recognition Certificate. “We continue to uphold the legacy of Alf Engen by providing top-notch ski education,” Mathers stated.

The Far West Ski Association, a volunteer non-profit representing 150 ski clubs, celebrates such achievements annually, acknowledging individuals and organizations that have significantly impacted the skiing community.

For more information on the awards and the Far West Ski Association, visit their website at https://www.fwsa.org.