Kerrin Lee-Gartner - Fernie

Kerrin Lee-Gartner is one of the world's top female skiers.

Born and raised in Trail she grew up to compete in downhill skiing with the Rossland Red Mountain Racers Ski Club where her natural ability allowed her to move quickly through the junior racing ranks.

Kerrin Lee-Gartner was chosen for the Canadian Women's Ski Team at age 16 but in 1985, following a serious accident which dashed her hopes for the successful World Cup tour the year before, she underwent reconstructive surgery on her knee.

In February, 1989, another accident kept her off her skis for six months but again she came back.

Kerrin Lee-Gartner has overcome tremendous adversity, defied injuries which could have ended her career, and rehabilitated herself to return to the top of the women's world ski rankings.

An outstanding 1991-92 season, including eight top 10 finishes on the World Cup ski circuit, was climaxed by her thrilling and well-deserved Gold Medal victory in the downhill event at Albertville, France.

A superb role model for other young athletes in British Columbia, Kerrin Lee-Gartner exemplifies the best qualities of human courage and commitment to be the best that you can be.