WENDY NEAL
2023 VARA HALL OF FAME
Wendy Neal, a true luminary in the world of ski racing and education, has left an indelible mark on both fields through her passion, leadership, and unwavering commitment. As we gather on October 28th at the Lake Morey Resort to induct her into the Hall of Fame, we will celebrate a lifetime dedicated to nurturing young athletes, fostering excellence, and shaping the future of ski racing.
Wendy began her lifelong pursuit of skiing and ski racing, hailing from Peabody, Massachusetts. As a youngster, she ski raced out of the Lynn Snowchasers Ski Club from Lynn, Mass., traveling as a weekend warrior to Cranmore Mountain. Along her journey, she secured her Vermont affiliation racing as a Killington Mountain competitor with the prestigious class of Vermont legendary alpine athletes such as Bob Cochran, Lindy, Marilyn Cochran, Dia Elliman, Rick, and Suzy Chafee. Many elite-level athletes were produced during her era of racing, and along with Wendy Neal, they paved the way to help make VARA the powerhouse it is today.
Wendy was a prominent contender as a member of the Can-AM team and a US Nationals competitor. She was drawn to downhill racing and thrived on the varied terrain across the country. In 1970, Wendy began her collegiate career at Johnson State College. Competing on one of the best women’s teams in the East at the time, she and her squad experienced much success leading the East in results during her tenure. In 1971, Wendy was a member of Team USA for the International FIS U games in Lake Placid, NY. Upon graduating from Johnson State College in 1974 with a Physical Education degree, Wendy began a new role. She went from athlete to coach. 1974-1976, she was part of a coaching team at Pats Peak in NH that helped start the Pats Peak Academy. Here, she was the head J3/4 coach and worked with many youngsters who headed to Vermont programs and went on to prominence in the sport.
Wendy's legacy is built on a foundation of dedication and love for the sport. Her induction into the Johnson State College Hall of Fame in 1993 was a testament to her remarkable achievements and her profound impact at an early stage in her career. Her contributions to ski racing, education, and her community have inspired countless individuals to pursue their passions with unwavering determination.
In 1977, Wendy became an essential member of the Stratton Mtn School Staff, leading and coaching young women and men at a pivotal time in their progression into young adults who would soon grow into confident individuals and successful athletes under her guidance. Wendy honed her skills working with legendary leaders in ski racing, such as Herman Gollner, Fritz Vallant, David Kerwynn, and Wolfgang Frandel. Wendy contributed wisdom, grassroots experience, and not-so-common in that time, a female perspective.
In 1987, Wendy became the Director of Racing at Okemo Mountain. She directed the program through tremendous growth and created a path that led to the beginning of Okemo Mountain School (OMS) in 1991/1992. As a founder of OMS along with Tim and Diann Muller, she worked diligently to assist in the early stages of the school. She was an integral component of the growth, success, and development of Okemo Mtn School, its programs, staff, and athletes. In 2005, Wendy took the lead as Head of School. Here, Wendy thrived, adding academic leadership to her already impressive role as mentor, coach, and visionary for Okemo racing and the VARA community.
Under Wendy’s guidance, USSA recognized the Okemo Race Program as a top club in the country.
In 2010, Wendy resigned from her beloved post as Head of School and spread her wealth of knowledge to the Vermont border state of New York, where she took a position as youth manager for the New York Ski Racing Association. In 2013, fulfilling a lifelong dream, she became owner-chef of Stemwinder restaurant in Ludlow, Vermont.
Wendy has served on countless committees involving the development of ski racing in VT and the nation. She was an influential member of the Eastern Children’s Committee as Chair, was the VARA Children's Committee Chair, and held a position on the USSA National Children's and Development Committee. She was instrumental in creating the Can-Am series, an international children's event that is still going strong today and has become a prestigious competitive event for U14’s. Wendy served as interim VARA Director for a brief time and for many years as part of the Eastern Alpine Competition Committee. Her volunteer roles have greatly impacted the ski racing community.
In celebrating Wendy Neal, we honor a true pioneer who has blazed trails in ski racing, education, and entrepreneurship. Her legacy is one of excellence, mentorship, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. Wendy Neal's story inspires all, reminding us that with dedication, vision, and a genuine love for what we do, we can accomplish great things and leave an enduring mark on the world around us. Her commitment and dedication to the athletes and families of VARA are immeasurable and have created a lasting impression on ski racing in Vermont and the Nation.
Wendy lives in Ludlow, Vt, with her husband, John, and continues to operate her restaurant and catering business. They have two grown children, Abigale and Pearson, who pursued their athletic endeavors as part of VARA. Pearson is a ski industry professional working with Nordica, POC, and a variety of other ski vendors.