Jim Martinson has given more for his country than most, losing both of his legs to a land mine while serving in Vietnam.
That hasn’t kept him on the sidelines, however.
As a direct result of his talent and determination, Martinson will be inducted into the National Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame during April 9 ceremonies in Aspen, Colo.
Having grown up skiing at Crystal Mountain, Martinson figured out way to continue his passion for the slopes after his injury. In 1985 he developed the Shadow, a “sit ski” that changed adaptive skiing forever.
He won the gold medal for the United States at the 1992 Paralympics in Albertville, France, and, at 63, he was the oldest athlete to ever compete in the Winter Xgames. Now, at 69, he is still going strong.
Two ski shops, Wapati Woolies in Greenwater and Sturtevant’s Sports of Bellevue, have teamed up to sent Martinson to the Hall of Fame in style. Each teamed with product suppliers to outfit Martinson in the latest gear for the big event in Aspen.
Bob Grubb, owner of Wapati Woolies and Martinson’s best friend since they were 5 years old, connected with Outdoor Research, Smith and Hestra gloves to create a red “Hot Sauce” outfit. Former U.S. ski team member Tracy Gibbons, owner of Sturtevant’s, worked with Helly Hansen and Giro for the outfit in Martinson’s favorite blue.
A “Jim Martinson Hall of Fame Makeover” page has been created on Facebook and visitors can vote for a favorite outfit. The two ski shops have teamed up to put together a prize package to be drawn for one of the lucky voters.
The American Lake Veterans Golf Course, where Martinson is on the board of directors, has put up the money to help finance the Colorado trip. Anyone wishing to help fund the trip can make a donation through http://veterangolf.org/howtohelp, noting the gift is for Martinson.
