Peter Young, a visually-impaired skier from England, died this past summer of cancer. Peter attended SFL from 1999 through 2002, and he hoped to be back with us in 2003. We will miss him greatly, but we can count on Peter to be with us in spirit.

Reflections from SFL President Larry Showalter Peter was a remarkable man. He wasn't remarkable because he was a world-class skier; he wasn't remarkable because he was a world-class skier who was blind; he was remarkable for the way he just attacked life. He made the most of every moment, and drew all of those around him into his enjoyment. He had a way of making friends instantly, and if you knew Peter, you undoubtedly have memories of your times with him to treasure. Ordinary and extraordinary times that were enhanced by the way Peter included you, or by the way you saw him reach out to someone else.

-- Memories like Peter re-hydrating in the bar with a circle of people around him after skiing.

-- Memories like Peter approaching the finish line of the race course in Granby in 2000, well ahead of his nearest competitor, and the grace with which he accepted that he had made a wrong turn and would have to re-trace his tracks. He still won the 10k, as he always did.

-- Memories like Peter giving his 10k trophy that year to his friend, John Novotny, who was too ill to race, and who would not live out the year.

-- Memories like Peter saying in Norway earlier this year, "Don't worry about me, mate, I'll beat it."

In the weeks that followed, Peter couldn't beat the cancer that ravaged his body. But somehow you just know that if anybody could have beaten it, it would have been Peter Young.

From his long-time friend, Ken Bodden Those of you who met Pete later on in his life couldn't imagine a hugely overweight, bombastic kid who thought he could take on the world single-handed. His local pub was The Moby Dick, a name which he aptly inherited. Then imagine persuading us to give up the booze and get really fit!!! We trained, got fit, spent hours out in the trails being drilled in the technicalities of Cross Country skiing; then yes, to the bar.

Pete was central to the development of others who came to Norway to try skiing, and would encourage anyone to take part at whatever level they could. Ttrue to his own experience, he loved the tryers and adored the winners. He is at rest in one of his GB Cross Country ski suits, and a warm-up jacket to boot. I have numerous fond memories of Pete and stories of plenty to tell. Some are best not printed, and others are funny and best told in a sit -com environment. He will be somewhere out there in the trails, and I will raise a glass or two in cheers for those great times together and our love for each other and for life.

A Toast from Bud Keith I knew him for more than 20 years, and watched him grow from a rash, raw talent to an accomplished athlete. Hey, Pete! You skied a good race. Much of your life was a struggle. Thanks for showing us that a lot of hard work and determination can make a difference. As the snow flies and we think ahead to the upcoming ski season, I raise a toast to you. You did what many of us only dream of doing.

So thanks for the memories, and here's to you, Peter!