With fall colors sprawling across the Centennial State, Colorado’s snowsports industry gathered Saturday, Oct. 6, in Vail to celebrate the Colorado Snowsports Museum Hall of Fame Induction Gala.

The Colorado Snowsports Hall of Fame has more than 200 members, and some of them were in attendance at the Vail Marriott on Saturday to welcome five new members.

While a celebration of members of the snowsports community, the annual gala raises funds for the Colorado Ski and Snowboard Museum and Hall of Fame, which recently underwent a $2.6 million renovation and boasting some really cool features on display.

“A museum’s not just about stuff,” said Susie Tjossem, who has spent 42 years in the ski industry including taking over as executive director of the Colorado Ski and Snowboard Museum in 2007. “Its purpose is to tell stories, like the ones here tonight. It houses their legacy forever.”

On display at the upgraded museum is an interactive display of Colorado ski resorts, those currently operating and those that have closed down over the years. On Sunday, Oct. 7, at 10 a.m., the Class of 2018’s Hall of Fame exhibit will be unveiled.

As with any Colorado skiing history, the 10th Mountain Division was front and center of the annual gala.

“It’s humbling to be in your presence,” a current 10th Mountain Division general told those in attendance who originally fought in World War II with the 10th Mountain Division, including Sandy Treat and Dick Over.

The Colorado Snowsports Hall of Fame Induction Gala is one of the most important celebrations of the state’s snowsports industry and is a unique opportunity to mix and mingle with the men and women who helped shape the Colorado ski and snowboard industry.