You could say that the Hewitt family is a skiing family. Kelsey’s parents, Randy and Elise, met and started dating in college largely because of skiing and ski racing. Not being ones to procrastinate, we booted up both of our children, Kelsey and Braden, when they were just wee tots – about 3 years old. From that point forward, we were making ski tracks every winter, often in the company of grandparents Don and Linda, a few aunts and uncles, and several lifelong skier friends.
Randy and Kelsey did their homework and formed the Grant High School Ski Racing team in 2005. The team continues to thrive today – 19 years later. The legacy of this accomplishment is proudly and permanently etched into both dad’s and daughter’s life stories.
In many ways, high school ski racing is one big family, held together by the nearly timeless commitment of coaches and organizers and the steady influx of eager high school racers. When our family lost Kelsey to a skiing accident in 2015, the only sensible follow through was to add another meaningful element to OISRA racing by establishing a memorial race in Kelsey’s honor. The all inclusive Kelsey’s Race was born and infused with Kelsey’s zeal for skiing.
As you consider participating in Kelsey’s Race, take a moment to reflect on your love of family, your love of skiing, and your appreciation of all that you have before you. Know that your participation adds to the festivity of the race, and fills the Hewitt family hearts just a little bit more.
Welcome with open arms,
Randy, Elise, and Braden Hewitt
Kelsey's Race 