Our History

In 1988, Larry, Sharon Chadwick and their family lost three members of their family to cancer. Larry was struck hard and really ticked off. Sharon stopped him in his tracks and said “then do something about it”. From there, Larry “Chad”  the ol’ Buckaroo and a few friends with Sharon’s inspiration and drive, started the Oregon Cancer Ski Out as a way to positively channel their sadness and frustration over the loss of loved ones to cancer.

The idea was to create an event that would benefit cancer research, hospice, prevention and awareness programs. The event had to be meaningful, affordable and well organized, but above all, it had to be fun… serious fun! The event had to make a difference investing locally in much needed hard to fund programs. We’ve done that consistently since the beginning.

The result was an innovative ski, & now snowboard, race with a team-based format that rewarded consistency, not speed, making it possible for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities to participate. These cancer fighters race for consistency in their teams’ differences from hidden pacesetter times over a series of wide, safe runs.

For over 35 years The Cancer Ski Out’s success is largely due to the strong support of team participants, corporate sponsors, partners and volunteers who return, year after year, to experience the fun, camaraderie and opportunity the Ski Out provides to give.

We hope our future grows to more ski & snowboard events using the serious fun event we created.

Join us. Send us a message on how to get involved.