I recently bumped into John Race who is Olivia’s husband at Stevens Pass and he smiled and said “Olivia won Vertfest 2012!” I was like what! Are you kidding? I think I was as proud as John was to hear our very own Leavenworth girl, new mom and IFMGA/UIAGM Super Mountain Guide won this prestigious title! As soon as I got home I quickly called to get more details and Olivia was nice enough to send us a few pictures. The race was held at Alpental ski area and competitors do 2 laps from the bottom of the area to the top.

John and Olivia run the Northwest Mountain School which offers training and trips in the climbing and skiing arts both locally and abroad. Combined they have over 30 years of experience as Mountain Guides and are based out of Leavenworth Washington.

Congratulations to Olivia Cussen!

Here is nice video that showcases the event.