Jimmie Spencer

In 1979, retired British Army officer Jimmy Spencer was appointed executive director of the Canada West Ski Areas Association (CWSAA). Many doubted the appointment at first, but his record in helping promote the Western Canadian ski industry won him many admirers and plenty of accolades.

Spencer served in the Light Anti-aircraft Regiment of the Royal Artillery during World War II and took part in the Salerno landings in September 1943. After the War, he continued service in Germany, Austria and the UK. It was during his time in Austria that he perfected his skiing skills in the Alps after Winston Churchill requested the setting up of an Alpine command unit, and Spencer was trained to become a skilled skier and marksman. He went on to win the Winter pentathlon test at the British Army Skiing Championships in 1952 and 1953 and also competed in the cross country skiing events (individual and relay) at the 1952 Winter Olympics.

It was Spencer’s passion for skiing that eventual saw him make his new home in Canada, where he became a much loved and inspirational leader of the CWSAA. In 2007 he received the Order of British Columbia, and in 2011 was inducted into the Canadian Ski Hall of Fame for his dedication to the sport.