Download Nominee Citation HERE. Download Ballot HERE.

Craig grew up in Michigan, where skiing and outdoor sports are very popular, and learned to appreciate outdoor sports such as golf, wind surfing, sailing and of course skiing. After graduating with his Bachelor’s Degree, he migrated to California after receiving a finance position with an automobile firm. Since coming to California, Craig has become a man for all seasons. In the winter, he is a competitive ski racer and in the summer he enjoys triathlons, swimming, water skiing, wake boarding, bike riding, scuba diving and cooking.

Since 1997, Craig has been a member of the Inskiers Ski Club in San Mateo, California, which is in Singles League and the Bay Area Council. Craig became very involved after a couple of years as an active member. From 1999 to 2003, Craig volunteered to be the Race Director of the Inskiers Ski Club and helped the club grow in size while other clubs were shrinking. As a Race Director, Craig was a good organizer and motivator of club members to participate in the race program and other fun club events. Craig volunteered to help many times when others were long gone. Craig was instrumental in organizing volunteers for races and league events, and in negotiating with sponsors for the league.

In 2004, Craig became the League Race Chairman for Singles League. Since becoming Chairman, Craig brought in many innovations into the organization of Singles League. He brought in on-line registration, improved the website, incorporated season pricing discounts for the races and banquet, improved cooperation with Singles League, and a confident organized form of leadership.

In 2006, despite heavy odds against his league and lower numbers, he was able to lead Singles League to the Far West Championship in both Total Points and the Roma McCoy Trophy (Most Points Per Racer).

Craig has also been very influential in the BAC winning the Keystone Cup two years in a row. Craig was effective in getting a large number of Inskiers to come to Keystone for the national race, and was also the national champion in GS and Slalom in 2007.

Craig Faitel puts in countless hours making phone calls and emails to ski areas, race directors and racers to keep the communication smooth and accurate. He has been creative in changing racing rules and in ways to promote racing and increasing participation.

I believe Craig Faitel should be this year’s choice for the “Terry Smith Award”, and I hope the voting members see the value and enthusiasm that Craig brings to our organization and recognize him for the exceptional performance he has accomplished for Far West Racing.