In a tragic turn of events, the skiing world mourns the loss of Katherine 'Kasha' Rigby, a respected competitive skier and telemark skiing pioneer. Rigby, aged 54, met her untimely death in an avalanche at the Ski Center in Brezovica, Kosovo, while enjoying a day on the slopes with her fiancé, Magnus Wolfe Murray.
The incident occurred when Rigby, who was known for her daring and high-speed skiing style, dropped in at the top of the run, triggering a small avalanche that swept her off the trail and into the trees. Despite Murray's quick efforts to locate her and administer CPR, Rigby sadly succumbed to her injuries, which included internal bleeding and lung damage.
Rigby's passion for skiing began in her early years in Stowe, Vermont, where she honed her skills as a telemark skier. Telemark skiing, a unique blend of Alpine and Nordic techniques, became her specialty, leading her to competitions and expeditions around the globe.
Her remarkable career included joining the North Face Team in 1995 and embarking on skiing adventures across various continents, including challenging terrains like the highest peak in Siberia and the Mongolian Five Holy Peaks. Rigby's accomplishments reached new heights when she became one of three American women to ski an 8000m peak, showcasing her talent and tenacity in extreme conditions.
Beyond her skiing accolades, Rigby's humanitarian efforts shone brightly as she transitioned to earthquake relief work in Nepal and Turkey. She also dedicated her time to assisting with the Rohingya refugee crisis and collaborating with the World Food Program in Bangladesh, embodying a spirit of compassion and service.
As the ski community reflects on Rigby's remarkable life and contributions, her legacy as a trailblazer in telemark skiing and a dedicated humanitarian stands as a testament to her indomitable spirit. Though her time with us was cut short, her impact and inspiration will endure, leaving an indelible mark on those who knew her and the sport she loved.
Our thoughts are with Magnus Wolfe Murray and all who were touched by Katherine 'Kasha' Rigby's boundless energy, passion, and adventurous spirit.
