Tamara McKinney: A Tribute to the Legend

Locals of the Squaw Valley ski area know the name. Tamara McKinney thrilled us in the early 80s, captured our hearts by the 90s, and today serves as a community leader and inspiration to us all. Her life reads like the American dream – as a record breaking ski champion she challenged the nation and broke the mold, paving the way for women skiers everywhere.

Recently ranked #3 in Tahoe Quarterly‘s list of Top 25 Athletes in Tahoe/Reno History, and featured as one of the “Faces of Squaw” in Squaw Magazine, we were inspired to share some highlights of McKinney’s accomplished ski career which include –  nine national titles, three World Cup discipline titles, and the astonishing feat of being the first American woman skier to win the overall World Cup title in 1983. Throughout the 1980s, McKinney went on to dominate the industry earning the esteemed title of the winningest American skier in history, only recently trumped decades later by current modern equivalent, Olympic Skier Lindsey Vonn. Today she serves as part-time coach of the Squaw Valley Ski team, an expert real estate professional, loving mother, and will forever be known as the apple of Squaw Valley’s eye.

McKinney brings these same winning qualities to her work here at Sierra Sotheby’s International Realty. Her passion for alpine skiing and world champion ski racing skills translate into extensive knowledge of the Lake Tahoe and Squaw Valley area.  Her contributions to American Olympic Ski history and the Squaw Valley community are priceless. In honor of her accomplishments we take a moment to pay tribute to this local legend and are thrilled to have her as a part of our dynamic team.