The Murphy Roberts Holiday Classic returned to Steamboat Springs December 19–20, 2025, bringing elite alpine ski racing, festive community energy, and standout performances by Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club (SSWSC) athletes to Howelsen Hill. Now in its 24th year, the Holiday Classic featured two days of slalom racing with top regional, collegiate, and nationally ranked athletes from across the U.S. and nearly 15 other countries.
Friday’s racing culminated in the iconic America’s Night Slalom, a signature Steamboat event that transformed Howelsen Hill into a stadium-style venue under the lights. Fans packed the finish area, ringing cowbells and enjoying music from a live DJ, fire pits, hot drinks, and up-close viewing of high-speed slalom action. Santa even made an appearance before the women kicked off the night race.
In the women’s Night Slalom, Paige Dehart of the University of Colorado took the win, followed by Mia Hunt of the University of Denver in second and Louison Accambray of the University of Colorado in third. Two-time defending Holiday Classic overall champion Sara Rask finished fourth. On the men’s side, Filip Wahlqvist of the University of Colorado claimed first place, continuing his strong form at Howelsen Hill. SSWSC alum Jay Poulter (University of Utah) was among the top finishers in a deep international field.
Local athletes made their presence felt throughout the night. SSWSC U18 skier Caley Goforth won the U18 women’s category. In the U18 men’s race, SSWSC athlete Matthew Kafka earned a podium finish in second place.
The event also honored the spirit of Murphy Roberts, a former SSWSC athlete who passed away unexpectedly in 2016 at the age of 22. The Roberts family continues to support young athletes through the Murphy Roberts Scholarship Fund. On Friday night, three $1,000 scholarships were awarded to Schuyler Biglow (SSWSC), Valerie Faith Cross (Aspen Valley Ski & Snowboard Club), and Nadia Leunig (Team Summit), recognizing athletes who best exemplify passion, enthusiasm, and team spirit.
Racing continued Saturday under challenging weather conditions that included rain, snow, and flat light, but athletes delivered another exciting day of competition. Mia Hunt posted the fastest women’s time of the day, while Filip Wahlqvist secured his second straight men’s victory, locking in the overall Holiday Classic title for the men. Hunt’s performance earned her the overall women’s title for the 2025 series.
SSWSC athletes again stood out on the final day. Caley Goforth finished third in the junior and U18 women’s categories, continuing her strong weekend and underscoring the promise of Steamboat’s next generation of alpine racers.
The Murphy Roberts Holiday Classic once again showcased the unique blend of world-class competition, hometown pride, and community celebration that defines ski racing in Steamboat Springs. Thanks to the City of Steamboat Springs, SSWSC staff, and dedicated volunteers, the event was successfully delivered despite difficult conditions, continuing a beloved tradition that honors Murphy Roberts’ legacy while inspiring the next generation of skiers.
