Steamboat Stories - Billy Kidd

William "Billy" Winston Kidd blazed his own ski trail to the world stage securing the Silver Medal in Slalom Skiing 1964 in Innsbruck as an amateur, and becoming America's first gold medal winner in men's skiing at the FIS World Championships in 1970 as a pro skier. Known for his unique effortless form and donning the "Billy Kidd Stetson," Billy was made Steamboat Resort's "Director of Skiing" in 1970, continuing to promote the sport to generations of Steamboat guests for over 50 years, offering a "money back guarantee to get you one step closer to the Olympics" during his daily one o'clock run down Heavenly Daze.
While Billy Kidd is enjoying the slopes on his own terms as Director of Skiing these days, keep a weathered eye out for his signature pheasant and turquoise emblazoned Stetson, as he can still be found demonstrating how to "plant your poles for a better form", and encouraging the youngest of skiers and riders on top tips to polish their "medal acceptance speeches."
To help celebrate the 60th Anniversary of Steamboat Resort, we have compiled stories of people who have shaped the mountain from its humble beginnings to the resort of today, sharing their deep roots, traditions, and memories.
If you would like to add your own stories and memories of Steamboat, please tag your social media posts with #steamboat60.

[@ProjectRaijin]

the nicest man alive, taught me how to ski when i was 4 (2004)

[@maryanngarrimone1153]

I was so lucky to meet him in the early 70's when he came to Vail to ski. He stayed at the hotel where I worked. Nice guy!

[@yougotmossed3592]

I attended one of those afternoon clinics a number of years ago. He really was a nice down to earth guy that seemed in no rush to finish. Took a lot of questions and gave good answers. If you go to Steamboat, I recommend going to one of these.

[@snoman71]

He skis what I ski, Head Kores.

[@ynot0714]

Did a couple of those afternoon ski runs with Billy while in college back in the mid 80's. He's the man! ⛷️