To grow the community of VI Nordic skiers and racers, programs must be accessible at all levels of the sport. The Visually Impaired Nordic Skier Fund is committed to making high-level Nordic skiing more inclusive and attainable for VI athletes.
How far can you ski with your eyes closed?
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Brian O’Neal l VINSF Founder
Brian O’Neal is a lifelong Nordic, Alpine and Backcountry skier. Brian’s first experience Nordic skiing with a VI athlete was when he was 12 years old, skiing with his aunt, U.S. Paralympian Billie Ruth Schlank.
Brian also loves to river raft, mountain bike, fly fish, explore remote landscapes , backpack, hike, camp, and garden. Brian appreciates time spent outdoors and its grounding effect on life and is committed to helping individuals with impairments experience the same.
Brian has always worked with people - as an Outward Bound instructor, soccer coach, public school employee, youth Nordic ski program developer and instructor and TRAILS volunteer. Through TRAILS, he was introduced to guiding VI Nordic skiers and has developed a passion for guiding VI skiers in Nordic races. Having guided at events such as Biathlon Nationals, Cross Country Nationals and Ski For Light, Brian understands the expenses and obstacles a VI skier faces while traveling.
Brian’s experience creating and running outdoor programs, his passion for working with people with impairments and his love for skiing have led him to create the VINSF. Brian’s goal is to improve access to Nordic skiing for the visually impaired community.
