History of the TetraSki
Design and development of the TetraSki started in 2014 at the University of Utah. Testing and training for TetraSki technology is through TRAILS Adaptive (Technology, Recreation, Access, Independence, Lifestyle, Sports), the University of Utah Health’s regional, national and global adaptive sports and recreation program.
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The TetraSki concept began as a University of Utah mechanical engineering capstone project, culminating in the production of this TetraSki demo. ”
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First on-snow test of the TetraSki in Utah.”
“First skier with a spinal cord injury tests the TetraSki by using a joystick.”
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Brian McKenna tests the TetraSki by using a sip and puff device. Brian’s testing and feedback would eventually lead to the first ever TetraSki race event in 2022.”
“• Completion of the “release version” prototype and first national TetraSki training for instructors and coaches.
• The TetraSki debuted at the Ski Spectacular, one of the U.S.’s largest winter sports festivals for people with disabilities.”
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The official release of the TetraSki and first expansion of the ski delivered to other adaptive programs nationally and internationally to Vancouver, Canada.”
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The TetraSki is featured on NBC’s “Today Show” with renowned journalist Harry Smith. The video tells the story of adaptive athlete Derek Sundquist and TetraSki founder Jeff Rosenbluth.”
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The International Paralympic Committee welcomed a demonstration of the TetraSki at the 2019 World Para Alpine Skiing Championship in Kranjska Gora, Slovenia.”
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Continued instructor training and expansion of the TetraSki to adaptive programs across the U.S. Pictured is the TetraSki with adaptive sports partners in New Hampshire: sunset run at Loon Mountain.”
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TetraSki instructor training expands to adaptive programs in France, which now has a TetraSki for participants to try out.”
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The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) releases its “Chasing Greatness” video, featuring the TetraSki. ”
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World’s first TetraSki race at Powder Mountain in Eden, Utah: The Brian McKenna TetraSki Express.”
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TetraSki European Tour and training takes place in Switzerland with a demonstration in The Netherlands. Switzerland receives its first TetraSki.
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First regional qualifier TetraSki and Snow’Kart race hosted by High Country Adaptive Sports at Arizona Snowbowl in Flagstaff, Ariz.”
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Due to an epic snowstorm that hit Powder Mountain Resort in Utah, we were forced to cancel the 2023 Brian McKenna TetraSki Express National Championship race to insure the safety of athletes and volunteers.
The 2024 race made history as the first international TetraSki race with 32 athletes from across the U.S. and Canada. The event also raised more than $75,000 for TRAILS Adaptive.”
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The 2025 Brian McKenna TetraSki Express hosts the International Championship in TetraSki and Snow’Kart downhill racing. The third annual full-day race and celebration is Friday, March 28, 2025 at Powder Mountain Resort in Eden, UT.”