Viki Fleckenstein, a native of Camillus, is the area’s most celebrated skiing star. The West Genesee graduate, who started skiing when she was 5, competed on teams at the local, state and junior national levels during her formative years (1966-1971).

 

Fleckenstein won the Junior National Slalom championship in 1974 which drew the attention of U.S. Ski Team coaches. From 1974 to 1980 she competed on the World Cup circuit as a member of the U.S. Ski Team. She had a number of top 10 World Cup finishes in Europe, Japan, Canada and the U.S. She was voted the top U.S. female skier in 1977.

 

Fleckenstein had the honor of being one of seven U.S. women to make the 1980 Lake Placid Olympics alpine ski team. She competed in the giant slalom. Following the Olympics, Fleckenstein joined the pro tour and ranked among the top athletes in her sport, winning over $150,000. She retired from competitive skiing in 1984. Fleckenstein (married name Viki Woodworth) is a published author and illustrator who resides in Massachusetts.

 

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

 

1974: Member of U.S. National Giant Slalom Champion team

 

1974 -1980: Member of U.S. Ski Team

 

1975: Fifth place on Giant Slalom in Naeba, Japan

 

1976: Won Can-Am Giant Slalom and 49 Degree races

 

1977: Voted as top U.S. Female Skier; 12 th place in the World Alpine Championship in Germany

 

1978: Third place in World Cup Slalom in Switzerland

 

1980: Member of U.S. Olympic Team; Turned professional and joined the pro tour.

 

1980-1983: Won over $150,000 on women’s pro tour

 

1985-1986: ESPN color commentator for World Cup Skiing

 

1986: Member of Visa Women All-Stars Championship Team

 

1991: Won the Clairol Personal Best Female Athlete Award