About the Film
“Spider Lives” is a new documentary about Spider Sabich, an American alpine ski racer and member of the US Ski team in the 1960’s. Occasionally an American ski racer emerges who soars to success, both on and off snow. Once in a generation that person possesses the special potion that transcends individual accomplishment and elevates the entire sport. The late Vladimir Peter “Spider” Sabich was one such superstar and super-persona.
Spider competed in the 1968 Winter Olympics and won a World Cup slalom that season. Turning Pro in 1971, Spider dominated, with 16 wins and 40 podiums earning back-to-back tour titles in 1971 and 1972. Spider dueled triple Olympic medalist and global superstar Jean Claude Killy for the title in 1973, an epic season-long battle that came down to the final weekend. Spider was at the peak of his influence as ski racing’s premier ambassador in America when he was victim of a scandalous murder at his home in Aspen, Colorado in March, 1976. He was 31 and still an active Pro racer.
An American skiing hero—a humble version of Joe Namath—Spider attracted sponsors from outside the sport, drawing new fans to ski racing on the power of his talent and infectious charisma. He radiated and inspired, especially youngsters, with whom he went out of his way to connected at every venue. “There was no better spokesperson for the sport,” said the late US Ski Team coach and industry pioneer, Bob Beattie (founder of the World Cup, World Pro Skiing, and NASTAR). His tragic passing, right on the cusp of his transition to the business side, was an immeasurable loss for the sport. But his brand of relatability, advocacy, and passionate zest for life resonates throughout this film as an example for sport builders today.
Spider Sabich was inducted into the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Hall of fame posthumously on April 8, 2022.
A portion of ticket proceeds will support the mission of the Bob Beattie Ski Foundation.
Post-film discussion with the directors of “Spider Lives” Christin Cooper and Mark Tache, plus special guests.
Wine and Beer available for purchase.
