Winning the giant slalom at the 1968 Winter Olympics in Grenoble by one of the largest margins in history, Nancy Greene Raine established a standard of dominance in international alpine skiing. Born in Ottawa in 1943, she later transitioned from a record-breaking athletic career into government service, serving as a member of the Senate of Canada for nearly a decade.
Early Development and Athletic Rise
Moving to the mountainous region of Rossland, British Columbia, before age three, Greene Raine engaged with the sport at an early age. Nicknamed "Tiger" for her aggressive style, she progressed through the Canadian Junior Championships to represent the national team from 1959 to 1968. Her career included 17 Canadian titles and three United States championships.
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In 1967, she secured the inaugural World Cup title, winning seven of 16 events. She repeated this victory in 1968, the same year she captured Olympic gold in the giant slalom and silver in the slalom. Recognized as Canada's Female Athlete of the 20th Century, she received the Bobbie Rosenfeld Award and the Lou Marsh Trophy twice.
Business Ventures and Resort Development
Following her retirement from competitive skiing, Greene Raine and her husband, Al Raine, focused on resort development. After building a cabin in Whistler in 1970, they contributed to the growth of the Whistler-Blackcomb Resort. Later, they moved to Sun Peaks Resort, where she serves as a skiing ambassador and operates the Cahilty Lodge.
Political and Public Service
Appointed to the Senate of Canada in 2009, she represented British Columbia until reaching the mandatory retirement age of 75 in 2018. Her public service also included roles with the federal Task Force on Sport for Canadians and as chancellor of Thompson Rivers University. She participated in the 2010 Vancouver Olympic Games as an ambassador and torchbearer.
Fast facts
- Born: 1943, Ottawa, Canada
- Olympic Gold Medal: 1968 Giant Slalom
- Senate Service: 2009-2018
- World Cup Titles: 1967, 1968
- Order of Canada: Officer
- Sports Hall of Fame: Canada, British Columbia, United States
Questions readers ask
What is the Nancy Greene Ski League?
It is an entry-level race program dedicated to promoting the sport for young children.
When did she serve in the Senate?
Greene Raine served as a member of the Senate of Canada from January 2, 2009, until May 11, 2018.
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