TJ Lanning Accident, Park City UT Obituary, Ski Racer Suicide, Former U.S. Ski Team Member Dies At 41

The U.S. ski racing community is mourning the loss of Thomas “TJ” Lanning, a former U.S. Ski Team alpine skier and coach from Park City, Utah, who passed away at the age of 41. The U.S. Ski & Snowboard Team expressed their condolences, stating, “We are deeply saddened by the passing of TJ Lanning, a former U.S. Ski Team alpine skier and coach whose impact on our sport went far beyond his years of competition. 🤍 Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and children during this difficult time.”

Born on August 27, 1984, in Helena, Montana, TJ Lanning was recognized as one of America’s most promising speed skiers of his generation. Known for his fearless approach to downhill, super-G, and combined events, he brought an aggressive, all-in style that made him a captivating figure on the slopes. From a young age, he demonstrated exceptional talent, competing at the 2001 and 2002 FIS Junior World Ski Championships and later representing the United States at the 2007 FIS Alpine World Ski Championships in Åre, Sweden.

Lanning scored World Cup points nine times and achieved three top-10 finishes, including a ninth-place downhill at Lake Louise in 2008 and a tenth-place finish in Val Gardena, Italy, the same year. His career was marked not only by talent but also by resilience. Despite repeated injuries that interrupted his seasons, Lanning’s fearless racing style endeared him to fans and peers alike. In 2008, he became the U.S. downhill champion and qualified for the World Cup Finals, finishing the season ranked 25th in downhill and 33rd in super-G.

His final World Cup race was in Lake Louise in November 2009. During that race, Lanning suffered a severe crash that resulted in a dislocated left knee and a fractured C5 vertebra in his neck, ending his competitive career. Despite the physical toll, Lanning remained deeply involved in ski racing through coaching, sharing his experience, honesty, and passion with the next generation of athletes.

Friends and colleagues remember him not only as a courageous racer but also as a dedicated teammate, coach, and friend who cared deeply about others. His life embodied persistence, pain, promise, and impact—leaving a lasting legacy in the sport he loved.

Lanning’s untimely passing is a profound loss for the U.S. ski racing community. Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and all who knew him, as they mourn the loss of a remarkable athlete and person whose energy and spirit enriched the sport.