Catharine (Katie) Robertson Ronson

Katie Ronson worked tirelessly for many years to further the sport of skiing actively promoting the development of the Blue Mountain Escarpment as a ski area, while at the same time, sensitive to the need to preserve the area’s natural environment by pioneering the Blue Mountain section of the Bruce Trail.

For many years she served as the fulltime Executive Secretary of the Southern Ontario Division of the Canadian Amateur Ski Association (CASA), becoming, in 1961, National Executive Secretary of the Canadian Amateur Ski Association [later the Canadian Ski Association (CSA)], a position she held until her resignation in 1966.

Her considerable knowledge and talent were continually sought and freely given. No better tribute to her talent was given then by Nancy Greene Raine who said:

“Long before I won the big ones, Katie took me under her wing and helped me in so many ways. Her guidance and advice to a small-town girl from the interior of British Columbia was just what I needed. During my racing years the National Team attended many ski shows and fund raising functions in Toronto. Katie was always there organizing things, and especially organizing me. She would pick me up at the airport, feed and house me, and make sure I got enough rest.

She gave me an insight into the political workings of the Canadian Ski Association, something most competitors never understood. In those years Katie was Executive Secretary of the CASA. She literally ran everything and when she finally retired the Association had to hire three people to replace her. Katie was one of the best-organized people I have ever met. She always had everything ‘tickety-boo’ – her home was always immaculate, her days productive, and her personality always steady and dependable.

All of us who were lucky enough to know and love Katie will miss her in many ways. She was a person who was always doing things for others, and I am sure I am not alone in wishing that somehow, I could have done more for her.″

She had a number of honors bestowed upon her including:

1967
The Centennial Medal in recognition of valuable service to the nation

1968
The Province of Ontario Merit Award in appreciation of her contribution to the field of athletics

1970
An Achievement Award given by the Province of Ontario in grateful recognition of a distinguished contribution to the field of fitness and amateur sport

Please Note: The ski information gathered here is compiled from a number of sources; it may not be inclusive of all accomplishments.
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