September 24, 2010 (Brooklyn, NY) – An emerging fine-art photographer in New York City is organizing a benefit for the U.S. Women’s Ski Jumping Team on Oct. 21 in Brooklyn.

During the Vancouver Games in February, Jamie Clyde heard about the battle to allow women ski jumpers to compete in the Winter Olympics.

“I’m from Utah originally and most of these young women jumpers live there,” Clyde said. “I think it’s wrong they can’t compete and I wanted to do something to help.”

Clyde artistically photographed members of the U.S. team for auction at the benefit. Her goal is to raise awareness about the sport and this cause in one of the most influential cities in the world. She wants to help raise money for the team so they can train and compete internationally and continue to fight for inclusion in the Games. She’s donating the profits to Women’s Ski Jumping USA, the foundation that supports the team.

Ski jumping is the only discipline in both the Winter and Summer Games that does not allow women to compete. The U.S. Ski Team does not fund the women’s team because their sport is not considered part of the Olympic program. The U.S. women’s team is ranked second in the world.

Members of the women’s team will be in New York for the Oct. 21 fundraiser and Comedian Amy Wasserman, featured on “Last Comic Standing”, will emcee the event.

WHAT: Join the Journey New York City, a benefit for the U.S. Women’s Ski Jumping Team
WHEN: 6-10 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 21
WHERE: The Dumbo Loft, 155 Water Street, Brooklyn, New York, 11201
WHY: Raise money to help the team continue to train and compete in preparation for the 2011 World Championships in Oslo, Norway and the 2014 Olympic Winter Games in Sochi, Russia.
FEATURES: Meet the members of the U.S. women’s Ski jumping team; silent and live auction, open top shelf bar, gourmet samplings from NYC’s best restaurants, DJ and live music, and view trailer for film documentary on the jumpers – to be released fall of 2011.
EVENT MC: Comedian Amy Wasserman of the “Last Comic Standing”
COST: $250 per person – purchase online at www.wsjusa.com, or call 646-515-5204.
Sponsorship opportunities also available.