October 04, 2013 (Vermont) – Word of Mike Gallagher’s passing yesterday has left a large hole in many hearts today both in this country and abroad. Gallagher, who passed away on his 72nd birthday at his home in Vermont, was an inspiration to many in the sport of cross-country skiing for decades.

As a racer he made three Olympic teams and three FIS World Championship Ski teams, and racked up an impressive nine US National titles. His most cherished result was placing 19th at the Holmenkollen 50km classic in 1968. Gallagher went on to serve as Head Coach for the US Ski Team from 1980-1986. He also became a highly skilled bicycle racer for a number of years. Later in his career he spent many years as the Nordic skiing director at the Mountain Top Inn and also taught skiing at Mountain Meadows. In addition he coached high school level skiing for 17 seasons.

Born in Yonkers, NY, his father was a veteran of the 10th Mountain Division, and as a young man Gallagher developed a taste for running and alpine skiing. At all levels this indefatigable Vermonter has left a mark and his love of life, of family, and of storytelling. His Irish songs sung with great gusto in the sauna, his kind and sentimental side, and his toughness, was the stuff of legend. Never did he tire of talking about cross-country skiing and never did we tire of listening.

We interviewed Mike last year following Kikkan Randall’s Sprint Cup Globe historic victory as she become the first American women to win a cross-country ski World Cup overall title.

Gallagher is survived by his wife Tyna and sons Jessie and Sean.

SkiTrax joins the Nordic ski community in sending condlences to Gallagher’s family and friends.