Our History

Our History

In 2002, Utah hosted the world for the XIX Olympic Winter Games and the VIII Paralympic Winter Games. By any measure, the 2002 Games were a success – featuring 2500 Olympians representing 77 nations who came to Utah to pursue their Olympic dreams. Incredible venues and ideal weather combined to create the perfect stage for the athletes to perform at their best.

The largest crowds ever for an Olympic Winter Games (a record that still holds today) filled the venues and cheered for every athlete, in every sport, from every country. The US Team won 34 Olympic medals and 43 Paralympic medals at the 2002 Games. Athletes including Derek Parra, Sarah Hughes, Janica Kostelic, Ole Einar Bjoerndalen and Vonetta Flowers all made history in their own special way.

Of course, the issue for all Olympic host cities is always the same — how will great Olympic memories transform into lasting benefits for the host community and country? The Utah Olympic Legacy Foundation was the answer to this question, created to carry on the positive impacts of the 2002 Winter Games for Utah residents and our visitors from all over the world!

Inspired by the success and momentum of the 2002 Salt Lake Olympic Winter Games, the Foundation has turned its focus toward embracing, engaging and involving Utah’s youth in winter sport. From community-based recreational programs and progression-oriented development programs to its official designation as an official U.S. Olympic Training Site at the Utah Olympic Oval, the Utah Olympic Park, and Soldier Hollow Nordic Center – the Foundation represents the future of winter sports in North America.