2025 – ATHLETICS

Ross “The Red Rocket” Anderson, a World Cup / Professional Athlete, is a member of the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes and of Mescalero-Chiricahua Apache tribal descent. As a five-time Hall of Fame inductee, eight-time National Champion, four-time Podium, and All-American Record holder for Speed Skiing, Ross Anderson represents the modern face of legacy in the United States. In 2001, Anderson made history as the first Native American and the only person of color to secure a podium place in the World Championships, finishing second. Anderson’s crowning achievement came in April 2006 in Les Arc’s, France, where he established the fastest speed ever recorded from the Western Hemisphere at 154.06 mph, solidifying his position as the “Fastest Skier in American History.” Anderson was honored with his first Hall of Fame induction in 2023 with his induction into the North American Indigenous Athletic Hall of Fame. In 2024, Anderson became the first Native American inducted into the U.S. Hall of Fame, the Colorado Hall of Fame, and the New Mexico Hall of Fame for the Lifetime Achievement Award. Anderson has also received the 2025 Snowsports Builder Award from the Far West Ski Association for his dedication to introducing the sport of skiing to Native youth. Anderson continues his youth outreach work through his Star 154 Foundation.