Featured Image: Jeff Thomas | Skier: Josh Diaek
In 2021, the Caldor Fire ripped through Northern California, burning over 1,000 structures and more than 221,000 acres of land. Professional skier Josh Daiek was one of many who were impacted by the burn, watching houses and his beloved mountains go up in smoke. But for Daiek, the worst consequences of the fire were yet to come.
In the new film, “Caldor,” we examine a side of this hard-nosed Michigander that isn’t often seen. Daiek is a tough ass skier by all accounts, mounting relentless foot-powered missions and ridding steep lines at puckering speeds. But this film allows us to see the vulnerable, open side of one of our favorite skiers. Through an unwavering appreciation of life and a refreshing honest optimism, Daiek allows all of us to see the best version of ourselves in him, and gives us a gentle push to live more for those we’ve lost.
From YouTube:
The summer of 2021 turned California into an inferno. Years of relentless drought culminated in the largest wildfires in the state’s history. The Caldor Fire ravaged the Sierra Nevada, destroying homes, ski resorts, and everything in its path. As the fire closed in on Lake Tahoe, professional skier Josh Daiek and the local community were forced to abandon their homes and possessions. No one could have foreseen the extent of the destruction or the profound impact the fire would have on their lives. A year later, just as the community began to recover, tragedy struck again, leaving Josh to grapple with renewed loss and uncertainty. This film delves into the heartache of saying goodbye to your home, cherished friends, and the beloved forest that served as your playground.
Photo Gallery
Skier: Josh Daiek
