VIDEO: From ‘Downhill Racer’ to the Hall of Fame

By Published On: April 20th, 2014Comments Off on VIDEO: From ‘Downhill Racer’ to the Hall of Fame
Robert Redford and Joe Jay Jalbert on the set of "Downhill Racer."

Robert Redford and Joe Jay Jalbert on the set of “Downhill Racer.”

New York – Joe Jay Jalbert, accomplished ski racer and founder of the globally renowned international sports production and distribution company Jalbert Productions International, was inducted Saturday night April 10 into the U.S. Ski Hall of Fame in Park City, Utah along with six other athletes and industry builders.

“It’s a crowning jewel for my career,” said Jalbert. “It is the zenith of what I could achieve in the professional and private world.”

Jalbert’s story is really one of living the American dream. Born and raised in Mullan, Idaho, he was drawn to ski racing at the age of five, while learning to ski at Lookout Pass, just minutes from his home. However, Jalbert’s career ambitions took a turn in a different direction in 1969 when he doubled for Robert Redford, had a bit part acting role, and served as a cameraman and technical director in the classic film “Downhill Racer.” Forty plus years later, Jalbert Productions International has produced numerous U.S. Ski Team television specials, ski industry product launches, official films and even added an Emmy award to his already impressive list of accomplishments. With over 800 sports productions to their credit including four official Olympic and 14 FIS World Championship films, Jalbert’s years spent covering the World Cup circuit have given him a truly unique perspective of the sport of skiing and sports TV and video production.

Jalbert’s production techniques combined with his gift for storytelling and enterprising distribution methodology has made JPI one of the most sought-after sports television and film producers for more than four decades.

“From day one, we have always tried to get unique shots and capture different perspectives of sports, which is very difficult to achieve,” said Jalbert. To get the perfect shot, Jalbert and his globe trekking crew of cameramen are always on the lookout for unusual and never before thought of camera placements.

“We try to get that unique angle and film incredible slow-motion shots to capture what we like to call the ‘guts and glory’ shot that captures the true sensation of sports and adventure. However, what I cherish the most looking back on my career are the amazing people that I have met through the world of sports. I have been very fortunate to have had the opportunity to capture the human drama sports evokes and help these very deserving athletes tell their stories,” he added.

Jalbert’s skiing accomplishments are also equally as impressive. They include being a four-time Junior Nationals team member, racing on the U.S. Ski Team prior to the debut of the World Cup, and just missing a spot on the 1968 Olympic team. Additionally, he captained the University of Washington ski team for four consecutive years.

Jalbert had a dream, set ambitious goals, dedicated himself to his craft and found new and innovative ways to capture sports on film. It was his drive, belief, character and conviction that paved the way for him to live his dreams and pave the way for others in the world of sports film production.

Release courtesy of JPI

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