One of the largest and most storied ski clubs in the Alps recently celebrated its 125th anniversary.
On Jan. 3, 1901, a group of skiing enthusiasts founded Ski Club Arlberg (SCA) at the Hospiz St. Christoph in Arlberg. At a time when skiing was still a new and developing sport, the founders saw its potential immediately. Today, 125 years later, the club continues to shape skiing culture both in Austria and around the world.
To mark the milestone, the Museum St. Anton am Arlberg is hosting a special exhibition that explores the club’s origins, major milestones and the people who built its legacy.
The Founding Vision in 1901
Skiclub Arlberg began during a ski tour at the Hospiz St. Christoph. Seven visionary men and one woman — the daughter of the hospice owner — gathered there on a winter day and made a historic decision. They recognized that skiing could transform the Arlberg region socially, culturally and economically.
As a result, they chose to formally establish a club dedicated to the sport.
The following words were recorded in the guest book of the St. Christoph hospice:
“Enchanted by nature, inspired by sport, driven by the need to create a modest meeting place in Arlberg for friends of this noble pastime, the excursionists involved in the impromptu gathering felt compelled to found a Ski Club Arlberg.”
St. Christoph, Jan. 3, 1901
The founding members were:
Club chairman: Carl Schuler
Deputy club chairman: Dr. Rybizka
Club treasurer: Josef Schneider
Club secretary: Oswald Trojer
Club member: Beil, assistant
Club member: med. F. Gerstel
Club member: Liesl Trojer
Club member: Rudolf Schuler
From that moment forward, Ski Club Arlberg began building what would become one of the Alps’ most influential ski communities.
Leadership, Growth and Athletic Success
Over the decades, dedicated leaders strengthened and expanded the club. In total, 16 presidents and numerous officials guided its development. Their commitment helped transform a small gathering of enthusiasts into an internationally respected institution.
To honor that history, the club published a commemorative book for its 125th anniversary. The publication highlights not only leadership milestones but also the athletes who carried the Ski Club Arlberg name onto national and international podiums.
Youth development has always played a central role. Generations of coaches introduced young athletes to skiing in all its disciplines. Because of that long-term commitment, Ski Club Arlberg racers have earned numerous national and international medals.
A Global Community Rooted in Arlberg
Today, Ski Club Arlberg has more than 8,500 members representing 55 countries. While the club remains deeply rooted in Arlberg, its reach extends far beyond Austria.
This international membership reflects both the global appeal of skiing and the enduring reputation of the club itself.
At the same time, the community remains at the heart of Ski Club Arlberg. SCA gatherings take place throughout the Arlberg towns, where members welcome newcomers and discuss future initiatives. In addition, annual highlights such as the Arlberg ski races, SCA Week, and the SCA Summer Weekend draw members back to the region each year.
From Arlberg, they carry the club’s tradition, values and history throughout the world.
After 125 years, the original vision still holds true: a meeting place for friends united by a passion for skiing.
About the Author: Christof Thöny
