02/13/2026
On the heels of the Winter Olympics, we’re excited to announce our first film in our inaugural Spring Screening Series at Gravity Haus Truckee. Champions of the Golden Valley tells the story of a vibrant, unexpected ski culture in the snowy peaks of Afghanistan. Directed by Ben Sturgulewski, produced by Katie Stjernholm & Baktash Ahadi and executed produced by Executive produced by Noble Peace Prize Laureate Malala Yousafzai.
The screening will be followed by a remote Q&A with filmmakers Ben and Katie. Seats are limited, grab your tickets here: https://givebutter.com/goldenvalley
Champions of the Golden Valley follows Alishah Farhang, a ski coach who narrowly missed becoming Afghanistan’s first Winter Olympian — and instead returned home to build a grassroots ski movement. In the remote mountains of Bamyan, he organizes a one-of-a-kind race where young athletes compete on handmade wooden skis. The film explores themes of unity, joy, and resilience, showing how skiing becomes a powerful vehicle for building community and hope.
Champions of the Golden Valley has emerged as one of the most decorated documentaries — garnering 42 Jury Prizes and 20 Grand Prizes at film festivals around the world.
