Stein Eriksen, the Norwegian great who helped usher in modern skiing with his graceful style, died Sunday at his home in Park City, Utah. He was 88.
His death was confirmed by Deer Valley Resort, where Eriksen served as director of skiing for more than 35 years.
Eriksen had the perfect hair, the perfect form and typically the perfect line down the course. He rose to prominence at the 1952 Olympics in his hometown of Oslo when he captured gold in the giant slalom and silver in the slalom. Two years later, he won three gold medals at the world championships in Are, Sweden.
The charismatic Eriksen became the face of the sport and portrayed it in a new, exciting way.