Dawn Patrol

Dawn Patrol

Written by: Taegen Yardley

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When it comes to passion, few stories shine as brightly as that of Dawn Fowler—a skier whose journey in the mountains exemplifies dedication, resilience, and love for the sport. Dawn's relationship with skiing began in her childhood, a time when financial constraints made the sport seem like an elusive dream. 


Yet, her unwavering determination and genuine affection for skiing paved the way for an inspiring narrative that has not only transformed her life but also influenced the design of Renoun’s skis.

A Dream Born on the Slopes


Dawn’s early encounters with skiing were humble, marked by the barriers typical of many aspiring skiers. Growing up, her family couldn’t afford the high costs associated with the sport. But when her father took her out on skis for the first time, something magical happened. As he observed her enthusiasm, he joked, “I guess you got it out of your system.” Dawn, with the spark of a future ski enthusiast in her eyes, responded resolutely, “No, I need a better coat and a lesson.”


Determined to pursue her newfound passion, Dawn realized it would cost her a year’s worth of earnings from her paper route. But the allure of skiing was too strong. This early determination set the stage for a lifelong relationship with the sport.

From Snowbird to Coaching


Dawn’s love for skiing only deepened as she aged. A pivotal moment came when she visited Snowbird in Utah. The experience was transformative, and she found herself not just skiing but coaching at the resort during her college years.


After college, Dawn’s journey continued, balancing a full-time job with her passion for skiing. It was a demanding schedule, but she made the most of every opportunity to spend time in the mountains. When retirement finally came, it ushered in a new chapter as a full-time ski bum—a role she embraced wholeheartedly, never tiring of the sport she loved.

The Challenge of Aging: Finding a Solution


As the years passed, skiing became physically demanding for Dawn. Her knees, once resilient, began to feel the strain of long days on the slopes. The situation eventually led her to undergo a knee replacement surgery. Despite her enduring passion, the physical challenges began to take their toll.


It was during a chairlift ride with a friend that Dawn’s perspective shifted. Her friend, who had been using Renoun skis, spoke enthusiastically about the company’s VibeStop™ technology. According to him, this innovation significantly reduced fatigue and discomfort, making skiing more enjoyable and sustainable.

Dawn Fowler holding Renoun Citadel 106 skis in Japan
Credit - Dawn Fowler

Inspired by this revelation, Dawn reached out to Renoun with a special request. She wanted a pair of powder skis tailored to her needs—a shorter version of the Citadel 107, perfectly sized for her. Her request wasn’t just about custom dimensions; it was about enhancing her skiing experience, allowing her to continue enjoying the sport she loved without compromising her comfort.




A Dream Realized


Known for its commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, Renoun took Dawn’s request to heart. After much anticipation, the company created a new version of the Citadel 107, in a 163cm length, specifically designed for her. When Dawn received the call, she could hardly believe it. She recalled, “I even got a call from Cyrus, and thought this can’t be real.”


For Dawn, it was the realization of a long-held dream—a chance to continue skiing with renewed comfort and joy.

Citadel 107 skis stuck into a Glacier
Credit - Renoun

Conclusion: Where Passion and Innovation Converge


Dawn Fowler’s story is a remarkable journey of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of a dream. From her humble beginnings to her lifelong commitment to skiing, her journey illustrates the profound impact of dedication and love for a sport.


As Dawn continues to carve her path through the snow, her story serves as an inspiration to all who dream of conquering the slopes. At Renoun, we are honored to have played a part in this journey and remain dedicated to supporting skiers like Dawn, whose passion and resilience redefine what’s possible on the mountain.

Ski like Dawn with the Citadel 107: