Top Paralympic skier to speak at Dia Del Sol fashion show benefit
By Kristina Houck
Although she has modeled at the fundraising event in the past, this year Katrina Schaber is dropping the designer duds and sharing her success on the slopes during the Beach and Country Guild’s 45th annual Dia Del Sol on Oct. 14, which benefits United Cerebral Palsy of San Diego County.
“It’s been amazing to be involved with Dia Del Sol,” said Katrina, who has cerebral palsy. From competing in local ski races to the World Cup stage, Katrina brought home six medals this season, including one gold. “It helps raise awareness about cerebral palsy and helps raise funds so that United Cerebral Palsy can continue to do research.”
Katrina first skied when she was just 4 years old. Now 17, she recently placed in the top 10 in the World Cup circuit — her first endeavor — and is now ranked third in the United States Paralympic Alpine Skiing Women’s Standing Division.
“It’s just been crazy this past season,” said Katrina, a senior at Canyon Crest Academy. “It’s been a whirlwind of adventures, and every time I click into my skis, I have a feeling I can do more and I can push it more.”
With her eyes now on the Pyeongchang 2018 Paralympic Winter Games, Katrina is taking time off from studying and training to share her story during Dia Del Sol.
“She is a huge proponent of Dia Del Sol,” said guild president Kristin Baldi. “She says wonderful things about the guild and how being involved in the fashion show gave her the confidence to pursue her dream. Now she’s on the Paralympic team and has won a bunch of medals.”
The guild has supported United Cerebral Palsy for 45 years. From assisting someone in finding their first job, to creating support groups for families, United Cerebral Palsy’s mission is to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people affected by cerebral palsy.
“It is such a great organization,” Baldi said. “They are really focused on the cause and really impact people’s lives. Katrina is just one example of the many they have impacted.”
With a “Speakeasy” theme, this year’s event will feature a gourmet luncheon, silent and live auctions, and a fashion show with several local designers and boutiques, including C. Wonder, Halston, Maggie B, Mister B, Max Mara, Nicole Miller, Scotch and Soda, and Ted Baker. There will also be a children’s fashion show, featuring children with cerebral palsy.
Live auction items include a six-night stay at a Baja California resort, seven-night Mediterranean cruise, a jet flight and wine tasting experience in Napa Valley, dinner for six prepared by Rancho Santa Fe Firefighters at the station, a cocktail soiree for 20, and more.
“You get to have fun and you get to do something good,” Baldi said.
Dia Del Sol takes place from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Oct. 14 at The Grand Del Mar, 5300 Grand Del Mar Court, San Diego.
Tickets cost $150 for general seating and $250 for Champagne Circle seating.
Attendees who purchase tickets by Sept. 19 will receive two entries for door prizes. Those who register after Sept. 19 but by Oct. 5 will receive one entry.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit
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