Utah 2034 and the Utah Olympic Legacy Foundation are mourning the death of Colin Hilton, the longtime President and CEO of the Utah Olympic Legacy Foundation, who died at his home on August 21, 2026. Hilton, a central figure in Utah's winter sports history, spent more than two decades ensuring the legacy of the 2002 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games remained a thriving resource for the state's athletes and communities.
A Legacy of Olympic Stewardship
According to a statement from the Utah Olympic Legacy Foundation (UOLF) released on August 22, 2026, Hilton's leadership was defined by a belief that the value of Olympic venues was measured by their continued use by athletes, coaches, families, and communities rather than mere preservation. Under his direction, the Utah Olympic Park, Utah Olympic Oval, and Soldier Hollow Nordic Center became enduring centers for sport, recreation, and community use.
Impact on Utah Sports
Hilton's influence extended beyond venue management into the structural development of regional sports. The Utah Olympic Legacy Foundation reported that Hilton's leadership within the Park City community helped facilitate the creation of the Park City Ski and Snowboard, an entity that combined eight Wasatch Back ski clubs to impact sport development at the Utah Olympic Park.
Natalie Gochnour, Utah Olympic Legacy Foundation Board Chair, said in a statement that Hilton's leadership benefited the entire state as he served as a steward of Utah's living Olympic legacy. She noted that Hilton ensured the state's Olympic imprint remained active, relevant, and connected to the communities it serves.
Contributions to Utah 2034
Hilton was also a significant figure in the preparations for the upcoming 2034 Games. Brad Wilson, CEO of Utah 2034, said in a statement on August 29, 2026, that he worked closely with Hilton to prepare the state to welcome the world back to Utah in 2034. Wilson noted that Hilton's knowledge, energy, and commitment made the organization's work better.
International Influence
Fraser Bullock, President and Executive Chair of Utah 2034, highlighted Hilton's ability to elevate Utah's legacy on a global scale. Bullock, who described Hilton as a dear friend for 27 years, noted that Hilton played a key role in helping Utah win the bid for the 2034 Games.
Bullock stated that Hilton excelled at bringing real value to communities and used his position to connect national and international winter sports leaders, thereby strengthening the Utah 2034 team and adding value to all sports.
Leadership Transition
Following Hilton's death, the Utah Olympic Legacy Foundation Board has appointed Calum Clark to serve as the acting CEO and President. According to the foundation, the leadership team and general managers remain in place, and the organization's operations and work will continue without interruption.
Personal Tributes
Calum Clark, the Chief Operating Officer of the Utah Olympic Legacy Foundation, expressed deep personal grief over the loss of his colleague and mentor. Clark stated he was struggling to find the right words for the loss, describing Hilton as a leader and a friend. He noted that he learned an enormous amount from Hilton and that many people's lives and careers were improved by Hilton's presence.
The Utah Olympic Legacy Foundation stated that its immediate focus is on supporting Hilton's family and the UOLF team as they process the loss. The family has requested space and privacy at this time, and information regarding a service will be shared when it becomes available.
