Peterson, 29, picked up the nickname Speedy" because he resembled the cartoon character Speedy Racer due to having a big helmet on his head. He was said to have been a colourful personality on the slopes and his career reached its peak when he managed to secure a silver medal at the Vancouver Winter Games.

The International Festival of Flight marked the first International Ski Federation (FIS) competition of the season in North America and attracted some of the top competitors from across the globe. Athletes competing in the event dedicated the first competition to Peterson.

After a troubled childhood where Peterson was sexually abused and lost his five-year-old sister he went on to suffer from depression. Months before the Turin Olympics Peterson also witnessed his friend shoot themselves dead and therefore his Olympics were marred by the affects of this.

Peterson called 911 on Monday before shooting himself, and was subsequently found dead on Monday night between Salt Lake City and Park City in Lambs Canyon. A suicide note was found at the scene but police declined to reveal what was said.

At the International Festival the new World Cup format was utilized for the first time and fans worldwide were able to watch a live webcast of the event. The two winners were Two-time Olympian Emily Cook and U.S. Champion Dylan Ferguson.

Dedicating this brilliant event to Paterson, such a loved athlete, was a fitting way to pay tribute to his life and career.

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