Park City, UT – Join members of the Visa Women’s Ski Jumping Team for the annual Join the Journey benefit July 15 in Park City, as they celebrate the recent news that women’s ski jumping will now be an event at the Olympic Winter Games.

On April 6, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced that women’s ski jumping is being added to the 2014 Winter Games program in Sochi, Russia. Ski jumping had been the only discipline in the Summer and Olympic Winter Games that did not allow women to compete.

These elite athletes can now officially follow their dreams and represent the U.S. in Sochi. Women’s Ski Jumping USA, the primary supporting organization for elite U.S. women ski jumpers, is hosting its annual gala benefit from 6 to 10 p.m., Friday, July 15 at a luxurious, $10-million home in Glenwild near Kimball Junction in Park City.

The benefit invites supporters to “Join the Journey” as these women make their historic march toward the 2014 Olympics, which will be the first gender-equal Games in Olympic history.

“Because of the IOC decision, countries are now putting more resources toward their women’s ski jumping teams and we can’t let the U.S. fall behind,” said Deedee Corradini, WSJ-USA president. Funds raised at the benefit help pay for the team’s coach, travel, and training expenses.

The Visa Women’s Ski Jumping Team is one of the top-ranked squads in the world, and the next three years are crucial leading up to Sochi. Members of the team will participate in major international competitions including the 2013 World Championship in Val di Fiemme, Italy, and the inaugural World Cup circuit beginning in the 2011-12 season.

As a special thank you to supporters and friends of women’s ski jumping, the event ticket price has been lowered this year to $150 per person, down from $200.

“We wanted to give back to the community of people who have given to us over the years. They have made a difference and we want this to be a great celebration,” said Beth Moon, event coordinator.

Highlights of the evening include “Around the World”-style gourmet food from among the finest of Park City’s culinary scene; wine, beer and opening cocktails.

A live and silent auction will feature myriad unique and luxury items, amazing trips, ski equipment, and special memorabilia.

To purchase tickets go to www.wsjusa.com.