Ski racing pioneer Beattie dies

The plaque that rested for years on ski icon Bob Beattie’s desk was inscribed with a matter-of-fact motto: It can be done. All-too-fitting for the ski racing pioneer who helped launch the World Cup circuit more than 50 years ago and was part of the commentary crew that called one of the most thrilling Alpine races at the 1976 Winter Games. Beattie died Sunday in Fruita, Colo., af- ter dealing with various health issues. He was 85. Beattie’s career included stints as coach of the U.S. ski team and at the University of Colorado, where he won a pair of national titles.