The Francis Piche Invitational race commemorates the life of local figure Francis Piche, who founded the Piche's Ski Shop and promoted the sport of skiing in the Lakes Region. Not only was he an accomplished skier and racer, but he also coached local youth and worked at the Belknap Recreation Area (now Gunstock Mountain Resort) in the late 1930's. After returning home from WWII in 1945 he ran his shop on nights and weekends and was active in the local skiing groups.

The race, originally called the Thompson Trophy, was named in honor of Francis Piche in 1995.