A Dad dies at La Clusaz
A Dad dies at La Clusaz
Published : 17-Apr-2014 09:23
As widely reported in UK media, Jeremy Salvesen was killed a week ago after colliding with a rock whilst skiing at La Clusaz, in the French Alps.He was, apparently, descending the 2km long Blue run on La Balme, below the Bergerie restaurant.
I've left it a week before commenting and think it's worth including the statement from the family here :-
"We are devastated by Jeremy's death as a result of catastrophic injuries in a tragic accident in the French Alps while he was skiing on a beautiful day with a large family group.
"We all take comfort from knowing that he was doing something he loved with a big smile on his face.
"As always, Jeremy was pushing himself to the limit. His life has been a wonderful adventure and we treasure all our memories of him.
"We want to thank everyone at La Clusaz and at Annecy who did everything they could for Jeremy and in particular, we want to thank the expert medical professionals who cared for him."
My family and I also spent much of last Thursday on the La Balme Blue, although we were unaware of the accident until the Friday evening. The hill was pretty quiet, and we had noticed a couple of other groups of British skiers amongst a handful of locals.
It was indeed a perfect day for skiing with the family, and my youngest was gaining confidence (and a little technique) with every run. Shortly after midday, as my son and I clicked into our skis, we were stood next to a Scott and his son doing exactly the same - and having pretty much the same conversation. I said something suitably inane like "nice day for it" and we exchanged grins.
We set off first, and eventually stopped for a break in the cafe at the bottom. From what I understand now of the timings, we were getting chips as the helicopter came in and by the time we were out and up the gondola again it was long gone.
It was just a beautiful, ordinary, skiing day like many other terrific days I've spent there in previous years.
We noticed that Friday was quieter but had no idea why until we found out about the accident over dinner, and we found out Jeremy was Scottish this week.
He was the same age as me, doing exactly what I was doing, skiing with his son, same time, same place.
And there was me bemoaning the fact I've had a powder-free season...
Seize the day, folks. It's later than you think.
Jeremy Salvesen, a father-of-four from Elie in Fife, Picture: Lloyd Images
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