Skiing mourns the death of a famous downhill skier

Roland Collombin, one of Switzerland's most celebrated alpine skiers, has died at the age of 75 after a two-year battle with cancer. The Swiss ski community mourns the loss of a legend who left an indelible mark on the sport during the 1970s. Collombin passed away on Friday following complications from both laryngeal and liver cancers. His death comes nearly five decades after he made his name as a dominant force in downhill skiing. Born in Valais, Switzerland, Collombin rose to prominence in the early 1970s, becoming a household name among fans of the sport. He was known for his daring style and fearless approach on the slopes, which often led to spectacular performances but also dramatic crashes. One such incident occurred in 1975 when he suffered a severe accident during a race in Val-d'Isère, France. This crash ended his professional career and became so infamous that the location where it happened was later named “Bosse à Collombin” in his honor. Collombin’s most memorable achievement came during the 1972 Winter Olympics in Sapporo, Japan, where he secured silver in the downhill event. At that time, he finished behind his longtime rival and friend, Bernhard Russi, who would go on to become a prominent figure in Swiss skiing as well. Despite this setback, Collombin continued to excel in international competitions. Between 1973 and 1974, he claimed the overall World Cup title in downhill racing, adding eight World Cup victories to his record—all in the downhill discipline. His legacy extends beyond his competitive achievements. Collombin was admired not just for his skill but also for his resilience and determination. After retiring from competition, he remained active in the skiing world, often participating in charity events and public appearances. In recent years, he had been battling health issues, first dealing with laryngeal cancer before being diagnosed with liver cancer. Despite these challenges, he maintained a positive outlook and expressed hope for recovery even as his condition worsened. Bernhard Russi, who had recently met with Collombin about three weeks prior to his death, shared some final thoughts about his former rival. According to Russi, their meeting took place under difficult circumstances, yet Collombin appeared to be in relatively good spirits. “He made a relatively good impression,” Russi said, reflecting on their encounter. However, he also noted that Collombin had mentioned making one last attempt to overcome his illness. This statement underscores the courage and resolve that defined Collombin throughout his life. The passing of Roland Collombin marks the end of an era for Swiss skiing. As one of the pioneers of the sport during its golden age, he inspired countless athletes who followed in his footsteps. His contributions to the sport were recognized not only through his numerous accolades but also through the lasting impact he had on the culture and spirit of alpine skiing in Switzerland. Even today, his name remains synonymous with excellence, bravery, and the relentless pursuit of victory. As the skiing community comes together to remember Collombin, many are reflecting on the moments that defined his career and the lessons he imparted to future generations. His story serves as a reminder of the risks inherent in elite sports and the strength required to face adversity. While his physical presence will be missed, his influence continues to resonate within the world of skiing and beyond. The legacy of Roland Collombin lives on, etched into the history of Swiss sports and the hearts of those who knew him.