By Kathryn Adams
Astounding technological advances in adaptive ski kit mean that nowadays, anyone of limited mobility can attack the slopes alongside able-bodied or elite para-athlete skiers. Many ski schools and rental companies offer adaptive skiing lessons and sit-ski rental but, when you add the cost of your ski pass to the package, it can make for a very expensive outing.
Our region has a growing number of charitable associations helping to make adaptive skiing more equitable.
One such organization is Verbier4All. Formed in 2019, Verbier4All wants to make the mountains of Verbier truly accessible to adaptive skiers on all levels whatever their ability, whatever their age. The association is actively building a library of equipment befitting one of the most prestigious ski resorts in the world.
Verbier4’All’s sit-skis (rigs) can be borrowed for free for use in the resort whose lift operator, Téléverbier, is backing the effort and working away behind the scenes to make its lifts and facilities more accessible.
They’re a friendly team at Verbier4All and a mix of French and English speakers. To join in the fun, you don’t need to be a member of the association – all you need to do is contact them to see if they have a rig to suit your needs, answer some questions and sign a disclaimer. Many adaptive skiers have family members or friends who can pilot and accompany them but, in the event that this is not the case, Verbier4All will try and match you up with a volunteer pilot and buddy to take you out.
All ski trips take a bit of planning, and adaptive ski trips even more, so make sure you contact the association well in advance to assess your needs, register as a ‘User’ and organize your visit.
This year the association has 4 rigs available:
A Tessier Tempo Uniski (photo above)
Targeted at adaptive skiers with a mobility deficiency in their lower body, this sit-ski enables high-level independent skiing. Easy to employ and steer, it favors quick learning and rapid progress.
A Tessier Tempo Duo
A little treasure which enables partially dependent to completely dependent skiers to hit the slopes.
A Tessier Tempo Dualski
This rig offers partially independent to completely dependent skiers the possibility of ski enjoyably and comfortably.
An Enabling Technologies Dynamique
An out and out performer designed to create a pathway to independence; you’re sure to love the lightweight and effortless performance!
So, if you would like to try out adaptive skiing, give them a call:
Tel: +41 (0)79 314 17 96
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
https://www.facebook.com/verbier4all/
https://www.verbier4all.ch/en/
https://www.instagram.com/verbier4all/
COVID-19
Verbier4All applies Covid-19 procedures in accordance with Federal Office of Public Health guidelines. These are constantly changing and the centers adapt as needed.
Famille Sarassin
Other organizations
Some of the many other organizations offering adaptive skiing in our region are listed below. Some offer activities, some lend or rent equipment, some require you to become a member for a small amount. Just look around for the one that appeals to you.
https://capdenho.ch – Pays d’Enhaut region
http://www.grsa.ch/activites/section-alpin – Swiss Romande branch for blind and seeing-impaired skiers
http://www.handiconcept.ch – Villars, Champery, Les Diablerets
https://www.differences-solidaires.ch – various resorts/ski camps in Zinal
https://www.gotandem.info – Villars
https://www.loisirspourtous.ch – Châtel-St Denis, tailored activities or equipment rental
https://cfrge.ch/sports-dhiver – Geneva-based
https://www.handisport-ge.ch – Geneva-based – only for skiers with a mental deficiency
https://www.plusport.ch/en Umbrella organization – all regions
Familly with Igor
