Back to the roots

The legendary Patrouille des Glaciers is the toughest of all ski mountaineering races. Devised by the army as a challenge for its soldiers, the contest is now open to all. Teams race in “patrols” of three participants. Séverine Pont-Combe has won in the women’s category twice, setting a course record each time: in 2006 with Catherine Mabillard and Gabrielle Magnenat, and in 2008 with Nathalie Etzensperger and Gabrielle Magnenat. She has also twice achieved podium finishes in the Pierra Menta race in French Savoie, one of the toughest competitions alongside the Patrouille – and won World Championships and many other races, too. We meet her today on her home ground – at the “Rando Parc” in Crans-Montana, where skiers of all ages can be inspired by Séverine’s passion for ski mountaineering. Her goal, together with her husband, Nicolas Combe, has been to make ski touring accessible to all. “We’ve benefited from the support of Crans-Montana Tourism, the lift company and Crans-Montana Exploitation,” says Séverine. “It’s thanks to these collaborations that we have been able to make our dream come true.”

She has a few tips for beginners: “Equipment should be light; it doesn’t have to be professional, but it needs to be suitable.” It’s best to start off renting equipment in order to try it out and find out what you feel most comfortable with. And the key thing, above all, is to “do it gently, be in touch with your body and enjoy the experience.” Ideally, begin with the blue itineraries, suitable for all levels, before tackling tougher ascents. “Otherwise, it might stop being a pleasure.” Children, too, can enjoy ski touring. The Combes have two daughters who have been joining them on ski tours from a very young age. In the village, Séverine and her husband offer a training session for children every Wednesday, which is highly popular.