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Sylvain Saudan, revered as one of the greatest skiers of all time, passed away peacefully on July 14th in Les Houches, France, at the age of 87. Renowned as a master of extreme skiing, Saudan continually pushed the boundaries of what was thought possible on skis. His courage, determination, and passion for the sport served as an inspiration to many around the world.
“I don’t live for the mountain. I couldn’t live without it. I live with it.”
Saudan’s love affair with the mountains began early. He started skiing at three years old and quickly demonstrated a natural aptitude for the sport. By 1961, at 25, he had earned the Swiss ski instructor’s certificate and soon after embarked on a global journey, skiing and mountaineering in some of the planet’s most remote and challenging locations.
He is perhaps best remembered for his groundbreaking descent of the Spencer Couloir on the Aiguille de Blaitière in 1967. At that time, the Spencer Couloir, a steep and narrow chute, was deemed unskiable. Saudan’s descent was a landmark achievement in extreme skiing, paving the way for skiers to challenge some of the Alps’ most difficult and dangerous terrains.
Saudan’s flawless navigation of the 1,000-meter-long Spencer Couloir, with its over 50-degree slope and numerous rocky obstacles, was a testament to his extraordinary skill and bravery. This feat remains one of the most challenging ski descents in the Alps, now attempted by experienced skiers inspired by Saudan’s pioneering spirit.
Undeterred by challenges and setbacks, Saudan continued to pursue his passion. In 1982, he became the first person to ski down 3,000 meters of Gasherbrum I, an 8,000-meter peak, solidifying his place in the annals of skiing history.
“When you ski down a corridor, you’re really edging death with each move that is not perfectly controlled. There’s really only one way out: don’t fall down.”
Saudan’s accomplishments earned him a spot in the Guinness Book of Records and a lasting reputation as one of the sport’s legends. Beyond skiing, he was a successful entrepreneur and motivational speaker, his story inspiring countless individuals. His infectious love for the mountains resonated with everyone he encountered.
In 2017, Whistler-Blackcomb resort in Canada honored Saudan by naming a corridor after him—a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to skiing and continually redefined the sport’s limits. Peter Chrzanowski was involved, read his Sudan story here.
Sylvain Saudan’s legacy will continue to inspire generations of skiers. His contributions to the world of skiing are deeply appreciated and will be forever remembered.
RIP Sylvain Saudan, your remarkable impact on skiing will remain in our hearts always.
Photos: Dauphiné Libéré & Peter Chrzanowski
