Originally created as a means of transport in the far northern regions, snow sports gradually became democratised until they became a highly popular leisure activity in our modern society. Today, many French men and women cannot imagine a year without a short stay in the heart of the Alps or the Pyrenees.
However, for many years, people with reduced mobility were excluded from these activities due to a lack of accessibility. Resorts were indeed poorly adapted, and the learning options offered for these activities were entirely inadequate. But times have changed—resorts have gradually transformed, and policies within ski schools have evolved... The Handiski activity was born!
To introduce you to this activity, we turned to one of the pioneers of Handiski in France: the École de Ski Français (ESF). Founded by Georges Blanchon in 1937, the ESF is now the largest ski school in the world... A total of 250 schools conducting over 800,000 annual test passes for 2,000,000 students!
Below is the "Q&A Session" conducted with Mr. Jean-Paul Chambettaz, President of the association "Sports et Handicap en Briançonnais" and a ski instructor at the ESF Serre Chevalier 1400 Villeneuve, resulting from this interview:
Yumping.fr — What type of audience is the Handiski activity aimed at?
Jean-Paul Chambettaz.- Handiski is for anyone with a disability, whether major or minor: tetraplegia, paraplegia, double lower limb amputation, polio, visually impaired or blind individuals...
Yumping.fr — Does Handiski require specialised equipment?
JPC.- Yes, specialised equipment is necessary, and it will vary depending on the disability. The person concerned should first contact their chosen school to ensure they have the most suitable equipment.
Yumping.fr note: Generally, we distinguish between:
- Uniski or biski: Practised standing.
- Ski chair or Nordic sled: For seated practice.
- Guiding: Practised standing, mainly for visually impaired or blind individuals.
JPC.- Yes, training for professionals overseeing this activity is mandatory. They learn how to use adapted equipment and the specialised approach to certain disabilities.
Yumping.fr — What are the prices applied?
JPC.- The prices are the same as for standard private lessons. Additionally, equipment rental and passes are free.
Yumping.fr — What feedback, positive or negative, have you received from people who have tried this activity or their companions?
JPC.- The feedback is always very positive, highlighting the commitment of the entire Serre-Chevalier community.
Yumping.fr — Why is it important for you to offer this activity at your school?
JPC.- People with disabilities should never feel excluded. With the ESF, they have the choice to ski, discover, and share the thrill of gliding.
Yumping.fr — Is Handiski only available at your ESF Serre Chevalier Villeneuve school, or is it also offered at other ESF centres in France?
JPC.- Handiski has been practised at ESF Serre Chevalier 1400 Villeneuve for over 20 years. We were among the first in France to offer this sport. Since then, the activity has expanded, and most ESF schools now provide these options.
Yumping.fr — What does it mean for a school like yours to be part of the ESF?
JPC.- It is first and foremost a mark of quality and values we have upheld for many years.
Yumping.fr — Thank you for your time and the quality of your responses.
So don’t hesitate—the season is approaching! And now you know, whatever your profile, there’s always an option tailored to your desires!
