St. Moritz Ski School for the Blind
“On the left ski, watch out for the bump, and on the right ski”, Kelvin's instructions are forward-looking and point the way. His family no longer actively ski. That's why he is taking part in the ski camp for the blind with many other children. The ski camp is one of the programs offered by the first Swiss ski school for the blind.
In collaboration with the Ticino Group for the Blind and Visually Impaired, the St. Moritz Ski School began training ski instructors for the blind and visually impaired in 1981. The school was a novelty in the Swiss winter sports scene, which inspired other ski resorts to follow suit.
Instructors learn blind
As individual as the students at the ski school for the blind are, the instructors' training is just as varied. “We ski with simulation goggles or blind ourselves so that we are prepared for all situations,” says Claudia Blaser, head of the St. Moritz Ski School for the Blind. A particular focus of the instructors' training is the safety of the learners on the slopes and clear commands. They also practise guiding with or without a radio.
The instructors have been making it possible for the blind and visually impaired to explore the Upper Engadin ski areas for over 30 years. For a winter sports area for everyone.
From children's ski camps to competition preparation
Today, 28 blind ski instructors teach at the St. Moritz Ski School. All age groups can benefit from this visionary offer; the youngest child in the ski school for the blind was just 4 years old and the oldest student 72. The offer is also tailored to this: from the first snow experiences to professional level.
Alpine Ski School for the Blind
Private lessons are taught professionally and personally. Relatives are instructed in guiding. The motto is “Accompany, guide and teach”.
Ski camp ski school for the blind
For many years, a ski camp for up to 25 children over 7 days has been organized for the Sonnenberg Baar School for the Blind and Visually Impaired.
Nordic skiing school for the blind
Cross-country skiing for the visually impaired is also possible at the St. Moritz ski school. On request, we offer lessons by our specialized team of instructors.
Red Legends Merchandise
Support the ski school for the blind
Get your hands on the exclusive, limited edition Moncler anniversary sweater “Guardia Grischa”. Part of the proceeds will go directly to the ski school for the blind.
Would you prefer to make a direct donation?
Snow sports lessons for the blind and visually impaired are financed by a fund that has been based on donations since 1982. We would be grateful for your donation.
Fund for snow sports lessons for the blind and visually impaired St. Moritz
Via Stredas 14
7500 St. Moritz
IBAN CH80 0022 1221 8677 5001 A, Bank UBS Switzerland AG, CH-8098 Zürich
