Swiss snowboarder Sophie Hediger, a competitor in the 2022 Winter Olympics, tragically lost her life in an avalanche at the age of 26, the Swiss Ski Federation announced on Tuesday.
The incident occurred on Monday in Arosa, Switzerland. According to Graubünden police, Hediger had ventured off a closed piste and was subsequently buried under snow. Rescue workers managed to recover her from the avalanche and attempted resuscitation efforts, but their efforts were unsuccessful.
Hediger was a talented athlete specializing in snowboard cross. She had achieved significant success this season, securing two podium finishes in the World Cup. She had been aiming for a medal at the upcoming World Championships, set to take place in March on home soil in Engadin.
At the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing, Hediger made her debut in snowboard cross, finishing in 19th place. Her determination and skill had made her a prominent figure in the sport.
Walter Reusser, President of the Swiss Ski Federation, expressed the profound grief felt across the skiing community. “For the Swiss ski family, the tragic death of Sophie Hediger casts a dark shadow over these Christmas days,” he stated. “We are deeply saddened and will always keep Sophie’s memory alive.”
Hediger’s untimely passing marks a devastating loss for the world of snow sports and leaves a lasting impact on all who knew her.
