Farewell to a Hahnenkamm Legend
The international skiing community is mourning the loss of one of downhill racing's most charismatic figures. Swiss skier Roland Collombin, who claimed victory on the Streif in both 1973 and 1974, has passed away at the age of 75.
Roland Collombin was one of the defining figures in alpine ski racing in the early 1970s. He celebrated eight World Cup victories, all in downhill, and won silver at the 1972 Winter Olympics in Sapporo, finishing behind only his Swiss team-mate Bernhard Russi. On Friday, his daughter Emmanuelle announced the sad news of the skiing legend's passing.
The Valais native also made history at the Hahnenkamm. Although he competed in the Streif Downhill only five times, he emerged victorious on two occasions. His 1974 triumph saw him set a new course record of 2:03.29 minutes. Two victories from just five appearances is an extraordinary record and one that perfectly reflects his reputation as one of the sport's most exceptional downhill racers.
Even after retiring from professional skiing, Roland Collombin remained closely connected to Kitzbühel, returning on several occasions, including to take part in the Toni Sailer Golf Memorial. In 2023, exactly fifty years after his first Streif victory, he and French slalom great Jean-Noël Augert were honoured as Hahnenkamm Legends of the Year. On that occasion, K.S.C. President Michael Huber paid tribute to Collombin's fearless approach: "Roland Collombin was to the Alpine World Cup in the 1970s what the Crazy Canucks were in the 1980s – a fearless daredevil and a true downhill specialist. The notoriously demanding conditions on the Streif undoubtedly suited his character."
Only a few weeks ago, his long-time friend and former team-mate Bernhard Russi had met with him. Speaking to the Swiss newspaper Blick after Collombin's death, Russi said: "He seemed to be in relatively good form. But he also told me he had one more chance to beat the cancer."
With Roland Collombin, Kitzbühel Ski Club loses not only a two-time Streif champion and Hahnenkamm Legend, but also an athlete whose courage, character and remarkable achievements helped shape the legend of the Streif for generations. Our heartfelt condolences go to his family, friends and all those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Photo © Mohacci, EXPA/Hans Groder, Foto Flash
