The Swiss snowboarding community is in shock after the sudden death of 26-year-old Sophie Hediger, a talented member of the national snowboard cross team.
Snowboarding Prodigy Caught in Avalanche
Hediger was caught in an avalanche on Monday at the popular mountain resort of Arosa, located west of Davos in eastern Switzerland.
The Swiss-Ski federation confirmed the tragic news, leaving the snowboarding world in mourning.
A Dark Shadow Over the Christmas Holidays
“For the Swiss Ski family, the tragic death of Sophie Hediger has cast a dark shadow over the Christmas holiday,” said Swiss-Ski sport CEO Walter Reusser in a statement. “We are immeasurably sad. We will keep an honourable memory of Sophie.”
Born in Horgen, Hediger spent a lot of time in Arosa, where she developed a passion for freeriding – a hobby that ultimately took her life. “Her life there, freeriding, a beloved hobby, came to a tragic, sudden and far too early end,” the federation said.
Rising Star in the Snowboarding World
Hediger’s snowboarding career was on the rise, with two World Cup podium places secured in the 2023-24 season. Her best result was a second place in St Moritz in January. She also represented Switzerland at the 2022 Winter Olympics in China.
A Life Full of Adventure
Sophie’s Instagram posts reveal a love for travel and adventure. Earlier this year, she visited Sydney and Brisbane, capturing breathtaking moments from her journeys.
Respecting the Family’s Wishes
Out of respect for Hediger’s family and partner, Swiss-Ski has chosen not to disclose further details about her death. Our thoughts are with them during this difficult time.