Born: 1933
Died: 2022
Biography:
Renée Colliard (24 December 1933 † 15 December 2022) was a Swiss alpine skier who made a significant impact on the sport during her career. Born and raised in Switzerland, she became known for her exceptional skill and determination on the slopes. Colliard’s success as an athlete is highlighted by her Olympic gold medal in slalom in 1956 and her subsequent Swiss national championship in the same discipline. Her achievements solidified her as a trailblazer in women’s skiing and left a lasting legacy in the sport.
Colliard’s journey to Olympic glory was filled with challenges and triumphs. As a student of pharmacy at the University of Geneva, she managed to balance her academic pursuits with her passion for skiing. She trained diligently as a member of the Swiss Women’s Ski Club (SDS), honing her skills on the treacherous slopes of the Swiss Alps. Despite her commitment to both her studies and her sport, it was not until shortly before the start of the 1956 Winter Olympics in Cortina d’Ampezzo that she secured a spot on the Swiss Olympic team. Colliard’s impressive second-place finish in the slalom of the SDS races in Grindelwald earned her a ticket to compete at the highest level.
The Olympic slalom event proved to be a defining moment in Colliard’s career. With start number 1, she stunned her competitors and delivered flawless runs, ultimately claiming the gold medal with a commanding lead of over three seconds. Her victory was not only a personal triumph but also a breakthrough for women’s skiing. Colliard’s exceptional performance showcased the talent and skill of female athletes in a male-dominated sport and inspired generations of aspiring skiers, both in Switzerland and around the world.
Following her Olympic success, Colliard continued to leave her mark on the sport. In the same year, she became the Swiss national champion in slalom, further solidifying her position as a dominant force in alpine skiing. However, her career took an unfortunate turn on February 3, 1958, during the first competition of the World Championships. Colliard suffered a significant crash in the slalom event, resulting in severe injuries that rendered her unable to participate in the remaining races. She endured a ligament strain in her left ankle and a collateral ligament strain in her left knee joint, bringing an abrupt halt to her competitive skiing career.
Despite her forced retirement from professional competition, Colliard’s dedication to the sport remained unwavering. She channeled her passion and expertise into other areas, including her academic background in pharmacy. After completing her studies, she married in Geneva in 1960 and took her husband’s surname. Two years later, she relocated to the winter resort of Montana, where she opened a pharmacy. Colliard’s transition from athlete to entrepreneur further showcased her resilience and versatility.
Renée Colliard’s impact on women’s skiing extends beyond her outstanding achievements on the slopes. Her success transformed perceptions of female athletes and shattered existing stereotypes, inspiring future generations of women in sports. She demonstrated that women could excel in traditionally male-dominated disciplines and paved the way for greater gender equality in alpine skiing. Colliard’s storied career remains a testament to the power of perseverance and the indomitable spirit of women in sports.
Awards:
– Olympic gold medal in slalom (1956)
– Swiss national champion in slalom (1956)