The news has caused a deep wave of sadness to pass through the community of Chamonix guides… and the wiser population of Chamonix.
This Monday, February 26, Yan Raulet, 60, lost his life while leading a group of four clients, skiing off-piste near Courmayeur.
With poor visibility due to a fog, Yan instructed his clients to be still, while he went ahead in search of a safe route. Exactly how it happened, is at this moment unclear, but Yan fell from a cliff of about 15 to 20 meters. It is possible that he stepped onto snow above the cliff that moved with his presence, taking him over the edge, or maybe, he stepped onto a snow over-hang, that gave way.
The sad news has affected a lot of people, creating a communal sense of grief.
“He was such a kind man and behind the 'mountain bear' exterior, he was truly caring for people and the mountain environment he loved. His friends joked and teased him about his poetic aspirations. He gave us truths like those of René Char, 'He who comes into the world to not disturb anything, deserves neither respect nor patience.’ This says so much about him”. The reflections of his friend and companion, Michel Bordet.
Yan had strong ideas about his profession. He attached great importance to his freedom and independence. In 2014, he actively participated in the launch of the Interprofessional Mountain Union (SIM).
Professionally, Yan Raulet established himself as a font of knowledge. Much of that knowledge was distributed through his website chamonixskiguide.com a constantly updated online resource, which has become one of the most popular info sources that relates to the massif of the Mont-Blanc and other regional massifs.
It is a general consensus between the High Mountain Guides of Chamonix, that Yan was one of the most hard working. He was in such demand, that frequently, he would pass on work to between 15 and 20 other High Mountain Guides.
In the mountains, Yan shone through his knowledge of the terrain and his meticulous attention to security. “He was probably one of the safest. I found it amazing that he died in the mountains. He was a real pro,” says David Autheman, Chamonix guide and videographer.
Outside of Chamonix, Yan was really passionate about the Pyrenees. Also, he was a keen cyclist, undertaking impressive long distance rides. He and a group of friends would hop on their bikes and ride from Chamonix to the Pyrenees. People joked that in recent years, he had become a bit of a 'butcher's dog'. He was in incredible shape for a man of 60.
For the moment, the date and time of a public ceremony in his honour, has not been confirmed.
Le Dauphiné
