snorovr Posted April 4, 2006 Report Posted April 4, 2006 From the Valdez Heli-Skiing Guides website. "4/3/06 Doug Coombs was killed in the mountains today. This afternoon we learned of the tragic accident in La Grave, France. We are still gathering details and will inform you as we learn more. Words can't describe the loss his friends feel now. His impact on Alaska Heli Skiing, Alpine Guiding, and just plain fun-hogging is immeasurable. Send your thoughts and prayers to Emily and David Douglas Coombs. They will need your support and love for a long time. Sincerely, Don Sharaf, Doug Workman, Scott Raynor, Kirsten Kremer, Paul Turecki, Jeff Zell, Eric Henderson, and the many others who had the privelege to work, ski, and smile with Doug over the years." Doug was always one of my favorite riders to watch in videos. When someone this experienced is lost in the mountains, it forces me to reflect upon how dangerous our sport can really be. Just the other day Timeless was asking if it would be cool to go to Utah alone. I was glad to see that everyone told him to stay inbounds and he should be fine. I've skied alone quite a bit, and no doubt have gone through some places I probably shouldn't have without a buddy. Coombs was most likely with a group, and the worst still occured. A wakeup call to many. He will forever be remembered by many riders. Thanks for the years of inspiration Doug. Quote
righthandedlefty Posted April 4, 2006 Report Posted April 4, 2006 NOt sure whom he is off the top of my head. Real sad news though, Def keep his family in the prayers. I know I personally hate riding along,never know what could happen no matter what your skill level is... Quote
Ski Posted April 4, 2006 Report Posted April 4, 2006 One of the classiest guys ever... Just posted on skiracing.com: Extreme skiing legend Doug Coombs was killed in an avalanche in La Grave, France, early Monday. The news was originally reported on the Web site for Valdez Heli-Ski Guides, the company Coombs founded in 1993. Coombs also founded Steep Skiing Camps Worldwide, and was a two-time winner of the Valdez Extreme Skiing Championships. "Words can't describe the loss his friends feel now," read a statement on www.valdezheliskiguides.com. "His impact on Alaska heli-skiing, alpine guiding and just plan fun-hogging is immeasurable." A former racer for Montana State, Coombs moved to Jackson, Wyoming, and worked as a geologist before embarking on the big-mountain freeskiing scene. An internationally certified (IFMGA/UIAGM) mountain guide, Coombs spent his seasons guiding in the Tetons, Alaska, Greenland and France. He had guided everything from first descents down steep powder runs to technical testpieces such as the Grand Teton?s Ford Coulior. On his Web site, dougcoombs.com, he relayed some thoughts on the spectacular setting of La Grave: "When I first arrived at La Grave and stared at the majestic glaciated peak of La Meije (13,065 ft.), I imagined endless ski runs that would last a lifetime! After 5 seasons in La Grave, I am still discovering new descents off the lift served peak." Coombs leaves behind his wife, Emily, and young son, David Douglas. Quote
snorovr Posted April 4, 2006 Author Report Posted April 4, 2006 One of the classiest guys ever... Absolutely agreed. My opinion is that at present the skiing community is being represented by individuals like Tanner Hall and Bode Miller. While I think that both are great athletes and contribute a ton to the community, I think their personalities leave alot to be desired over guys like Doug Coombs. Any video I've ever seen him in he is modest about his accomplishments, and is always giving out tips to improve your skiing. His posters are some of the best in skiing photography. A huge loss... Quote
Dan- Posted April 5, 2006 Report Posted April 5, 2006 Wow that sucks... Coombs was an awsome skier and a great guy. He was the tour guide for the snowboard crew up in alaska for one of my videos. I believe he owned Tsunia lodge, or atleast operated out of it.. Sad day in the snow sports Quote
Dan- Posted April 6, 2006 Report Posted April 6, 2006 2 amazing skier's and riders in the past 2-3 years. Craig Kelly, an amazing snowboarder was killed in a slide in 04. He was an amazing person, always in the Backcountry pushing the sport further and further every time he rode. When his life was taken in a slide the whole snowboarding community was shocked, and in disbelief, and also very sad to see such a person live the sport. Even though i snowboard, i still know who Doug Coombs was, and what a wonderful person he was. An amazing skier, always pushing the limits of what was ridable/skiable as far as steepness goes. He will be missed for years to come. R.I.P Doug Coombs, the skiing and riding communities will miss you Quote
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