Snow kiter collides with a car
Snow kiting is a sport that is growing in popularity across the Alps, but as with all winter sports, it doesn't come without its risks. Last weekend, on the Col de Lauteret (2058m), a popular spot with snow kiters, one unfortunate chap ended his day colliding with a passing car!
Whilst the area is perfect for the sport with plentiful snow and regular wind, the downside is that the busy Route National 91 to Italy passes right through the middle of it! According to Johann Civel, a local kite instructor who witnessed the accident, the victim appeared to be a fairly competent kiter, having pulled off a couple of grabs just before the collision. However, he hadn't seen that the main road cut right across the slope and promptly landed on the bonnet of a passing car. Suffering multiple, but thankfully, minor injuries, he was taken to Briancon hospital for further medical assistance.
This is the first such accident to occur on the col de Lauteret in the instructors memory, as since 2000, kite equipment has included a system that allows the rider to immediately power down the kite. Civel went on to comment that these days, people don't realise that the sport isn't just about speed and big air; you have to have a decent level of competence on skis or a board as well. On the Col de Lauteret, there are kiters of all levels, but it's not a sport you should self-teach, and taking a course with a recognised kite school is essential before heading out on the slope.
Source: Le Dauphine
