What a great season it was (’97/’98) with Ian and Jane in Chatel, working with McGarry The Ski System. Ian is a remarkable skier and teacher and without doubt the best ‘boss’ (along with Jane of course) I have ever worked with. People often say that good skiers make it look effortless, but nobody embodied this more than Ian, he literally floats down anything, no matter the conditions.
The best thing about Ian’s teaching style is his relaxed attitude. He makes everyone feel at ease immediately, and there’s no pressure. Ian has zero ego and just wants to see everyone enjoy the mountain.
Ian also always loved a good lunch and that made me happy too. He introduced me to the gourmet delights of the Portes du Soleil ski area, with highlights including the Lindarets Valley and Village des Chevre along with the old restaurant at the bottom of the Prodains with the ‘Madame’ cooking up the plat du jour that was always worth the visit, although that particular restaurant has now closed. Ian and Jane also took all the staff to places such as Les Cornettes…over the past 25 years I’ve been lucky enough to keep on visiting these places and it’s all down to Ian and Jane.
The fact that Ian is also a legendary drummer too makes him contender for the best bloke of the century as far as I’m concerned.
Thanks Ian for all your inspiration, teaching and memories!
Just wish I had a few photos of Ian to post, but unfortunately I do not.
- Rob Stewart