Brit snowboarder, 59, dies after smashing into tree in ski resort in Andorra
A BRITISH snowboarder has died after smashing into a tree at an Andorran ski resort.
The unnamed 59-year-old was pronounced dead after being rushed to base station with life-threatening injuries on Monday.
The incident happened at around 1pm at the Avet slope, which is one of Grandvalira Ski Resort’s most famous slopes in the tiny principality and has hosted prestigious competitions such as the 2012 Women’s Skiing World Cup.
His wife is understood to have been on the ski slopes with him but he was alone when he hurt himself.
Police have launched a routine inquiry.
Police have launched a routine inquiry.
A spokesman for Grandvalira Andorra said: “Grandvalira regrets the death of a British tourist who this afternoon has suffered an accident on the Avet slope in the Soldeu sector.
“The man, who was practising snowboard, lost control and hit a tree, suffering serious injuries and going into cardiac arrest.
“The base station rescue teams rapidly activated the emergency protocol and rushed to the scene of the incident to assist the injured man.
“They subsequently transferred him to the bottom of the slope. Despite all attempts to revive him, he died minutes later.
“The incident happened on the Avet slope, which is classified as a black slope and over the last few days and in several parts, has been signposted with warnings about hard-packed snow conditions.
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“This slope is recommended for users with a high degree of skiing expertise.
“The dead man was skiing alone when the accident happened. Andorra’s police force has opened an investigation to clarify the possible causes.
“Grandvalira regrets this terrible loss of life and would like to pass on their condolences to the man’s family and friends.”