TL;DR
Legendary freeskier Candide Thovex has been honoured by his home resort La Clusaz with a ski run bearing his name. The newly designated run is located in the Massif de Balme sector where Thovex first developed his revolutionary skiing style and filmed many of his most famous segments.
French Ski Legend Candide Thovex Honoured with Named Run at La Clusaz
La Clusaz, one of France's most historic ski resorts, has paid tribute to freeski pioneer Candide Thovex by naming a ski run in his honour. This recognition celebrates the deep connection between the legendary rider and the mountain where he first developed his revolutionary skills.
The newly designated "Candide Thovex" run is situated in the Massif de Balme sector, between the Crintiaux track and the Col de Balme chairlift. This area holds particular significance as the terrain where Thovex spent his formative years and later filmed many of his groundbreaking segments. Skiers and riders can access the run via the Col de Balme lift, with special signs installed in collaboration with Thovex himself. Responding to the honour on social media, the 42-year-old freeskier expressed his gratitude: "I learned to ski at Balme, and it taught me everything. This mountain shaped my skiing. I am honoured to see part of Balme bear my name, and I want to thank La Clusaz for this recognition."
La Clusaz post on Instragram
A Legacy of Innovation
Thovex stands as one of freeskiing's most influential figures, with a career spanning competition dominance, technical innovation, and mainstream impact. His journey began with early success, claiming X Games medals and completing the legendary Chad's Gap jump in Utah at just 17 years old.
Despite suffering a severe back injury that threatened to end his career, Thovex made a remarkable comeback, winning the Freeride World Tour in 2010. His "One of Those Days" video series later captivated millions worldwide, pushing the boundaries of what was previously thought possible on skis.
Today, Thovex continues to shape skiing's future, recently joining the National Selection Tour as an advisor to help incorporate skiing into what has traditionally been a snowboard-dominated event series.
By dedicating this run in his name, La Clusaz not only recognises Thovex's enduring impact on the sport but also invites skiers and riders to experience the very terrain that helped develop one of freeskiing's greatest talents.
About the author
Michael Fulton
Melbourne-based skier and snowboarder with 50+ resorts across 5 continents. Specialises in Australian resorts and international resort comparisons.
