Now in its 16th edition, the 2014 INSEAD Alumni Verbier Ski Weekend attracted 40 alums and partners to the Swiss Alps. The group took their chances against an uncertain weather forecast to gather for what has now become a classic roster of activities. Notable guests Daniel Labrecque (MBA ’81), who joined other Alums hailing from Romandie, Paris, and London.
On Friday night, the group gathered at Al Capone, a local pizzeria, to reunite with old friends and meet new ones, then on to the Farinet, the local nightspot. Saturday was a bright and sunny day, despite the forecast. Those who chose Extreme Skiing experienced knee-deep powder snow on Mont-Gelé, Vallon d’Arby, Col des Mines, Tortin, and Gentianes, while the Easy Skiing group took a later departure and earlier landing on selected terrasses for warm drinks.
Après-Ski on Saturday was hosted by Rolf and Anna Abdon, featuring champagne with toasts and inspiring discussions about our School’s future. Afterwards a “near-gastronomic” meal at La Grange replenished body and soul in a very friendly setting. Some of the group then went on to Farinet again, before roaming over to the Farm’s dancefloor until late. On Sunday, a silver cloud lining had covered Verbier’s sky overnight, but it did not discourage some of the more dedicated skiers, while others made their way back home.
The winning formula, according to Yves Haldemann and Philippe Mauron, the volunteer organizers of the event, is to take a group of INSEADers, eager to ski and socialize, wherever they come from, host them in Verbier for 48 hours, and you’ll get another great success. We hope to prove it again in the 2015 edition of the INSEAD Ski Weekend in Verbier!
Report contributed by Yves Haldemann & Philippe Mauron