Fritz Mares, Leader In Austrian And International Ski Instruction, Has Passed Away.

Fritz Mares, a deserving representative of Austrian and international ski instruction, has passed away.

For decades, he held various positions at the International Federation of Snowsport Instructors (IFSI), including as a member of the Executive Board, Vice President, Financial Officer and Consul in an advisory capacity. He also supported Interski International as General Secretary and Financial Advisor. In everything he did, he showed great respect alongside an unflagging sense of purpose and commitment.

He also played an active role in Austrian ski instruction, holding various offices over many decades. He was a founding member of the Austrian Association of Snow Sport Instructors VOSL, now OVSI, and as Honorary President was a strong supporter of OVSI until very recently. As an official in Interski Austria, he helped shape the development of the association for decades.

Fritz was born and raised in Vienna but lived in Neusiedl an der Zaya in Lower Austria for many decades. He was a keen skier from an early age and as a young man became interested in training as a ski instructor. After completing his training, he was an instructor at the Federal Institute for Physical Education Vienna BAfL, now BSPA for many years, a winter sports officer for Naturfreunde/Naturefriends Austria, and a member of the OVSI Executive Board. The positions he held at OVSI include those of President, Financial Officer, winter sports officer and ultimately, Honorary President. He received numerous distinctions from clubs, associations and government organisations.

No matter what position he held, he always made a significant contribution to the further development of Austrian and international ski instruction. Among other things, he was a staunch supporter of the introduction of new teaching methods, the promotion of young talent and a strong international network of member countries.

As a Board member of Interski Austria, Interski International and the IFSI, Fritz was involved in the organisation of numerous international Congresses and proved himself a highly committed and competent advocate of ski instruction throughout.

Fritz also had a great love for hunting and lived his passion for many years, be it as a hunter, official or supporter of the hunting association.

We will remember Fritz for his meticulous attention to detail, his commitment and his willingness to help. His work has made a lasting impact on ski instruction both in Austria and worldwide. A final thank you, Fritz, for all the work you did in a spirit of community, friendship and unifying cooperation.