Gabi Pilz has been the owner of the ski school on the Postalm for 24 years. Skiing is part of her life, both professionally and privately. We spoke to her to find out what drives her and what the Postalm means to her.
It's great that you're taking the time today to give us a little glimpse behind the scenes. You told me that you have been running the ski school for 24 years now, your predecessor was there for 30 years. It seems like the Postalm is a place to stay - where does your stamina come from?
From my great love of winter and the joy of being able to turn my hobby into a profession. In summer I'm at the lake - in winter on the mountain. It doesn't get any better than that!
You are a state-certified ski instructor, ski guide and snowboard and cross-country ski instructor. What were your stations before the Postalm?
Initially I was at the Obertraun Federal Sports Center, then I taught, for example at the Montafon Ski School in Vorarlberg. I also went to Finland once, where I also worked as a ski instructor.
And you became deep snow world champion. How did that come about?
Deep snow skiing has always been one of my great passions. It's simply wonderful to glide through the untouched landscape. And what you like to do, you do well. That's probably how it happened.
Today, many children and adults benefit from your wealth of experience. Your team can also learn from you. Do you repeat this every winter?
In my team, we learn from each other. Everyone comes with a story and special skills. The great thing about my job is that I have such great people around me. Without my husband and our ski instructors, our small ski school wouldn't work. I've been working with some of the instructors for over 10 years, while others keep joining us. The size of our team always depends on bookings. Of course, the best thing is when everyone meets up again after a long summer break and can start the new season together.
What makes your ski school special? How would you describe it in two sentences?
We are quite flexible due to our small size and the atmosphere is simply informal. Our children's area and the gentle slopes are perfect for learning to ski. And - this is already the third sentence, but it has to go in: Our ski school is located in the middle of one of the most beautiful areas we have.
You mean the Postalm. What is so special about it?
This place is simply perfect for learning or perfecting your skiing. No matter what day it is, you can always find a beautiful spot on the Postalm. Nature has a special status up here - in the USA it would be a national park. There are no overcrowded and icy artificial snow slopes here. What's more, the atmosphere in the entire winter park is unique - it's human, everything is so approachable, cozy and relaxed.
Dear Gabi, thank you very much for the interesting interview! Before you go: can you tell us your personal ski insider tip? Where do you go when you're not on the Postalm?
Yes, I also go skiing or snowboarding privately. Where? I won't tell you: I'm private there (laughs).
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