Founding Father of BASI Dies

28th September 2022

Last modified on October 3rd, 2022

Derek Brightman held License No1 for the British Association of Snowsport Instructors. He was a legend in the Scottish ski world. Tributes are being paid. UPDATED

He set up the Glesnhee ski school in 1964 and was instrumental in the development of skiing in Scotland and the formation of the British Association of Ski Instructors, as it was known at the time.

“Countless members have reached out expressing how inspiring and influential Derek was to them throughout their careers,” said BASI in a statement.

“It is truly the end of an era and he’ll be greatly missed by everyone here at BASI.”

Derek Brightman, who was 89 when he died, was the first man to ski down the north face Mont Blanc.

He completed the feat in June 1971 with Sylvain Saudan.

PlanetSKI’s editor, James Cove, met and interviewed Derek as James wrote the official history of BASI back in 2012 – “Sharing the Passion”.

“It was an honour to meet all the founders of BASI as I did the research for the book, but Derek stood out,” said James.

“His passion for skiing and passing on his knowledge remained undiminished. He told me all the stories with a twinkle in his eyes and enthusiasm running through his veins.

“A legend has passed on.”

‘Sharing the Passion’ Image © PlanetSKI

The head of GB Park and Pipe, Pat Sharples, has posted his reaction.

Derek’s funeral will be held at Inverness Crematorium at 11am on Thursday the 6th of October and the family would like to welcome friends of Derek to attend.

The family have requested no flowers at the funeral.

Instead there will be an opportunity to donate to Marie Curie whose work with Derek has been incredible.