A Life Dedicated to the Slopes and the Written Word
Minty Clinch was a towering figure in British winter sports journalism, leaving an indelible mark through her insightful and often spirited contributions to national newspapers and specialized publications. Her byline graced the pages of The Sunday Times, The Daily Mail, The Telegraph, and The Financial Times, among others, where she brought the world of skiing to life for countless readers. Her passing, over seven months prior to the memorial service, was deeply felt across the industry, prompting this gathering to honour her legacy.
The service, held at Chelsea Old Church in Cheyne Walk, SW3, was a poignant occasion, blending solemn remembrance with joyful celebration. The congregation, comprising a cross-section of the UK snowsport community, paid tribute to a woman described by many as "a force of nature" and someone whose like "we will not see again."
A Life Marked by Adventure and Unconventional Spirit
Tributes delivered during the service painted a vivid picture of Minty Clinch’s distinctive personality and her adventurous spirit. Her lifelong friend, Julian Platt, shared anecdotes that spanned decades, highlighting their shared beginnings in the early 1940s, even as babies in the same pram during the Blitz. Platt recalled Minty’s "beady sideways look," a characteristic that often preceded a witty observation or a daring plan.
Felicity Shankar, Minty’s step-daughter, recounted a memorable incident in Japan where, faced with an early hotel bar closure, Minty orchestrated the purchase and subsequent consumption of miniature saki bottles from the hotel’s gift shop. This anecdote encapsulated Minty’s ability to find enjoyment and create memorable experiences, even in unexpected circumstances. Shankar summarized Minty’s approach to life by stating, "Minty could always be relied upon to provide a slightly dangerous adventure."
Leslie Woit, who travelled from Banff, Canada, spoke of Minty’s unique impact, describing her as "magically different, and made a difference to my life and others." Woit reminisced about numerous dinners filled with "plenty of red wine and sharp observations," and highlighted Minty’s energetic engagement with life, encompassing activities such as riding, skiing, painting, and croquet. She praised Minty’s "ability for renewal and re-invention," a testament to her enduring vitality.
Peter Hardy, travelling from the West Country, characterized Minty as "forthright, fearless, and generous." He further elaborated on her approach to rules and authority, noting, "But she didn’t suffer fools or officialdom with all rules there to be tested, unraveled and then broken." Hardy remembered Minty’s active participation in life, quoting her philosophy: "If you are in a situation that is not working out then just wait and see how it does."
Neil English, journeying from his home in the ski resort of Villars, Switzerland, expressed his admiration, stating, "Our dear friend Araminta did not suffer fools and I am glad I was considered a friend." He poignantly remarked, "It would be wrong to say she had a full life, as she had several full lives," underscoring the breadth and depth of her experiences.
A Service of Song and Remembrance
The service itself incorporated elements that reflected Minty’s vibrant personality. While traditional hymns were sung, the congregation also joined in with "Sweet Caroline" with "utter gusto." As attendees departed, a recording of Buffy Sainte-Marie’s "I’m Gonna Be a Country Girl Again" filled the church, a musical choice that resonated with the spirit of adventure and independence associated with Minty.
The choir of Chelsea Old Church provided a musical backdrop that complemented the heartfelt tributes. While the formal service concluded, the spirit of remembrance continued.
Post-Service Reflections and a Toast to Minty
Following the service, attendees moved to the Chelsea Arts Club for an afternoon of continued celebration. The club, known for its policy of disallowing phones and cameras, provided a private space for reflection, conversation, and camaraderie. This rule, ironically, aligned with Minty’s own ethos of living in the moment, a sentiment echoed by the author of this report. James Cove, writing for PlanetSKI, recalled Minty’s gentle admonishment on a ski trip in Adelboden, urging him to "put your phone away and close that laptop of yours… you are missing so much." This anecdote highlighted Minty’s emphasis on genuine human connection and engagement with the present.
The afternoon at the Chelsea Arts Club was filled with "drink, food, laughter and memories," a fitting continuation of the day’s tributes. "Much hot air was talked," the report notes, a lighthearted acknowledgment of the lively discussions and shared reminiscences.
Minty Clinch: A Lasting Legacy in Ski Journalism
Minty Clinch’s career as a ski writer spanned several decades, during which she witnessed and reported on significant changes within the winter sports industry. Her ability to capture the essence of skiing, from the thrill of the slopes to the nuances of resort life, made her a trusted voice for both casual enthusiasts and seasoned skiers. Her writings not only informed but also inspired, encouraging many to explore the world of snowsports.
The longevity of her career, coupled with her consistent presence in major publications, signifies a remarkable dedication to her craft. The fact that colleagues and friends travelled from distant locations such as Banff, Canada, and Villars, Switzerland, for the memorial service underscores the profound impact she had on individuals across the globe.
The timing of the service, held in the summer months, contrasted with the winter sports she so passionately covered, yet it provided an opportunity for reflection away from the immediate demands of the ski season. The gathering served as a powerful reminder of the enduring connections forged within the close-knit world of winter sports.
The legacy of Minty Clinch extends beyond her published works. She is remembered as a vibrant individual who embraced life with enthusiasm and a touch of daring. Her influence on ski journalism and her personal impact on those who knew her ensure that her memory will continue to resonate within the snowsport community for years to come.
The tributes shared at Chelsea Old Church and the subsequent gathering at the Chelsea Arts Club collectively painted a portrait of a woman who was not only a gifted writer but also a cherished friend, a source of inspiration, and a true embodiment of the adventurous spirit that defines the world of skiing. Minty Clinch’s absence leaves a void, but her contributions and the memories she created will undoubtedly endure.
