Hugo promises you a sensational winter of biathlon and Nordic skiing!
Published on 20/03/2026 - Written by Amélie
Hugo Rivail is a child of the valley and knows Les Menuires like the back of his hand.
From competition to teaching, his career path has led him to pass on his passion for biathlon and cross-country skiing at the esf. Find out more about him!
A childhood between downhill and cross-country skiing
Born in the Belleville valley, Hugo put on his first skis at a very early age, 3, with the instructors at Les Schtroumpfs (now known as Club Piou-Piou). After obtaining all the stars that validated his level of downhill skiing, he joined the club, where he remained for several years. When he discovered cross-country skiing at the age of 10, it was a real revelation: he decided to join the Les Menuires Nordic ski club.
He then took up biathlon and fell in love with the discipline: "Biathlon combines two completely opposite sports - rifle shooting, which is very cerebral and not very physical, and Nordic skiing, which is the complete opposite. You can do well in one or the other and develop a wide range of skills.
Hugo started competing in biathlon at departmental level, then gradually climbed the ranks to join the French team to take part in the prestigious IBU Cup. This means he can look forward to a career as a top-level sportsman until 2022!
He then took up biathlon and fell in love with the discipline: "Biathlon combines two completely opposite sports - rifle shooting, which is very cerebral and not very physical, and Nordic skiing, which is the complete opposite. You can do well in one or the other and develop a wide range of skills.
Hugo started competing in biathlon at departmental level, then gradually climbed the ranks to join the French team to take part in the prestigious IBU Cup. This means he can look forward to a career as a top-level sportsman until 2022!
Book a lesson with HugoCross-country skiing, biathlon... He'll share his passions with you!Become an ESF instructor and pass on your passion
Motivated by his desire to teach, Hugo immediately set about preparing for his monitorat. He quickly obtained his diploma and spent his first season as a Nordic ski and biathlon instructor in 2022-2023, still in the resort where he first set foot on the slopes.
What does he love about his job? Meeting people from all walks of life and getting them to enjoy skiing. As these two sports are less well known than downhill skiing, Hugo's lessons are attended by many beginners, but are open to all levels of ability.
Through his work, the instructor hopes to raise the profile of Nordic skiing and combat its image as an "old man's sport": "It's a very cardio and all-round discipline that allows you to do sport in a different way and in the heart of nature, in less frequented and more peaceful spots!
What does he love about his job? Meeting people from all walks of life and getting them to enjoy skiing. As these two sports are less well known than downhill skiing, Hugo's lessons are attended by many beginners, but are open to all levels of ability.
Through his work, the instructor hopes to raise the profile of Nordic skiing and combat its image as an "old man's sport": "It's a very cardio and all-round discipline that allows you to do sport in a different way and in the heart of nature, in less frequented and more peaceful spots!
Try Nordic skiing and biathlon in Les Menuires!
Gradually, the professionals are noticing a growing interest in biathlon among visitors. This is due to the opportunity to watch the lessons, which motivates them to take up the sport, but also to the effect of the Olympic Games and France's impressive track record in the discipline.
During his lessons, Hugo offers the opportunity to discover the two sports individually and then to practise the biathlon in real conditions. Two teams compete against each other in a series of challenges, providing a fun and practical approach to the sport.
With its cross-country ski runs suitable for all levels, its exceptional setting and its multi-purpose ski area, Les Menuires is the ideal place to learn about biathlon. Another major advantage is that the cross-country ski trails are free, accessible without a ski pass and away from the noise of the ski lifts. Hugo will be delighted to teach you his favourite sport with esf Les Menuires!
During his lessons, Hugo offers the opportunity to discover the two sports individually and then to practise the biathlon in real conditions. Two teams compete against each other in a series of challenges, providing a fun and practical approach to the sport.
With its cross-country ski runs suitable for all levels, its exceptional setting and its multi-purpose ski area, Les Menuires is the ideal place to learn about biathlon. Another major advantage is that the cross-country ski trails are free, accessible without a ski pass and away from the noise of the ski lifts. Hugo will be delighted to teach you his favourite sport with esf Les Menuires!
What about biathlon?A fun and sporting way to discover with Hugo!