By Januaria Piromallo

Born in England, Mary was the icon of the first "Holidays on Ice” many moons ago.  How long ago exactly? It doesn’t matter, as Mary seems to be ageless. Teaching the tiniest of tots to full grown adults—including me—this skating star turned dedicated instructor has graced Gstaad’s largest outdoor rink.

Last winter I rented an apartment facing the ice rink, and began to admire her more and more. I saw her teaching how to spin and how to jump, or simply just how to skate gracefully, because there is no other sport in the world that gives you the elegance and posture of top model, other than figure skating. Mary is so often requested that usually people book her from one season to the next, not wanting to risk losing their spot.

When it rains, I see Mary in her beige anorak with a hood, as she pops in to Charly's for a quick bite.

She has been my daughter Tiare’s coach for five years, and even when she lost her interest (a result of the typical teenager phase), Mary worked hard to bring back her motivation.

I had the pleasure and the honour to share with her the idea of the annual Christmas shows for the past five years at the Grand Hotel Park. In the organisation of this event I could really see her devotion and passion in every aspect of the performance. Mary was meticulous with each detail: music, entrée, grand finale, costumes, accessories, and makeup.

Bringing junior champions to Gstaad from Italy and England to round out the programme, Mary ensured that each show was a success. At the end of each show, after rounds of roaring applause, she even presented each skater with a gift she had specially made.

Mary works on and off the rink to show the correct movements. Her philosophy: repeat and repeat and repeat again until the right movements are ingrained.

She does not smile often, but when she does, everyone feels her smile in their hearts. 

To thank Mary for her unwavering contribution to the community, GSTAADLIFE wanted her in a featured cover story last year. When I asked her, she looked at me and responded: "Why me? Sorry, I am too busy with the children. Let's do it…maybe…next year".

Now here we are, as the season begins again. Mary is out on the rink, doing what she loves. I see her young pupil, spinning as she lifts her arms gracefully into the air.

And if I look closely enough at Mary, I can just make out the slightest hint of a proud smile.