- News Article

Some Desktop Backgrounds from K2 Skis

Wed, 26 May 2010 11:55:00 -0400

The guys over at K2 skis are kind enough to provide some really beautiful desktop backgrounds of some of the top shots of their athletes throughout the years, so make sure to head over to www.k2skis.com and check out what's new in their world. To download high res shots, click the "Volume #" above each group of photos! Enjoy

Volume 1

Volume 2

Volume 3

Monster Energy Enemy Lines - Fernie, April 5-6

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 07:27:00 -0400

Just announced, the inaugural “Monster Energy Enemy Lines” at Fernie Resort, April 5-6 featuring 26 of the world's top big mountain skiers in the most incredible chinese downhill of all time.

It's a winner-take-all, no holds barred, balls out, big mountain freeskiing race!

Dropping en masse from the top of Fernie's infamous and permanently closed “Lizard Headwall” between Polar and Grizzly Peaks and racing down 3,550 feet of vertical to the bottom of the mountain for $20,000 cash for the first to the finish at the resort village.

Here's what Monster Energy had to say: "Enemy Lines" is not the first of it’s kind, however, it’s the first time in history (so far as we know) that this type of race, made famous in the cult ski film “Hot Dog,” will take place as a professional sport with the first one across the finish line winning not only bragging rights but the big cheque as well."

Check out the Monster Energy Enemy Lines teaser video below.

The Lizzard Headwall which towers above Fernie Resort has been permanently closed to skiers for the past two decades. But with lots of named lines like 8 Ball, Spine Tingler, Curve Ball, Plastic Jesus, and JIJO you know the Headwwall is a storied descent, making the anticipation of Monster Energy Enemy Lines all the more heightened.

The Enemy Lines Qualifier, on Friday, April 5th will also be an insane event to see. It's a timed seeding race that will start at the top of Polar Peak, in terrain that is also permanently closed to skiers, and finishes near Giggly Gully at the bottom of the Lizard Bowl.

Friday, April 5
11m-4pm: Qualifiers

Saturday, April 6
12-7pm: Village beer gardens featuring Dj Pump, DJ Illo and Vinyl Ritchie
4pm: Monster Energy Enemy Lines start, weather permitting.
8:30pm-1am: Monster Energy After Party at Grizz Bar

The iconic "Headwall" towers above Fernie

Freeskier Best Photo Sequence Finalists Announced

Fri, 09 Apr 2010 21:24:00 -0400

Freeskier announced the finalists to their "Best Photo Sequence" contest in collaboration with Sandisk, where they received over 300 photos from photographers hoping to take home the 5000$ cash prize. Head over to Freeskier.com to check out the full-update! Below are the the finalists in no particular order.

Tim Durtschi on Chad’s Gap

Tom Wallisch at Park City by @rocmaloney

PK Hunder in Switzerland

Andre Humas at Park City by @rocmaloney

Wiley Miller by Endre Lovaas

PG Conrardy in France

Calvin Hawley at Park City

Jacob Wester in Sweden by Ben Zucker

Ian McIntosh

McRae Williams by Roc Maloney

Full recap: 3rd Annual Horseshoe Open presented by 102.1 the Edge

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 08:04:00 -0400

Horseshoe Resort hosted the 3^rd Annual Horseshoe Open presented by 102.1 the Edge this past weekend. The event kicked off with slopestyle on Friday, followed by a rail jam Saturday afternoon and pro big air on Saturday night under the lights.

Skiers showed up Friday morning to find a slopestlye course consisting of a choice between a down bar and down-flat-down, before doglegging right into the second rail platform which held a flat-down box and corrugated tube. The course ended off with a double jump line and a huge spine stall. The clouds parted briefly in the morning, but the rest of the day brought cloud and wind for the competitors to fight with. Max Moffatt took the Pro Men’s division, and Rachel Anderson and Christian Stormgaard took the Women’s and Am Men’s categories.

The sun was shining bright on Saturday morning for the rail jam, and in the softening conditions you could tell the skiers were leaning towards the flat rail on the left side of the setup throughout qualifiers. Only the best would move on, and on this day it was going to be the trio of McCarl, Metzger and Moffatt battling for the top step of the podium. Jarrad McCarl tossed a same way 450 off the flat rail and a lipslide switch up, 270 out on the down bar to seal third place. Nevin Metzger bagged a pretzel 450 off the flat and buttered into the down rail with a 270 out for second. Moffatt sealed his second win of the weekend, and put a stamp on it with a hardway 450 onto the down rail. Scott Thoroski was also turning heads with his 630 off of the Rockstar flat rail. On the Am Men’s and Women’s side, Stormgaard and Anderson also wrapped up their second top finishes off the weekend.

As the sunlight faded, Young Empires and Kardinal Offishall took to the stage to get the crowd hyped up for the Pro Big Air under the lights. Rachel Anderson got comfortable with her speed during practice, and immediately started throwing out huge grabs and even a stylish kosak during the main event to seal up the three-peat on the Women’s side. Sandy Boville was noticeably absent throughout the weekend because he was out wrapping up the overall Canadian Shield Series Title at Mt. Seymour, but he managed to catch an early flight back and arrived just in time to pick up a bib. Not just a frequent flier with Air Canada, Boville stomped a switch cork 5, switch 10, rodeo 9 and double cork 9 that were more than enough for him to nab his second oversized novelty cheque of the weekend. Nevin Metzger took second with a rodeo 5, switch 7 and double cork 9, and Ross Fedyna rounded out the podium with a double cork 10, rodeo 5 and a big 720.

Sarah Burke Inducted into Olympic Hall of Fame

Fri, 21 Sep 2012 11:44:00 -0400

Bruce Arthur | Sep 20, 2012 8:27 PM ET | Last Updated: Sep 21, 2012 10:01 AM ET
More from Bruce Arthur | @bruce_arthur

Darren Calabrese/National PostJan Phelan, left, and Rory Bushfield, centre, the mother and husband of the late skier Sarah Burke, embrace after receiving a pin at the 2012 Canadian Olympic Hall of Fame inductee press conference in Toronto Thursday, September 20, 2012. Burke, who passed away following a training accident is being inducted into the Canadian Olympic Committee hall of fame as a builder.

Sarah Burke remembered by those who loved her the most

When his wife’s name was mentioned the first time, Rory Bushfield smiled, a small soft smile, because she was being called “a woman who literally transformed her sport forever,” and he was so proud of her for that. The second time she was mentioned, Bushfield’s head dropped and he closed his eyes, just for a second, because they were talking about the accident, and that was the worst thing that had ever happened to him.

“You just take it day by day, man,” said Bushfield, after his late wife, Sarah Burke, was inducted in the Canadian Olympic Hall of Fame. “I just think of what Sarah would do, what I would want Sarah to do, and I do that. It seems right.”

It has been eight months since Sarah fell on a routine training run in Utah, eight months and three days, and there is still plenty of wreckage left behind. She was a freestyle skiing pioneer who helped push her sport into the Olympics, and she was adored by her friends and her family and her husband, and she died at 29. And on this day in downtown Toronto, alongside inductees like Daniel Igali, Beckie Scott, Jean-Luc Brassard, and Scott Niedermayer, the people Sarah left behind got to remember her again, and had to remember her again.

“I just remember holding her within seconds of her being born, and holding her hand on her last breath, and everything in between was perfect,” said her father, Gordon Burke, his eyes drooping and bright. “I’m not saying this now because she’s not here, or because memories are different or anything, but it’s just as her dad I was always stunned by the amount of what she sought to do for everybody.

“I never had a bad day in my life with her. It truly was like something magical fell into our lives. It left a little too soon, but she was just awesome every day.”

Her mother, Jan Phelan, told the the story of cooking in the kitchen when she heard four-year-old Sarah tumbling down the stairs, crash-crash-bang, and she ran to check on her daughter and Sarah was getting up, and said, “I meant to do that.” Rory remembered how last week, at the ski camp at Whistler where Sarah had created a Girls’ Week, the kids would go silent when her name came up, all these girls, instantly reverential. All three of them tried to explain what they had lost.

“It breaks your heart,” said her mother, an artist who separated from Sarah’s father when they were young, and who moved to Squamish in 2008 to be closer to Sarah and Rory. “I know I run away from home. I keep going away, and I know I’m going back soon, but … there’s a part of you that wants to sink into the despair and sorrow of it, and it would be so easy to do.

“But you would be doing a disservice to Sarah, to everybody. So you figure out a way to get through the next week, get through the next few days, get through the next month. Something you can deal with rather than looking at the whole expanse of life without Sarah. You can’t go there.”

Jan shudders when she says the last few words. Rory is the same; it’s like he can’t talk too deeply about Sarah because he might shudder and break, but he does his best. They lived in a world of mountain biking and hiking, skiing and daring, backcountry and bush planes. They were married in 2010, and they looked beautiful and young and limitless, and he was the luckiest man in the world.

On this day Rory was dressed all in black — slightly rumpled black dress shirt, black pants, black shoes. And he wore a button on his chest and this little purple ribbon pinned to his sleeve. Purple was Sarah’s favourite colour. The button had her picture on it. He carries her around a lot, literally and figuratively. He had never really lost anybody before.

“No, I haven’t, man,” he said. “That was the toughest part; I mean, I’m so blessed with my life, and so lucky to do everything that I get to do, and Sarah — as you can tell, [she] is the most amazing girl ever. I just basically … I had it all.”

Then it was gone, and it has been a long road alone. Rory, an extreme skier, has spent some time running away in his own fashion: touring Australia as part of an extreme-sports traveling show called The Nitro Circus, skiing in Nepal as part of a film. He is trying not to say no when people ask him to do things, because she wouldn’t want him to say no. It took him a while to do anything after she died, but he is distracting himself, when he can. He thought about her the first time he was back on skis, back in a dangerous place. He didn’t stop.

“Sarah passed away doing what she loved to do, and to be honest, that’s what I want to do,” Rory said. “To be able to give it your all, and live completely in the moment, absolutely. I don’t know. Absolutely it crosses your mind that it’s dangerous, but every risk is weighed, and it’s always worth it.”

His old roommate — their old roommate — just came back to Squamish and moved back in, and that helps. Rory is working on Sarah’s soon-to-be-launched foundation, and tries to ignore the rain, and goes for hikes that he and Sarah used to enjoy. He takes Duckster.

“Sarah and I had a dog, and I’m so thankful,” Rory said, “because I never wanted a dog, and Sarah brought Duckster in. I love dogs, but we travelled so much, and she always wanted a dog. She waited until I was concussed, and then gave me this dog. She said, ‘He was abandoned, under a car. We could take him to the pound.’ ” He gave in. He laughed. “So happy to have him.”

He was asked if this year has made him stronger, and said he doesn’t know. It was suggested that this was a terrible, beautiful day; having to remember, getting to remember, but Rory smiled. “A beautiful day,” he said. Jan murmured agreement; Gordon nodded. A beautiful day. They walked out laughing at something, all three of them, trying not to break without the one person who brought them together.

Boville and Warll win The Canadian Shield overall tour titles

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 12:44:00 -0400

The final stop of The Canadian Shield Slopestyle Tour took place this past weekend at Mt Seymour, B.C. The contest not only boasted a large cash purse of $10 000 up for grabs it was also looking to crown the overall tour winners in both the men's and women's pro open divisions. On the men's front Sandy Boville was able to capture the title by placing second at both the Mt Seymour, B.C. and Blue Mountain, O.N. stops. Jessica Warll who won the Blue Mountain pro women's division and the scbwomen.com Stand Out Trick at Blue Mountain was able to hold onto the title despite being absent at the Mt Seymour contest. The two title winners will head down to El Salvador on a surf trip this fall.

On the Amateur division front, an overall title prize was also up for grabs that included a potential sponsorship contract from both K2 Skies and Eira outerwear. There was a tie for the men's title between Pierre Beaudet who won the Blue Mountain stop and Connor Warnock who won the Mt Seymour stop, it will be up to the brands to select a winner and who knows maybe both will get hooked-up. On the women's side, Rachael Karker claimed the title and sponsorship thanks to her fourth place standing at Blue Mountain and third place result at Mt Seymour.

Check out the podium results below and be sure to check back later this week for video highlights from the contest.

Overall tour title winner Sandy Boville pictured with Jessica Warll Stand-in

Kira Byers captures the SBC SKIER Magazine Stand Out Trick Award with her 720 Mute. She is joined on the podium by Bryce Barker who capurted the SBC SKIER Magazine Stand Out Trick for a Rodeo 810.

Pro Men's Results:

1. Max Morello

2. Sandy Boville

3. Ian Cosco

Pro Women's Results:

1. Cassandra Ratcliffe

2. Kira Byers

3. Emma Stevens

Amateur Men's Results:

1. Connor Warnock

2. Tomas Smyth

3. Josh Harlow

Amateur Women's Podium:

1. Elena Gaskell

2. Sofia Tchernetsky

3. Rachael Karker

15 & Under Boys Results:

1. Ty Urlich

2. Landon Gordon

3. Alex Butt

BROWN WINS X-GAMES SLOPESTYLE, CASABON 4TH

Sun, 31 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Aspen, CO – Bobby Brown of Breckenridge, Colorado continued his breakout X-Games performance by adding Slopestyle gold to his Big Air win. “Last night when I won Big Air I was freaking out,” an excited Brown said. “Now I am freaking out twice as much. Last year I was an alternate and this year I came in with a lot more confidence.”

Brown's final round Slopestyle score of 94.33 was enough to beat Norway's Andeas Hatveit’s 92.00. American Sammy Carlson of Hood River, Oregon took the bronze, just ahead of Canada's Phil Casabon.

X-GAMES 2010 MEN'S SLOPESTYLE RESULTS Bobby Brown. Photo: Nate Abbott/Shazamm/ESPN
1. Bobby Brown, Breckenridge, CO (Salomon, Smith) USA 94.33
2. Andeas Hatveit, Sudndalen, NOR (Atomic, Giro) 92.00
3. Sammy Carlson, Hood River, OR USA (Salomon, Oakley, Nike 6.0, DaKine, Rockstar) 89.33
4. Phil Casabon, Shawinigan, Quebec CAN (Orage, Armada, Oakley) 88.66
5. Russ Henshaw, Jindabyne, AUS (Volkl, Marker, Red Bull) 83.66
6. Matt Walker, Aspen, CO USA (Salomon, Jiberish, Scott, Skull Candy, Level, EC) 83.00
7. Jossi Wells, Wanaka, NZ (Atomic, Monster, Oakley, Nike 6.0, Skull Candy, Giro) 77.66
8. Tom Wallisch, Pittsburgh, PA USA (Skull Candy, Amplid, Kombi, Jiberish, Full Tilt, EC) 72.33

Bobby Brown (left) and Andreas Hatveit. Photo: Nate Abbott/Shazamm/ESPN

Andreas Hatveit. Photo: Nate Abbott/Shazamm/ESPN

Phil Casabon. Photo: Nate Abbott/Shazamm/ESPN

Sammy Carlson. Photo: Nate Abbott/Shazamm/ESPN

X Games Video Highlights

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 22:00:00 -0500

Looking for one convenient spot to watch all the various X Games videos? From slopestyle previews to athlete interviews, this is your one stop shop for all things X Games.

Big Air

Aspen/Snowmass drops a big air preview

Atomic Airtime checks out big air practice

Halfpipe

Torin Yater Wallace Takes a couple runs through the pipe.

Freeskier Magazine asks, "Hey, how's the 2013 X Games Aspen superpipe?"

Slopestyle

Slopestyle Preview with McRae Williams & Matt Walker

Monster Energy slopestyle preview with Alex Schlopy

Freeskier Magazine chats with Henrik Harlaut, Russ Henshaw, Keri Herman and Gus Kenworthy about the 2013 slopestyle course

Gus Kenworthy X Games slopestyle preview

Kaya Turski going for Aspen four-peat

Kaya Turski: "If I can see it in my head, I believe I can do it on snow

Own an Eric Pollard Original Painting – Benefit Auction

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 09:52:00 -0500

The good people at evo have partnered up with team rider Eric Pollard to raise money for the Big Brothers Big Sisters foundation.

Ski legend, evo team member and talented artist, Eric Pollard has generously donated one of his original oil paintings to support a very important cause. The painting will be auctioned and 100% of the proceeds will benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound. Hurry, auction ends on Tues, Nov 22nd. Bid Here >

About the Painting:
The Calm Before The Storm is an evo-exclusive original painting by Eric Pollard. The painting commemorates evo’s partnership with Eric as well as years together skiing and sharing the love for it. Both evo and Eric are working together to keep skiing progressive, fun, welcoming and simply awesome. The paining is oil on canvas and measures 36" X 24".

About Eric Pollard:

Eric is an artist, athlete, film maker, product designer and longtime friend (and team member) of evo. Eric's skiing inspires his art and vice versa. To that end, he started Nimbus Independent, a successful ski film company, and his artwork has been featured on several of his sponsor’s products including:

·         Line Skis Sir Francis Bacon
·         Line Skis Mr Pollard’s Opus
·         Dakine Eric Pollard Team Heli Pro Backpack
·         Dakine Eric Pollard Team Sabre Glove

About Big Brothers Big Sisters:
At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound, we provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better, forever. It is our vision that all children achieve success in life. Our goal is to help children avoid risky behavior and cope with socio-emotional and self-esteem issues. We partner with parents/guardians, volunteers, and others in the community and hold ourselves accountable for each child in our program achieving higher aspirations, gaining confidence to overcome challenges, improving relationships with family and peers, and obtaining educational success.

Tanner Hall Wins Dew Tour Pipe Final Event & Overall Title

Sun, 22 Feb 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Northstar-at-Tahoe – Tanner Hall wins the Tahoe Dew Tour pipe event and clinches the overall 2009 Dew Tour Pipe Championship title. Hall (pictured in photo on right) finished just ahead of Simon Dumont and Colby West in an American podium sweep at Tahoe. The top Canadian was Matt Margetts in 7th. Fellow Canadians Mike Riddle and Justin Dorey finished 9th and 11th respectively.

Hall won it on his second run which included a 1260, consecutive 900’s, an alley-oop flatspin 360 to a switch 900. “When I went down on my last run I knew I was either going to be first or second, and that’s always a good feeling,” Hall said. “It gave me confidence to just go out and lay it all on the line for that last run.”

Despite his 11th place finish in Tahoe, Justin Dorey still scored enough points to take 3rd overall for the three event 2009 Dew Tour Pipe Championship!

Check out this video of Simon Dumont's 2nd place pipe run!

www.allisports.com

Now check out this video of Tanner's winning run!

www.allisports.com

Here's the full Pipe low down from Justin Broglio, Dew Tour

In a loose scenario not unfamiliar to the freeski community, Tanner Hall and Simon Dumont battled it out for not only the Toyota Championship Superpipe Final, but for the coveted Dew Cup itself, here at Northstar-at-Tahoe. The final was crammed with skiers both illustrious and relatively up-and-coming; unfortunately, the unknowns for whom everyone was rooting weren't able to execute the monstrous tricks required to knock out Hall and Dumont from their two-man show.

So how did Tanner do it this time? He went to business by nailing a huge 1260 right off, followed equally massive right 900 that lead into an ally-oop flat 360 japan air. Further down the pipe, it was his “disgusting”--as one spectator called it (you know, like "bad", as in "good")--switch 900 with a grab. A run like this is pretty much the superpipe equivalent of grabbing the judges' lapels and shouting, "Hey! Anybody Home?"

Throughout the night, Dumont--who failed to podium in the Men’s Slopestyle Final earlier in the day--pitted pure determination against what had to be sheer exhaustion. Atop the pipe, when asked how the flat light conditions were affecting him, Dumont mumbled an answer as he shouldered his skis while unloading from the snowmobile shuttle.

After crashing numerous times during practice runs and continually battling some sort of head-cold/flu mix, Dumont managed to throw down a solid run the first time around, but a sketchy landing out of a massive right 900 forced him to turn a 1260 mid pipe into a 900. His score remained stuck at 88.25. In his second run, Dumont followed up with the same run again; this time he dialed that 1260, bumping his score to a then-high-score of 92.50. It was around this moment Dumont actually smiled for the first time of the day. Lingering at the bottom of start-order, however, Tanner Hall saw to it that Dumont's score wouldn't stay at the top for long.

After the awards ceremony, Dumont, dog-tired and clearly disappointed, said he was glad to be done with the whole thing. “I don’t even want to talk about it anymore," he said, adding it was just another day. "I laid down what I could and now I want to go home and get some sleep."

As for the rest of the field of world-class pipe-riders...
Canada's Justin Dorey, who entered the final as a pre-qualifier and clearly the crowd favorite, tried for one of the biggest tricks of the night: a double flip on the first hit and another on the fourth hit. On the first double he lofted well over 18 feet above the lip of the superpipe before smashing down to the deck--leaving over 2,000 fans (myself certainly included) horrified he’d broken bones. Undaunted, Dorey righted himself, waved his hand in the air, and took a snowmobile ride to the top before giving it another go. In his second run he dialed the first double but sketched out on the second.

“I had to go for it, it’s the last stop of the Tour,” Dorey said, who landed the trick in practice. However, the young skier's efforts did not go unnoticed.
“Let’s give it up for Justin Dorey,” Tanner Hall yelled from the top of the podium during the award ceremony. “Now there’s the future of pipe skiing.”

Mike Riddle also threw down his beautiful cork 900--the same one which earned him the top spot at Thursday’s Prelim--but it wasn’t enough at tonight's final.
Xavier Bertoni, who qualified just behind Riddle in the Prelim, boosted way out of the pipe, spinning both ways with a left 900 into right 900 before finishing with an ally-opp flat 360. Xavier landed in fifth place with an 84.25.

TAHOE DEW TOUR MEN’S SUPERPIPE FINAL
1 Tanner Hall, USA (Red Bull, Armada, Oakley) 93.75
2. Simon Dumont, USA (Red Bull, Salomon, Oakley) 92.50
3. Colby James West, USA (Monster, Technica, Giro, Empire) 87.00
4. Kevin Rolland, FRA (Rossignol) 86.50
5. Xavier Bertoni, FRA (Rossignol, Giro) 84.25
6. Matt Philippi, USA (Volkl, Marker, Technica, DNA, Bolle, Level) 83.75
7. Matt Margetts, CAN (K2, Orage, Smith) 80.25
8. Tyler Peterson, USA (Scott) 78.75
9. Mike Riddle, CAN (Smith, DaKIne, Skull Candy) 67.00
10. John Strenio, USA (Line, Scott) 62.75
11. Justin Dorey, CAN (Dynastar, Scott, Lange) 48.00
12. Matt Duhamel, USA (Dynastar, Smith) 40.00

Tanner Hall. Bridges photo.

DEW TOUR OVERALL MEN’S SUPERPIPE
1 Tanner Hall, USA (Red Bull, Armada, Oakley) 280.00
2. Simon Dumont, USA (Red Bull, Salomon, Oakley) 260.00
3. Justin Dorey, CAN (Dynastar, Scott, Lange) 220.00
4. Duncan Adams, USA (Dynastar, Spy, Spyder) 169.00
5. Colby James West, USA (Monster, Technica, Giro, Empire) 160.00
6. Mike Riddle, CAN (Smith, DaKIne, Skull Candy) 144.00
7. Xavier Bertoni, FRA (Rossignol, Giro) 135.00
8. Kevin Rolland, FRA (Rossignol) 135.00

Simon Dumont (above) finished 2nd in the Tahoe Pipe Final as well as 2nd overall on the 2009 Dew Tour Pipe Championship. Bridges photo.

Monster Energy Enemy Lines - Fernie, BC

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 19:11:00 -0400

Local Knowledge vs. World Cup Experience; this was the discussion overheard during the preceding days of Monster Energy’s Enemy Lines event at Fernie Alpine Resort this past weekend. The past five years, a local, mass-start, Chinese Downhill-style race has been held from the mountain’s highest point—Polar Peak—to the base of the ski hill, to be precise, to the bar top of the legendary Griz Bar. This time around, the energy drink giant injected some money into the race and brought the purse up to a lofty $20,000 winner-takes-all prize. Add a heritage of legit Monster-sponsored parties, hot ladies in tight pants, an invite-only list featuring a mix of both locals and professionals from away, and Enemy Lines elevated a local event into an instant legend.

The race was supposed to feature 26 riders starting from the top of Fernie’s storied Lizard Headwall, choosing whichever damn line they felt like through Lizard Bowls bumps, jumps and numerous cat-track airs, through the flats at the bottom of the hill and across the finish line. No more would the athletes be required to run across the brick courtyard in slick ski boots, stumble up dangerous stairs and slam their hand down on the bar. They would just have to survive…and survive a little faster than the rest. And although rainy coniditons led to a snow instability that would prevent the race from starting on the headwall and instead move it lower into the bowl, the race was anything but easy. In fact, it was intense as hell.

So the debate about local knowledge vs. just-being-faster-than-everyone-else? As usual, a real racer won, but not just any racer. Sherpas Cinema freeski dude and former Canadian National Ski Cross member Stan Rey took top honours by sticking top form, top speed airs through the bumpiest segments of the run. At one point it looked like the Fastest Man in Fernie—two time Chinese Downhill winner, local Graeme Tabor—might catch him. But on the last air of Lizard Bowl—a giant rolling beast of an air—Tabor compressed upon landing and only won a bloody nose. Rey used his experience on the Canadian National Ski Cross team, and his finely tuned race skis, to continue ahead of the freeski-clad mob desperately trying to catch him. Fernie local and FWT freeski competitor Luke Nelson was close behind, as were Rory Bushfield and longtime Fernie-ite, now Whistler-ite, Matt Elliot. Everyone survived. Most were surprised.

Beyond the race, the weekend was a blur of green lights, heavy bass and boozy drinks. The usual Monster-sponsored party scene was populated with a potent mix of athletes, awesome locals and party girls. From the sounds of it, this event is set to go off again next year…this time from the top. If it does, be prepared for one of the best events of the year.

Kye Peterson Wins Red Bull Cold Rush

Sat, 21 Mar 2009 00:00:00 -0400

Retallack, B.C. – Whistler’s 19 year old big mountain phenom Kye Peterson was voted winner of the 2009 Red Bull Cold Rush by his fellow competitors, all among the best big mountain freeskiers in the world. JP Auclair and Sage Cattabriga-Alosa were voted 2nd and 3rd place respectively.

One of the most progressive big mountain freeski contests of the year, the Cold Rush featured a three event format consisting of Backcountry Big Air (20%); Cliff Lines (40%), and Big Mountain Descent (40%). The Cold Rush took place at the famed Retallack Lodge in the Selkirk Mountain Range from March 16-18. Podium Photo (Left to R): JP Auclair – 2nd; Kye Peterson – 1st; Sage Cattabriga-Alosa – 3rd.

Above photo: Kye Peterson, Big Mountain Descent contest

The contest line-up included the 2008 Cold Rush champ Dave Treadway, 2009 Cdn Freeskiing Open champ Dane Tudor, plus CR Johnson, Cody Barnhill, Riley Leboe, Tyler Ceccanti, Mike Hopkins, Callum Pettit and Sean Pettit.

Red Bull Cold Rush Results
1. Kye Peterson, Whistler, BC (Oakley, Rossignol, Giro, Pow, Leki)
2. JP Auclair, Whistler, BC (Oakley, Orage, Armada, Giro, Level, JoyStick)
3. Sage Cattabriga-Alosa, UT, USA (Rossignol, Smith, The North Face)

JP Auclair, Backcountry Jump contest

Sage Cattabriga-Alosa, Cliff Lines contest

Kye Peterson

Anna Segal Takes X Games Inaugral Women's Ski Slopestyle

Sun, 25 Jan 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Australia’s Anna Segal prevailed as much over demanding conditions as she did over her peers invited to compete in the first ever women’s ski slopestyle event at X-Games. Wet, heavy snow combined with fog to make a challenging slopestyle course that much more difficult for the world’s best.

“My strategy was to pop as hard as I could and keep as much speed as possible," an excited Segal said following her winning first run. She managed to complete a Lincoln Loop, a couple of big 3s and a 540 to outpoint American Grete Eliassen. Canadian Kaya Turski, a pre-event favourite followed in third. "The weather was crazy," Turski said. "I had to switch my whole line. Next year I am hoping for better than bronze."

Conditions took their toll on top Canadians Sarah Burke, fresh off her Superpipe win, and Kim Lamarre, Both went down hard as a result of the heavy snow compromising their jump landings. The X-Games Men’s Slopestyle Finals take place tomorrow.

RESULTS – WOMEN’S SKI SLOPESTYLE
1. Anna Segal, Melbourne, AUS (K2, Electric, Sessions) 85.00
2. Grete Eliassen, Salt Lake City, UT, USA (Red Bull, Head, Oakley) 79.00
3. Kaya Turski, Montreal, QC, CAN (Salomon, Oakley, Bula) 70.00
4. Keri Herman, Breckenridge, CO, USA (Salomon, Scott, Spyder) 63.33
5. Megan Olenick, Aspen, CO, USA 61.33
6. Kristi Leskinen, Uniontown, PA, USA (Monster, Oakley, Giro) 50.00
7. Sarah Burke, Whistler, BC, CAN (Monster, Roxy, Smith) 42.00
8. Kim Lamarre, Lac‐Beauport, QC, CAN (Armada, Oakley, Nikita) 19.00

Anna Segal. McCririck photo

Kaya Turski. McCririck photo

Grete Eliassen. McCririck photo

TJ SCHILLER 2ND AT X-GAMES BIG AIR, BOBBY BROWN WINS

Sat, 30 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Aspen, CO – Vernon, BC's TJ Schiller proved once again he is among the best skiers in the world with his silver medal performance in Big Air at X-Games 14, but the defending X-Games Slopestyle champ could not overcome Bobby Brown's perfect score in the finals!

On two of his seven runs, Brown scored a perfect 50. Those scores gave him an unprecedented perfect score of 100, sealing his gold medal. Schiller took the silver with a score of 95. “I am beyond stoked,” Brown said. “It is the best feeling ever. The level of competition was insane and we were feeding off each other. When I saw TJ throw his trick, I knew I had to throw something really big.” That something big was a switch-double misty 1440 – four full rotations in the air.
X-Games Big Air Podium. Photo: Tomas Zuccareno/Shazamm/ESPN

“It is so exciting to see how good everyone is,” Schiller added. “I couldn’t believe Bobby had a perfect score. No one has ever done that, ever.” Seventeen year old Elias Ambuhl of Switzerland took home the bronze with a score of 90.

TJ Schiller. Photo: Flip McCririck/Shazamm/ESPN

X-GAMES 2010 BIG AIR RESULTS
1. Bobby Brown, Breckenridge, CO USA (Salomon, Smith) 100
2. TJ Schiller, Vernon, BC, CAN (Monster, Nike 6.0, CoreUPT, Dragon, Skull Candy, POC) 95
3. Elias Ambuhl, Laax, SUI 90
4. Russ Henshaw, Jindabyne, AUS 89
5. Jossi Wells, Wanaka, NZ 89

Bobby Brown. Photo: Flip McCririck/Shazamm/ESPN

TJ Schiller. Photo: Matt Morning/Shazamm/ESPN

Wallisch Wins Tahoe Dew Tour Slopestyle Final

Sun, 22 Feb 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Northstar-at-Tahoe – Missing nary a beat American Tom Wallisch went from dominating Friday’s Slopestyle Prelims to winning Saturday’s Finals at the Dew Tour at Tahoe. Close behind was Canadian Alexis Godbout and Kiwi Jossi Wells. Norway’s PK Hunder’s 6th place finish was enough to clinch the overall Dew Series Slopestyle title.

PHOTO: Slopestyle Winners (left to right): Alexis Godbout–2nd; Tom Wallisch–1st; Jossi Wells–3rd. Photo: Bo Bridges

Report by Justin Broglio, Dew Tour – What a start to the day! I watched Tom Wallisch, during practice, spin switch left 1260 to switch right 1260 again and again like it was nothing. I knew something big was going to happen later in the Men's Freeski Slopestyle Final. I was right.

Wallisch's incredible technical abilities and pure style put him in the number-one spot of the day with a 92.00. He had a little trouble with his speed and missed the down-flat-down rail during his first run, but he came back strong in the second run and threw down one of the best Slopestyle runs of the Winter Dew Tour. Closely behind Wallisch stood Alexis Godbout and Josiah Wells at 91.83 and 90.50, respectively. PK Hunder, although he placed sixth in this Toyota Championship at Tahoe, seizes the Dew Cup on behalf of his stellar performances in previous tour stops.

Tom Wallisch Slopestyle Final winner. Bridges photo.

As for the wild-card Wallisch (who didn't compete at Breckenridge due to an injury, and competed exclusively in Superpipe at Mount Snow), this victory is really something.

“I slowed down a bit on my second run, fixed my mistakes,” Wallisch said from the podium. "I couldn’t be more stoked to be in this position right now." Additionally, he spoke well of his buds. “Alexis totally deserves this after his run,” said Wallisch, who travels without a coach and relies on his friends' input alone to better his skiing.“He absolutely killed it today.”

Check out this video Wallisch's winning run.

www.allisports.com

Alexis’ second run consisted of a myriad of tricks, including a switch lip to inward (pretzel) 270 off the first rail (a combination that no one else was doing today), to a switch misty 900 with a heavily tweaked mute grab. He followed with a right-side 900 with a reverse mute grab before finishing off with one of the cleanest switch 1260s of the day.

Going into this final event of the Dew Tour, Alexis, trailing thirty points in overall tour points behind PK and Bobby Brown, stood in a distant fourth behind Henrik Harlaut. However, it was Alexis’ astonishing runs (the higher earning 91.00), coupled with uncharacteristically low placements by PK and Bobby, that catapulted Alexis to within 10 points of PK’s Dew Cup-winning score of 230.

Check out this video of Godbout's sick run!

www.allisports.com

Brown had a little trouble with the down-flat-down rail during his first run, but later executed a perfect left 900 into switch 1280 (both with beautiful tip grabs). Earning an 82.00, Bobby finished ninth. It's something of an understatement to say he was disappointed.
Dew Cup-winner PK Hunder, on the other hand, whose 89.00 score earned him sixth-place, had other issues to deal with. During his first run he landed just outside the sweet spot on the second to last jump and was forced to put a hand down in order to maintain balance going into the last hit; something the judges frown on in freeskiing.

“It’s my loose ACL,” he said after his second run. “I wasn’t happy with performance today and I should have done better.”

TAHOE-AT-NORTHSTAR DEW TOUR / TOYOTA SLOPESTYLE FINAL RESULTS
1     Tom Wallisch, USA (Skull Candy, Amplid, Spy, Kombi, Jiberish) 92.00
2    Alexis Godbout, CAN (Salomon, Scott) 91.00
3    Jossi Wells, NZ (Atomic, Oakley, Monster, Nike 6.0, Skull Candy, Giro) 90.00
4    Sammy Carlson, USA (Rockstar, Salomon, Oakley) 89.00
5    Charles Gagnier, CAN (Salomon, Spy, Bula) 89.00
6    Per-Kristian Hunder, NOR (K2, Helly Hansen, Dragon, Kombi, Sweet) 89.00
7    Simon Dumont, USA (Red Bull, Salomon, Oakley) 85.00
8    Nick Martini, USA (Salomon) 85.00
9    Mike Riddle, CAN (Smith, DaKIne, Skull Candy) 83.00
10    Bobby Brown, USA (Salomon, Smith, Under Armour) 82.00
11    Matt Walker, USA (Salomon, Scott, Skull Candy) 79.00
12    Russ Henshaw, AUS (Volkl, Red Bull, Marker) 79.00

DEW TOUR 2009 SLOPESTYLE OVERALL RESULTS
Rank    Name                             Breckinridge    Mount Snow   Tahoe   Total Points
1     PK Hunder, NOR   75        90        65    230
       (K2, Helly Hansen, Dragon, Kombi, Sweet)
2    Alexis Godbout, CAN       50        80        90    220
       (Salomon, Scott)
3    Jossi Wells, NZ        90        35        80    205
       (Atomic, Oakley, Monster, Nike 6.0, Skull Candy, Giro)
3    Bobby Brown, USA        100        60        45    205
       (Salomon, Smith, Under Armour)
5    Sammy Carlson, USA        35        75        75    185
       (Rockstar, Salomon, Oakley)
6    Henrik Harlaut, SWE       80        70        20    170
       (Ninthward, Scott, Salomon, Jiberish, Skull Candy)
7    JF Houle, CAN           65        100        0    165
       (Dalbello, Spy, D-Structure, Volkl)
8    Simon Dumont, USA       60        26        60    146
       (Red Bull, Salomon, Oakley)
9    Charles Gagnier, CAN       22        45        70    137
   (Salomon, Spy, Bula)
10    Nick Martini, USA       16        65        55    136
       (Salomon)

Alex Bellemare wins Telus Triple Challenge Slopestyle

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 20:33:00 -0500

The slopestyle competition today was a great kick off to one of the best competitions in Canada. Crews drove, flew and walked to Blue Mountain to ski a beautifully crafted course in sunny spring conditions. It wasn't long before everyone was throwing down on the various rails and jumps and the finals were underway. In the end, Alex Bellemare ended up taking 1st place and winning 500$ with a switch 9 double-muted, disaster 450 on to switch out on the flat down, to a switch 10 mute and finished with a switch 270 on pretzel 270 off. Gabriel Boudreau was able to secure second place with stylish tail grabs while Mike Mertion finished in third with his solid jumping game. Stay posted tomorrow for an update on the rail jam and check back in a week for a wrap-up of the whole event.

Men's Amateur Ski

Jordan Innes

Issac Vickers

Alexander Mathers

Men's Pro Ski

Alex Bellemare

Gabriel Boudreau

Mike Mertion

Women's Pro

Kylie Sivell

Jessica Warll

Dara Howell

SIA Trade-show Denver 2013

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 03:43:00 -0500

This past week, the SIA tradehow happened in Denver, Colorado.

The SIA tradeshow is the biggest snow-sports trade show in the world. It is where every conceivable skiing or snowboarding brand comes to showcase their latest and greatest new products. It’s a place where there is no need to ask “is that next years model?” because they surely are.

Everyone wants to check out whats new... including 40 foot tall Blue Bears.

Eira's brilliant campaign "pillow talk" starring Chug, Joe, and the Peter-man.

Orage threw some parties at their really really good-looking booth.

Ski hero and legend Glen Plake explains what is new in the Dalbello boot line-up.

Oakley showcases their products.

The new Simon Dumont Set-up.

Sean Pettit's Pro Model outerwear.

Nordica's Rory Bushfield pro-model, the "Bushy Wayne" has us really stoked!!

Same with the TJ Schiller pro-model boot. ... This thing looks sweet. No wonder Nordica threw a nice release party for the two pro models.

Brian Shroy takes us through the SHRED line-up .

Icedot is a cool feature in their helmets.

and useful if the wearer is stricken unconscious.

MyPakage's Dez Price lets us know you just have to try a pair to be a believer... and for anyone out there who still hasn't tried MyPakage, take our word for it. These are the Best!!!

Mans best friend.

Atomic's new park line.

Salomon's ski lineup was so rad that we had to put them sideways!! We cannot wait to ge these between us and a few feet of fresh.

Pleasure-makers!

Salomon aslo has an extensive goggle line.

Goggles for everyone, and some of them are pretty pimp.

4FRNT's Matt Sterbenz

Pros and their pro model skis. . .

K2 had a water giant water tank, probably filled with beer.

Faction is getting into the outerwear scene.

Nothing better than a poutine station when your feet are tired from standing all day. Instant recharge.

ELECTRIC sporting their new logo.

Next years best goggles right here.

... and did we mention that Electric is making helmets now!?!?!?!

And right accross from Electric was the Volcom booth... whcih to nobody's surprise was the most exciting booth which turned out to be a nonstop party!!

Spy's Daryl Trinidad shows us the "Happy" innovation and their goggle line up with pop-out lenses.

And the JF Houle pro model.

Probably the coolest outerwear brand we saw all weekend was at the Tomahawk booth. With guys like Parker White on the team, its probably the most stylish too. Black, get it?

Bad-assed.

DJ Largechild knew exactly what to do... party. Wait, that's your job isn't it?

Lights Out was one of the more exciting parties of the weekend, as industry heavyweights and pros squared off in fist-to-face boxing combat.

Danny and the Dingo kept things interesting as hosts, while DJ Largechild kept the beats going outside the ring.

But the highlight for everyone was SBC's Matt Aiken!!! Matt showed no fear

even though he was up against a giant man; Alex Lessard.

It was one hell of a match. Matt got mad respect from everone and kept the fight going and going. We are proud of him!!

And then we hustled over to PENNYWISE!!! Jim and Fletcher ramp it up !!!

So there you have it. SIA was a major success. an incredible showcase of brands. . .

. . . some not so incredible ones.

Unique parties that will have us talking for years.

Goodnight Denver.

See you next time!

IF3 - Another one in the bag

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 16:12:00 -0400

That’s it for another IF3. The ski season has officially been kicked off and everybody was stoked as can be.

There was no end to the epic fims, concerts, and parties. Everyone who came out had a great time- they think.

Chunk, Ferg, Sean, and Heni. Ready for action.

Top pros and industry big shots all gather for good times at IF3.

This years outdoor screening venue stayed up all weekend. It was just across from the theatre and beside the hotel and Couche Tard. Talk about convienience.

Wiley Miller gives his seal of approval - the thumbs up. He starred in a few of the films this year.

Sandy Boville and his talented crew win big at the Nike IF3 Awards. ... Although some of the highlights came via the hilarious Luke Van Valin's emceeing.

The sun goes down over the IF3 venue as the excitement builds for the biggest film premiers and the evening’s festivities.

Mike Riddle and KC Dean are very impressed. No doot aboot it.

Inspired: Eric Iberg, H

Girls Day Out

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 21:23:00 -0500

This weekend Revelstoke Mountain Resort will be hosting its third annual Girls Day Out. Gents be warned - you are not welcome here. Lady shredders of all ages and ability levels are getting together for a jam-packed, inspirational freeski weekend. Girls Day Out is founded and directed by freeski pro Leah Evans and includes two full days of professional ski coaching, workshops, and yoga. After RMR the event will later travel to Kicking Horse Mountain Resort and will be newly held by heliski operation Selkirk Tangiers.

Girls Day Out started as a weekend to inspire and encourage female prominence in the freeski world. After last season’s tragic loss of freeskier Sarah Burke, Evans feels particularly motivated to push this mandate. Revamped workshops will be conducted around inspiration, whoever or whatever that may mean to each skier. On top of the workshops, Evans developed delicate ‘inspire’ necklaces to act as a tokens of appreciation for the people in our lives that inspire us most - proceeds funding female youth skiers.

To the lucky ladies set to participate this weekend at RMR, we’re sure you’ll ski away with two strong, confident legs and one big heart of inspiration. The rest of us look forward to the event’s video, set to be released January 23rd. Check out www.girlsdoski.com for more information and find a link to support female freeskiing by getting your own ‘inspire’ necklace.

Canada's TJ Schiller Wins X Games Slopestyle

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Canada’s TJ Schiller edged out American favourites Sammy Carlson and Colby West to take the X-Games Slopestyle Men’s gold. TJ’s victory topped the X-Games as the most exciting and sweetest comeback story. Coming off a long recovery from knee injury, TJ gained an 11th hour X-Games entry after top ranked fellow Canadian JF Houle broke his ankle in practice, and then Jacob Wester and Jon Olsson became last minute drop outs.

"Last year I blew out my knee and it was a long road to recovery. To win the X Games is the ultimate comeback," the native of Vernon, BC, Canada enthused. "To come in as an alternate and to stand here as the winner is great, I am so stoked!" TJ claimed the title on his first run that featured a 270 on and off the opening rail, switch onto the butter box with the only rodeo 540 off, rodeo 720 off the cannon box, a huge right side 900 mute over the channel gap, wrapping with a switch 1080 mute.

TJ Schiller. Zuccareno photo

Sammy Carlson’s silver medal run featured tech rail tricks, followed by a switch 1080 poke, a huge cab 900 over the channel gap, and finished with a 1260 on the last hit. Colby West, who led the Slopestyle qualifying, threw a huge switch misty 900 over the channel gap, and a big cork 900 on the money booter to score third. "I am happy with third," West said. "After I fell on my second run, I saw the way TJ and Sammy skied. I am happy to be on the podium."

Sammy Carlson. Zuccareno photo

Norway’s Andreas Hatveit, the 2008 X-Games Slopestyle champ, finished fourth followed by Canada’s Phil Casabon in fifth. American Bobby Brown, another last minute entry after Tanner Hall dropped out scored sixth.

Men's Slopestyle podium (L to R): Sammy Carlson, TJ Schiller, Colby West. Zuccareno photo

RESULTS – X-GAMES MEN’S SLOPESTYLE
1. TJ Schiller, Vernon, BC, CAN (Monster, Orage, Armada, Dragon) 93.00
2. Sammy Carlson, Hood River, OR, USA (Rockstar, Salomon, Oakley) 91.00
3. Colby West, Breckinridge, CO, USA (Monster, Giro, Empire) 90.00
4. Andreas Hatveit, Sudndalen, NOR (Atomic) 89.00
5. Phil Casabon, Shawinigan, BC, CAN (Orage, Oakley, Armada) 86.33
6. Bobby Brown, Breckenridge, CO, USA (Salomon, Smith, Under Armour) 81.33
7. Matt Walker, Aspen, CO, USA (Salomon, Scott, Skull Candy) 78.00
8. Charles Gagnier, Victoriaville, QC, CAN (Salomon, Spy, Bula) 72.00

Sarah Burke Memorial Goggle from Smith Optics

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 16:36:00 -0500

Smith Optics just released a limited quantity of their Sarah Burke memorial I/OS goggles. There's only 180 pair available through SmithOptics.com and all proceeds will go directly to the Sarah Burke Foundation. The I/OS was Sarah's favourite goggle in the collection. The Sarah Burke Memorial I/OS is inspired by her snowflake tattoo and her favourite colours.  

The Sarah Burke Foundation was created to help young kids get to the next level in skiing as well as raise money for St. Jude’s Hospital, Sarah’s favourite charity.   Sarah was a beloved member of Smith. More than just an athlete or friend, she was family and an inspiration to all of us. Help carry on her legacy by living your life with passion, dedication, and grace. As Sarah would say, "Dream without Fear."

For more information visit: www.smithoptics.com/celebratesarah

Vincent Prevost and Jessica Warll Win The Canadian Shield at Blue Mountain

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 11:55:00 -0500

The Canadian Shield slopestyle contest took place at Blue Mountain on Saturday. Drawing skiers from all over the country to compete for a share of the $10,000.00 cash purse and a chance to gain series points. The men's pro division saw an incredibly high caliber of skiing go down and when the snow settled Quebec native Vincent Prevost captured the win. He also took home the SBC Skier Standout Trick award for the Switch Double 10 he landed clean at the end of his winning run. On the ladies side, Jessica Warll dominated the pro women's division all day and ultimately captured the win as well the women's SBC Skier Standout Trick award with a Rodeo 7. Check out some photos and the full podium results below and be sure to check back on Tuesday for video coverage from the contest.

SBC Skier Standout Trick Award Winners Jessica Warll and Vincent Prevost

Pro Men's Division Podium:

1. Vincent Prevost (Nordica, Orage)

2. Sandy Boville (Moment, Kombi, Spy)

3. Gabriel Boudreau (Rossignol)

Pro Women's Division Podium:

1. Jessica Warll ( 4Frnt)

2. Olivia Lane (K2)

3. Shondra Charbonneau (Head)

Amateur Men's Divisiom Podium:

1. Pierre Beaudet

2. Olivier Montour

3. Spencer Gagnier

Amateur Women's Division Podium:

1. Rachael Anderson

2. Marianne Tremblay

Boy's 15 & Under Podium:

1. Billy Berthiaume

2. Frederik Pratte

3. Christian Stormgaard

Girl's 15 & Under Podium:

1. Gillian Golosky

2. Carly Lavieille

3. Darcy Malone

Winter XGames 2013 Wrap up

Tue, 29 Jan 2013 18:57:00 -0500

Mother goose, what a time it was. We are just winding down from another Winter X-Games, and all that means is anticipation can start for next years. Its hard to believe what we saw in this years’ competitions. We definitely caught a glimpse of where the sport of freeskiing is heading, and it is really, really awesome.

There are too many highlights to mention like Henrik Harlaut’s nose butter triple cork 1620, Gus Kenworthy’s switch triple rodeo japan, and Alex Shlopy’s attempts at a 1980 in big air. Superpipe saw Joffrey Pollet-Villard’s massive 23+ foot ally-oop flat 5 on his third hit (after 2 first switch hits), and Simon Dumont’s impressive 3^rd place performance after breaking both wrists last month. Slopestyle was a dizzying array of pure talent with some of the underdogs taking down the favorites. Nick Goepper took top spot with a well-deserved and flawless run, Henrik Harlaut was rewarded for his style and ingenuity with second place, and James Woods snatched third place from Canadian Alex Bellmare who landed in 4^th but was hot on the heels of that podium.

Over the weekend Jossi Wells (Chinchiller) and Colby West (MC Sabretooth) were busy filming their new music video that is set to drop soon. I guarantee that if you are reading this post you will not be able to avoid seeing it once it is released. It was also beautiful to feel the love and spirit of Sarah Burke in the air as athletes and fans alike boasted Sarah stickers and shared their memories of her with everyone. Her husband Rory Bushfield and father Gord Burke were also on hand.

There was no shortage of nightlife this weekend as all of the athletes, industry guests, and Aspenites were out in full force to celebrate the biggest event in action snow sports. There were parties at all the bars and mansions, with some of music’s hottest artists giving performances.

Check out the SBCSKIER.com to see all the details of what went down.

Pipe Finals

Anticipation for it to all go down.

Joffrey Pollet-Villard

Torin Yater-Wallace stops to take pictures with some fans

Jeff Schmuck and the rest of the crowd look on and witness greatness

The Dumont back on the X-Games podium, broken wirsts and all

Yater-Wallace (2nd), Weiss (1st), and Dumont (3rd)

Rosalind Groenewoud (2nd), Maddie Bowman (1st), Megan Gunning (3rd)

Simon Dumont throws his goggles and t-shirt into the crowd...

Straight to his friends Peter Olenick and DJ Largechild ... with Michael Olenick

Colby West aka MC Sabretooth after wrapping the hot tub scene for his new music video. Beatmaster DJ Largechild wonders what Colby is wearing.

Trouble Andrew and Trouble Gang members DJing in the Lodge at the top of Aspen

DJ Largechild loves agrees with Tom that sliders can do no wrong

Dj Largechild : 1's and 2's

Trouble Gang

... and thankfully ResQ Water was supplied to all to stay feeling good and hydrated after the longs nights. Unitl next year, goodbye Aspen.

Whistler Ski Invitational Big Air Finals

Sun, 19 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0400

Whistler, BC – The crowd favourite Ski Invitational Big Air kicked off Whistler’s Telus World Ski & Snowboard Festival in grand style last night featuring a hard charging collection of the world’s best. They did not disappoint the throngs of cheering fans, the lucky ones who watched from the outdoor patios of Whistler's famous bars that ring the "Skier's Plaza" at the mountain base.

After a sick semi-final round, the judges had the unenviable task of narrowing the field down to a 10 man super final featuring: Canadians TJ Schiller, Mike Mertion, Kris Atkinson, Ian Cosco and Austin Ross; Americans LJ Strenio and James Colby West; New Zealand’s Jossi Wells; Sweden’s Jacob Wester; and
Japan’s Shinji Osada. Photo: Big Air winners Shinji Osada (left); and Roz Groenewoud

The soft landing claimed more than a few in the semis and TJ Schiller and Austin Ross in the finals. When the slush–spray settled it was Japan’s Shinji Osada stealing the show and the $10,000 cheque with a stomped switch 1440, followed by the very smooth Jacob Wester, and LJ Strenio in third. Mike Mertion and Kris Atkinson were close behind in 4th and 5th respectively.

Jacob Wester (above) commented: "Super sick night here in Whistler. The level was completely out of hand as usual nowadays. Huge props to Shinji Osada who came out of nowhere and stomped a switch 14 to take the win."

Calgary’s Roz Groenewoud delivered a huge 1080 to take the women’s first place cheque for $2,000 followed by Maiko Hara of Japan in 2nd, and fellow Calgarian Megan Gunning in 3rd.

Action shifts next to the Orage Masters (slopestyle) in Blackcomb's famed park with teams from Dynastar, Armada, K2, 4FRNT, Line, CoreUPT, Vokll and Surface.

MEN’S BIG AIR FINALS
1 – $10,000 Shinji Osada, Japan (Strictly)
2 Jacob Wester, Sweden (Armada, Oakley, Dalbello)
3 LJ Strenio, Burlington, VT (Line, Scot,t EC headwear, jibij
4 Mike Mertion, Vernon, BC Ripcurl, Faction, Seirus, Dalbello
5 Kris Atkinson, Calgary, AB (Mountain Culture)
6 Ian Cosco, Vernon, BC (Monster, Atomic, Scott, Jiberish, Skullcandy)
7 Colby West, Breckenridge, CO, USA (Monster, Giro, Technica)
8 Eric Hughes, Park City, UT (Volkl, Marker, Scott)
9 Austin Ross, Whistler, BC
10 TJ Schiller , Vernon, BC, CAN (Monster, Orage, Armada, Dragon)

WOMEN BIG AIR FINALS
1 – $2,000 Roz Groenewoud, Calgary, AB ((Rossignol, Electric, Spyder) Huge 1080 $2000
2 Maiko Hara, Japan Strictly Ski Shop Jiro Skins Giro Dalbello
3 Megan Gunning, Calgary, Alberta (Salomon)

TJ Schiller

Colby West

Jossi Wells

Big Air crowd, Skier's Plaza, Whistler

The Whistler Ski Invitational Big is sponsored is part by Telus, Pontiac, Zune, Coca-Cola, Kokanee, Dose.ca, SBC SKIER Magazine, The Score, and Freeskier Magazine.

Canada's Bilodeau Golden In Olympic Moguls

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Cypress Mountain, Vancouver, B.C. – Alex Bilodeau has won Canada’s first ever Olympic gold medal on home snow (or soil)! The 22 year old from Rosemere, Quebec led a strong Canadian team charge through the Moguls qualifications. In the finals he stomped two huge jumps, including a double back full, and combined flawless turns and the second fastest time to convincingly take the gold over reigning Olympic champ Dale Begg-Smith representing Australia.

"It was the most ready I've ever been,"enthused Bilodeau following the win. "I just let it happen – let it go!
For me everything was perfect!" Photo: Streeter Lecka/Getty Images

Left to right: Dale Begg-Smith (3rd); Alex Bilodeau (1st); Bryon Wilson (2nd).
Photo: Streeter Lecka/Getty Images

American Bryon Wilson took the bronze in a breakout performance, narrowly edging out Canadians Vincent Marquis (4th) and Pierre Alexandre Rousseau (5th). It was an inspiring powerhouse performance by the Canadians – even more impressive considering that Begg-Smith is Canadian born and raised.

“The Canadian Team is so strong,” said Bilodeau. “The party is just starting for Canada!”

Alex Bilodeau enroute to a historic Olympic gold. Photo: Jamie Squire/Getty Images

MEN’S OLYMPIC MOGULS RESULT
1. Gold – Alexandre Bilodeau CAN (Oakley, Hart) 26.75 pts
2. Silver –Dale Begg-Smith AUS (Oakley) 26.58 pts
3. Bronze – Bryon Wilson USA (Bolle, Hart) 26.08 pts
4. Vincent Marquis, CAN (Oakley, Elan) 25.88 pts
5. Pierre Alexandre Rousseau CAN (Oakley, Hart) 25.83 pts
11. Maxime Gingras CAN (Head) 24.13 pts

Red Bull Ski Kings

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 12:19:00 -0500

Red Bull Jib Ski Kings which originally began in Italy in 2011 makes it's North American debut in 2013 at Cypress Mountain, BC, Canada, on March 9th.

Using the natural terrain and incorporating existing features on the hill, this participatory ski contest encourages competitors to “think outside the box”. Multiple transitions into various hits, unique jib-inspired features and personal creativity will help competitors score big during this contest which promotes a more individual approach to park skiing.

Two features specifically designed and built by Red Bull for the event will be part of the course and will remain on hill for the duration of the season.

Register: here

Facebook Event

Schedule (tentative):

Registration Opens at 8:00am

Training Begins at 9:00am

Contest Begins at 10:30am

Prizing:

Cash and product up for grabs at the inaugural Red Bull Jib-Ski Kings.

a.) $2,000 cash prizing for the Top 3 men plus additional prizing from Oakley and Cypress Mountain

b.)$1,000 cash prizing for the Top 3 women plus additional prizing from Oakley and Cypress Mountain

Judging:

Red Bull Jib-Ski Kings is an open, jam format event with 80 spots available to men and 20 spots for women.

a.) Judging panel lead by Red Bull athletes Sean Petitt

b.) Creativity is key - judges will be scoring high in this regard

c.) Jam Format taking the field from 80 men and 20 women to 10 finalists

d.) Riders judged on: number of features used, variety of tricks, execution/style, use of the terrain and overall creativity.

Justin Dorey Out for the Season

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 11:13:00 -0500

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA (January 22, 2013) – On the eve of X Games, the Canadian Freestyle Ski Association announced today that National Halfpipe Team member Justin Dorey will undergo surgery to repair damaged ligaments in his left shoulder and will not compete for the rest of the season.

Dorey suffers from recurrent shoulder dislocation, which began last year when he crashed during his final run at X Games. Since that initial injury, Dorey’s shoulder has dislocated numerous times; but it was a fall in training last week in Breckenridge that was the deciding factor for surgery.

“When I fell training in Breck I did more damage than the other dislocations and I tore more ligaments, so I need to get it taken care of now,” said a disappointed Dorey.

Team doctors expect Dorey, who was the Association of Freeskiing Professionals World Champion in 2011, to make a full recovery following surgery and for him to be able to return to halfpipe training in three to four months.

However, because he won’t be competing at any more events this season, he will not be eligible for early, or ‘Method A’, nomination to the Canadian Olympic Team for Sochi under the CFSA selection protocol.

To qualify for early selection an athlete must podium in at least two of five designated competitions this season; Dorey won the first targeted event, the Dew Cup in January, but now will not have an opportunity to compete in any of the others this season.

“This wasn’t in my plan,” said the 23-year-old Whistlerite. “I’m obviously really disappointed, I wanted to get in [to the Olympics] through Method A, so this is a definite bump in the road. But, I’m still in a good position to qualify through Method B next season.”

Indeed, under the CFSA’s ‘Method B’ selection criteria, Dorey already has one podium out of four required placings to earn him a spot on the team. And, under the CFSA injury clause, if he misses 75 percent of this season’s eligible competitions due to injury, he may be able to use a podium position from last season in those four required placings. However, the pressure will be on in 2013/14, when he will have to add at least two more results towards his Olympic bid before the FIS cutoff at the end of January.

Acknowledged as one of the most talented athletes in the men’s halfpipe field, Dorey, who has participated in the last eight X Games, was also understandably disappointed to be missing that high profile action sport competition. “It's definitely going to be hard for me to watch from the sidelines this year but I'm still looking forward to watching my buddies kill it this week,” he said of Friday’s halfpipe final.

Dorey will be available for media interviews following his surgery, which is expected to take place in the next two weeks.

Wallisch Leads Tahoe Dew Tour Slopestyle Prelims

Sat, 21 Feb 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Six Canadians in Top 20 – If you don’t follow freeskiing, I’m sorry you’re missing out because what went down Friday in the Slopestyle Prelims at Northstar-at-Tahoe Dew Tour was something of pure beauty. To say the least, everyone here at the media lounge is flipping out with excitement for Saturday’s Men’s Slopestyle Final.

Pittsburgh native Tom Wallisch stepped into the start tent Friday morning and never looked back. His heat-one score of 91.17 grabbed the top of the board and didn't budge all afternoon. Some of the industry's most well known, accomplished and respected riders tried and tried again to hack away at Wallisch’s perfect run. In the end, even Winter X Games 13 Gold medalist Simon Dumont, whose 88.83 stood a fat two points below Wallisch. In third place came Canadian Alexis Godbout, who was nearly out of the mix before nailing a right 9 into switch 1260 on the last two hits; for his tech work in his second and final run, Alexis stood in a close third-place finish at 88.50.

Tom Wallisch Men's Slopestyle leader after prelimns

What’s astounding to say the least, is how Wallisch didn’t have much to say about his flawless performance today. “I don’t know. I’m just having fun,” he said in the Winter Dew Tour Athletes' Lounge. “The course is not very big, but the features are super fun, and there’s a lot of room for variety," he said. "I switched up my run the second time and I guess that did it.”

Wallisch, who rose to fame after winning the Level 1 Superunknown contest IV three years ago with a YouTube video of his skiing, did indeed “switch up his run” by tossing in a Rodeo 6 and Rodeo 9 off the first rail and cannon pipe and a smooth (and I mean baby’s bottom smooth) switch right 10 to switch left 10 on the last two hits.

Fellow Slopestyle Prelim skiers standing course-side during Wallisch’s second run were nothing short of hyped. They proclaimed Tom's run "amazing”, and his style “heavenly”. Others took it a step further: “He’s a god”, “why don’t they just give him the cash now?”

Beyond Wallisch, the first heat featured Kiwi Josiah Wells' perfect 450s onto the metal and Aussie Russ Henshaw's rightside cork 900 into double cork 1080 with the mute grab (the latter which he learned only two months ago). Dumont, who was fighting back the flu all morning, tossed in a 1260 on the last hit after cranking 10’s all morning. And Derek Spong, 18, whose techy switch left 10 into switch right 10 nearly rivaled Wallisch's.

Trying to calm myself from the madness I witnessed during heat-one, I smashed down a PB&J (yeah, I make my lunch at home) and a Dew Voltage before heat two began. It didn’t work.

Nick Martini sparked off heat-two with a 85.33-earning run, which included a Rodeo 6 to Right 7 to 270 Disaster to Left 9. By finishing off with back-to-back switch 10s, he slid himself into fourth place, just behind Wells.

The last five riders of the day launched the battle for third place. Surge leader 23-year-old Canadian Charles Gagnier snagged an 86.17, who was followed closely by Mike Riddle--yesterday’s Men’s Superpipe number-one qualifier--who threw down a run that included his version of the flat 540. Let's slow things down here a sec; Riddle's signature "Barrow" is a combination flatspin truck driver grab which he tweaks out to make it look as if he's shooting a bow and arrow mid-spin). Riddle’s 86.50 edged out Gagnier just before Sammy “The Crow” Carlson dropped in with a 450 disaster. Carlson moved to sixth, from where he pushed Philip Casabon out of contention, and Anders Backe to tenth place.

The ultimate run--and one of the best all day--belonged to Alexis Godbout. His switch backlip 270 on the first rail and right 900 to switch 1260 on the last hits were just a few of Québécois's exploits that led the judges to award him an 88.50--a score high enough to send Anders Backe hiking home to Vikersund, yet ultimately three-tenths below Simon's 88.83.

Today (Saturday) the 10 men below will battle it out with slopestyle top pre-quailifers Bobby Brown and Per-Kristian Hunter added to the mix. JF Houle, who was recently injured during X-Games practice, will be absent from the California slopes, which leaves open not only an extra entrance to the Final, but another spot on the podium, as well. As for who’s going to fill it? It’s anyone’s guess. As for me, I'm heading straight home to a cold shower.

DEW TOUR – TAHOE SLOPESTYLE MEN’S PRELIM RESULTS

1. Tom Wallisch, USA (Skull Candy, Amplid, Spy, Kombi, Jiberish) 91.17

2. Simon Dumont, USA (Red Bull, Salomon, Oakley) 88.83

3. Alexis Godbout, CAN (Salomon, Scott) 88.50

4. Mike Riddle, CAN (Smith, DaKIne, Skull Candy) 86.50

5. Charles Gagnier, CAN (Salomon, Spy, Bula) 86.17

6. Josiah Wells, NZ (Atomic, Oakley, Monster, Nike 6.0, Skull Candy, Giro) 85.67

7. Sammy Carlson, USA (Rockstar, Salomon, Oakley) 85.50

8. Nick Martini, USA (Salomon) 85.33

9. Russ Henshaw, AUS (Volkl, Red Bull, Marker) 85.17

10. Matt Walker, USA (Salomon, Scott, Skull Candy) 83.00

11. Anders Backe, NOR (Electric, POC, Level, Skull Candy) 82.00

12. Philip Casabon, CAN (Orage, Oakley, Armada) 81.00

13. Gus Kenworthy, USA (Smith, CoreUPT, Skull Candy) 80.50

14. Derek Spong, USA (Fischer, Oakley) 80.33

15. Oscar Scherlin, SWE (Head, Oakley, Kombi, Red Bull) 79.17

16. Henrik Harlaut, SWE (Ninthward, Scott, Salomon, Jiberish, Skull Candy) 79.00

17. Sean Jordan, USA (Lib Tech, Bern) 77.50

18. TJ Schiller, CAN (Monster, Orage, Armada, Dragon) 76.50

19. Banks Gilberti, USA (Line, Orage, Anon, Red, Level) 74.17

20. Matt Margetts, CAN (K2, Orage, Smith) 73.33

Whistler Blackcomb Opening Day 2012

Sun, 18 Nov 2012 15:51:00 -0500

WHISTLER, BC, Saturday, November 17, 2012 – Thanks to cool temperatures, impressive snowmaking and natural snowfall Whistler Mountain opened today, Saturday, November 17, five days early. The excited first guests of the season were greeted with ten centimetres of fresh snow, a live drum line act in Whistler Village, and the lucky first 1500 people to upload either gondola received a free gift. Tokens ranged from hot chocolates to big ticket items like EDGE Cards, Snow School lessons, retail and rental gifts and surprises from partners including, Scandinave Spa Whistler, The Adventure Group Whistler, Extremely Canadian, Canadian Snowmobile, Coast Mountain Photography, CAN-SKI, Showcase, Powerade and Milk2Go.

Upwards of 40 centimetres of snow is forecasted in the next five days. Blackcomb Mountain will open, as scheduled, on American Thanksgiving, Thursday, November 22, 2012.

About Whistler Blackcomb

Whistler Blackcomb, the official alpine skiing venue for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, is situated in the Resort Municipality of Whistler located in the Coast Mountains of British Columbia 125 kilometres (78 miles) from Vancouver, British Columbia. North America’s premier four season mountain resort, Whistler and Blackcomb are two side-by-side mountains which combined offer over 200 marked runs, 8,171 acres of terrain, 16 alpine bowls, three glaciers, receives on average over 1,192 centimetres (469 inches) of snow annually, and one of the longest ski seasons in North America. In the summer, Whistler Blackcomb offers a variety of activities, including hiking and biking trails, the Whistler Mountain Bike Park, and sightseeing on the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola.

For more information, visit http://ww1.whistlerblackcomb.com/media

Turski and Howell Pick Up X Games Silver and Bronze

Sun, 27 Jan 2013 21:34:00 -0500

ASPEN, COLORADO (January 26, 2013) – Canada’s women added two more medals to their 2013 X Games cache today as Kaya Turski and Dara Howell picked up silver and bronze in a challenging women’s slopestyle event.

“I’m so excited about the silver medal … and relieved,” said Turski who didn’t get the X Games four-peat, but did pull off one of the most brilliant comebacks of her freeski career to day to get on the podium.

Turski was sitting in last place when she dropped for her final run in the best-of-three format, after having problems with the second feature on the course.

“You know, the second rail kind of messed with me, it’s so silly, I feel like it’s often the features you don’t even think twice about that give you a hard time and today they did,” said the Montreal-native who won the previous three X Games and who is known for her prowess on the rails.

To add to the excruciating pressure, while Turski was waiting to drop the rider before her, Ashley Battersby from the US, crashed on her final jump and injured her leg. The course was held for almost an hour while medics attended to Ashley and Turski waited in the start gate.

This was the second serious injury and course hold of the day for the women, as Rose Battersby (no relation) of New Zealand was taken to hospital following a serious fall in training. Rose’s condition is not known at this time.

“It was for sure a little bit of a mind game and the course changes a little over that time too,” explained Turski. But despite the circumstances, she rallied with an excellent run to catapult her onto the podium with a score of 90.00. Tirill Sjastad Christiansen of Norway was the winner at 92.33.

The silver medal was only part of the celebration for Turski, who achieved a personal milestone by competing an off-axis trick in today’s competition. The trick is called a rodeo 540 and she performed it flawlessly off the second jump in the three rail, four jump course.

When she was uncharacteristically kept out of the medals earlier in the month at the Copper Grand Prix, she said she knew it was time to pull out something different, “The Grand Prix kicked me in the butt a little bit and kind of woke me up. I knew I needed to bring to competition some of the off-axis stuff I have been working on and this was the time. Here I had my awesome coaching staff around and all those guys gave me the confidence I needed, and I knew I had to pull it out, so I did and I’m really proud of myself for doing it.

“It’s great to have my limits pushed. It’s obviously a challenge, but that’s why I ski -- to push the limits of women’s freeski and to push myself. I feel so honored and excited to be part of such a fast-growing and cool sport that’s going to blow up. These girls, my friends, they keep me on my toes and it really keeps the edge going. I’m a competitive girl and I think the year ahead of me is going to be really good.

Teammate Dara Howell is one of the only other women in the world who performs a rodeo 540. The trick helped her score 89.33 in her second run, enough to match her bronze position from Euro X in 2012.

“I’m really happy to be on the podium and I landed the run from Dew Tour that I fell on so that’s great, but I did make a few mistakes here,” said Howell who was fifth at December’s Dew Cup. “I missed my grabs a little bit, but I’m happy to be on the podium. I definitely want to keep progressing, progression is huge for me, I want to keep pushing the sport and pushing myself and today was a run I knew I could put down and I just have to get those grabs better for next time.”

Yuki Tsubota gave a solid rookie performance. The Pemberton, B.C. native landed in sixth with a score of 87.66.

On Friday, Canada’s women’s halfpipe skiers Rosalind Groenewoud and Megan Gunning also earned silver and gold at their X Games event, bringing Canada's total here to four medals.

The winner of today’s men’s event was Nick Goepper of the US who scored 94.00 on his final run. Henrick Harlaut of Sweden was second at 92.66 and Great Britain’s James Woods scored 92.00 for the bronze.

Canada’s only entry into finals, Alex Bellemare, threw down and impressive third run, but just missed the podium with a score of 90.66, for fourth place.

The 19-year-old from Shawinigan, Que. had a clean run and performed one of the coolest rail tricks in the competition, a misty 450 off the gap rail -- essentially he came off the rail sideways and performed a loop to land backwards, but it just wasn’t enough to sneak onto the podium.

Noah Morrison of Vernon, B.C. and Alex Beaulieu-Marchand of Quebec City finished 13^th and 15^th, respectively, in the elimination round.

	Name	Bib #	Hometown	Score
1.	Tiril Sjastad Christiansen	755	Geilo, NOR	92.33
2.	Kaya Turski	760	Montreal, QB, CAN	90.00
3.	Dara Howell	757	Hunstville, ON, CAN	89.33
4.	Ashley Battersby	754	Chicago, IL	88.66
5.	Keri Merman	756	Breckenridge, CO	88.33
6.	Yuki Tsubota	759	Whistler, BC, CAN	87.66
7.	Jamie Crane-Mauzy	761	Park City, UT	74.33

Xavier Bertoni Wins X Games Halfpipe

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 00:00:00 -0500

In perhaps the most epic ski pipe contest ever, France’s Xavier Bertoni edged out the favoured Americans, Tanner Hall the defending and three-time X-Games Pipe Champ and perennial runner up Simon Dumont. Canada’s Justin Dorey followed in fourth.

Tanner, gracious in second, declared the night finals, which was broadcast live around the world (except in Canada), one of the greatest for skiing! “It was crazy that I had to throw down my third run and stick it. I did the best I could to throw it down! This was such a great night for skiing!”

The 540 ft long X-Games Superpipe was one of the sickest, most perfect pipes ever featuring 22 ft high walls that were 75 ft lip-to-lip, set on an 18 degree pitch. The result was speed and massive amplitude for the world’s best skiers to showcase pipe progression.

X Games Podium, left to right: Tanner Hall, Xavier Bertoni, Simon Dumont. Bakke photo

Bertoni delivered flawless 1260s, switch 720s, 9s and alley-oop flat spin 360s in his runs going bigger than everyone, except perhaps Dumont. Definitely some of the biggest switch hits ever stomped. For his part, Hall threw down huge double flips on his first hit, a big 12, 9s, his trademark alley-oop flatspin 3, and a switch 7 at the bottom. As expected Dumont went bigger than anyone and nailed a massively smooth 1260, plus huge 9s and a perfect switch 10 at the bottom. In the end, though Bertoni prevailed by seeming to perfectly blend the best of Hall’s technical skill with Dumont’s huge amplitude. But it was close and an exciting see saw battle right until the end!

Tanner Hall. McCririck photo

Simon Dumont. McCririck photo

Tanner Hall congratulates Xavier Bertoni. McCririck photo

The X-Games Women’s Pipe Finals take place tonight with Canada’s Sarah Burke, the defending champ going for a third gold in a row. Ski Big Air goes Saturday night and then it’s the much anticipated Slopestyle on Sunday, along with SkierX.

X-GAMES SUPERPIPE RESULTS
1. Xavier Bertoni, La Clusaz, France (Rossignol, Giro) 93.66
2. Tanner Hall, Kalispell, MO, USA (Red Bull, Armada, Oakley)   92.00
3. Simon Dumont, Bethel, Maine, USA (Red Bull, Salomon, Oakley)   91.00
4. Justin Dorey, Vernon, BC, Canada (Dynastar, Scott, Lange) 83.33
5. Colby West, Breckenridge, CO, USA (Monster, Giro, Technica)   79.33
6. Duncan Adams, Breckenridge, CO, USA (Dynastar, Spy, Spyder)   74.66
7. AJ Kemppainen, Kuusamo, Finland (Salomon, Oakley) 72.33
8. Kevin Rolland, La Plagne, France (Rossignol)   50.00

ROLLAND WINS X-GAMES PIPE WITH INCREDIBLE RUN

Sun, 31 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Aspen, CO – Kevin Rolland of France grabbed X-Games Superpipe gold with a sensational run that included three double flips. "That's the best pipe run I have ever seen by a skier'" declared X-Games commentator Mike Douglas.

Rolland threw down a double flip with a mute grab, an alley-oop 360, a double flair left to a double flair right and concluded with a double cork 1260 – an amazing three double flips – scoring a 95.00 and the victory. “I can’t believe it,” an ecstatic Rolland said. “It is huge, it is amazing and a dream come true. I have never landed three doubles. I am so happy; this is such a good feeling. I won the X Games, this is a dream come true.”
Kevin Rolland. Photo: Eric Lars Bakke/Shazamm/ESPN

Kevin Rolland. Photo: Eric Lars Bakke/Shazamm/ESPN

Rolland bested New Zealand's Jossi Wells who locked down the silver medal with a score of 92.00. Rolland's fellow countrymen and defending X-Games pipe champion Xavier Bertoni grabbed the bronze ahead of American favourite Simon Dumont.

“I am happy with how I skied,” Wells said. “I was most excited about my double flip and I couldn’t be more stoked for second place right now.”

Jossi Wells. Photo: Eric Lars Bakke/Shazamm/ESPN

Xavier Bertonis. Photo: Heather Rousseau/Shazamm/ESPN

X-GAMES 2010 SKI SUPERPIPE RESULTS
1. Kevin Rolland, La Plagne, FRA (Rossignol, Smith, Pull In, Level) 95.00
2. Jossi Wells, Wanaka, NZ (Atomic, Monster, Oakley, Nike 6.0, Skull Candy, Giro) 92.00
3. Xavier Bertoni, La Clusaz, FRA (Monster, Rossignol, Orage, Giro) 90.00
4. Simon Dumont, Bethel, Maine, USA (Salomon, Oakley, Nike 6.0, Giro, Red Bull, Target, Toyota) 89.66
5. Duncan Adams, Breckenridge, CO ( Dynastar, Spy, Spyder, Level) 88.33
6. Tucker Perkins, North Hampton, N.H. USA (Nordica, Nike 6.0, POC) 85.00
7. Colby West, Breckenridge, CO USA (Monster, CoreUPT, Giro, Spyder, Technica) 81.66
8. Peter Olenick, Aspen, CO, USA (Monster, Nordica, Giro, Skull Candy) 40.66

IF3 in Photos

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 17:15:00 -0400

They say a picture speaks a thousand words.

The Gathering Presented by Salomon

Mon, 04 Mar 2013 11:22:00 -0500

Rossland, BC. The remarkable convergence of international adventurers, pro photographers, filmmakers and a cast of vibrant Kootenay characters, better known as the Gathering, is back in Rossland for a 5^th year, March 25-31, 2013. Organized by RED Mountain Resort, The Gathering is a community festival celebrating mountain culture, adventure and experiences through storytelling and sharing.

New this year, The Gathering is offering free on-snow events and clinics for the public at RED. Saturday’s Matinee events include the opening of Rossland’s Ski and Mining Museum and an exhibit in the Rossland Art Gallery.

Friday and Saturday All-Star Film and Photo Nights showcase incredible presentations from The Gathering’s guest presenters. Both evenings are hosted by the Red Mountain Racers, are open to every one of all ages and will be held in the auditorium of Rossland Secondary School. Emceed by Mitch Scott, Senior Correspondent with Powder Magazine and publisher of Kootenay Mountain Culture Magazine, both nights will feature a talented line up of entertaining presenters including:

· Pro Photographer Alexa Miller presenting Killington with Powder Mag’s Mike Rogge – http://www.alexamiller.com/

· Pro Photographer Grant Gunderson presenting the Japan experience – http://www.grantgunderson.com/

· Pro Photographer Erik Seo - http://www.erikseo.com/

· Pro Photographer Hank DeVre - www.hankdevrephotography.com/

· Pro Photographer Felix Rioux - http://www.felixrioux.com/

· Pro Photographer and Local Rosslander Francois Marseille - http://www.francoismarseille.com/

· Pro Photographer Ace Kvale with Pro Athlete Kasha Rigby - http://www.acekvale.com/

· Pro Photographer Workshop host Mark Shapiro with Tour Guide John Falkiner - http://www.markoshapiro.com/

· Newschoolers.com Editor Jeff Schmuck - http://www.newschoolers.com/

· Warren Miller & Dick Barrymore throwbacks Rad Brad and Ted Shred

· Hans Ludwig presenting the spoken word from the Jaded Local

Mon. March 25 6PM – 9PM Photography 101 with Mark Shapiro – RED’s Conference Room

Tues. March 26 All day Photo Workshop with Mark Shapiro (for Workshop participants only)

Wed. March 27 All day Photo Workshop with Mark Shapiro (for Workshop participants only)

Thurs. March 28 7PM – 1:30PM Welcome Party – RAFTERS

Fri. March 29 9AM – 3:30PM Skiing & Snowboarding with Free Public Events

· Salomon Demo Day

· Gang Ski Tour & Weenie Roast Top of Grey

· How to Apply Skins & Tour Up Hill Selecting the Best Line

· How to Dig A Pit

· GoPro Clinic 101

7PM All-Star Film & Photo Night I – RSS AUDITORIUM

9:30PM Big Hair Rocker & Groupie Party with DJ – Costume Required - RAFTERS

Sat. March 30 8:30 – 10AM Pancake Breakfast - DAYLODGE DECK

9AM – 3:30PM Skiing & Snowboarding with Free Public Events

· Salomon Demo Day

· How to Use a Beacon

· How to Shoot Like a Pro with an iPhone

· Ski with Salomon Athlete(s) & Consumer Contest Winners

· Ballet Ski Tips With Rico

3PM – 5PM Rossland Ski and Mining Museum Open – Entry by Donation

3PM – 6PM Photo Gallery - Rossland Art Gallery

7PM All-Star Film & Photo Night II - RSS AUDITORIUM

After Parties Flying Steam Shovel presenting live in concert The Cropdusters & Drift Izakaya featuring Jeff Johnson

Sun. March 31 9AM – 3:30PM Skiing & Snowboarding

9AM – 1PM Brunch at the flying Steam Shovel featuring Rad Brad’s Warren Miller escapades

9AM – 3:30PM Salomon Demo Day

2 PM– 3:30 PM Slush CUP

4 PM – 10PM Deck Party at RED – Live music featuring the Aggrolites plus Guest DJ

For more details, to register for the Photo Workshops and for ticket information, please visit http://gathering.redresort.com/ or call 1-800-663-0105

The Telus Triple Challenge Wrap-up

Sat, 20 Mar 2010 12:17:00 -0400

The Telus Triple Challenge is the first part in a series of three events put on by Telus across Canada, which are held at Blue Mountain, Tremblant and Whistler. Being one of the biggest competitions in our country of the year, it wasn't surprising to see crews from all over Canada make the journey to Collingwood to try and place in one of the three disciplines featured throughout the event.

A solid group of Quebec riders made the drive out, featuring Superunknown finalist Alex Bellemare, last year's big air winner Dominic Laporte and recent Axis Slopestyle winner Seb Chartrand. The West was also well represented as many made the journey from Whistler and Calgary, while Rage Film's athlete Mike Mertion rallied his crew of Vernon skiers and snowboarders to Collingwood to attempt their luck at taking home some prize money. Local talents Sandy Boville and Jamieson Irvine were also on hand, while pro skier Corey Vanular and local street gang CASG led by Max Hill and apprentice Coal Drexler lurked in the shadows throughout the week.

The competition is broken down into three separate days which all lead up to the big air which hands out 3500$ to the rider who can throw the best trick. The pressure is even higher as the finals take place Saturday night at the base of the village in front of hundreds of spectators and competitors watching them as their spin and flip off the lit up booter. Even though the focus of the week is on the intense competition taking place, it would not be the Telus Triple Challenge without all the official and unofficial partying that takes place.

Everyone got see to see familiar faces and old friends Thursday morning at registration and even though the rivalry is intense and everyone wants to be number one, it is hard to not have a smile on your face when slapping high fives and discussing your season with fellow riders. Some people were hesitant coming to Blue, as the weatherman was calling for four days straight of rain and zero bluebird days we come to expect in the spring time. Luckily mother nature was on our side and graced us with warm weather, blue skies and the perfect conditions to kick off the event and slopestyle with a bang.

The slopestyle course was broken down into two lanes and athletes were able to switch between both to put together their ideal run. The skiers left featured a mid-sized jump with a lot of kick, a large flat down rail while the right had a street style down rail to a similar sized jump. The course then funneled down to the big air jump, where riders had the option of hitting either one of the medium sized jumps beside it and then had a choice of three rails to finish off their run; a long flat bar, a down flat down or a barrel bonk. The format was simple as each rider had two runs to impress the judges, and the top 12 riders would move on to the finals where the same rules applied.

The level of riding was incredible, as riders pushed each other to see who was able to throw the biggest and most technical tricks. Consistency is the name of the game when it comes to slopestyle, and many riders missed the cut because they could not hold on in the slushy conditions. Some highlights were Mike Mertion's technical grabs, young gun Gabriel Boudreau's smooth spins, Sash Lazics lofty 180's and Corey Vanular's nose butter 9's off the final jump. In the end, Alex Bellemare proved to be the best out of the pact, dominating the competition with a flawless run which consisted of a switch 9 double-mute, disaster 450 on to switch out on the flat down, to a switch 10 mute and finished with a switch 270 on pretzel 270 off. Gabriel Boudreau was able to secure second place with stylish tail grabs while Mike Mertion finished in third with his solid jumping game.

Men's Pro Ski

Alex Bellemare

Gabriel Boudreau

Mike Mertion

Men's Amateur Ski

Jordan Innes

Issac Vickers

Alexander Mathers

Women's Pro

Kylie Sivell

Jessica Warll

Dara Howell

The second day of the Telus Triple Challenge featured a rail jam on the bottom section of the slopestyle course where competitors tried to impress the judges on all three features during a one hour jam session. The qualifiers saw the regular bag of pretzels and disasters, but the finals featured a mind-blowing level of riding I have yet to see in a rail jam. Even though not all tricks were landed, the level of riding would make you think that you were watching a rail segment in the latest Poorboyz movie.

Some tricks included a switch 630 disaster 270 off by Dom Laporte, a 360 switch up to 270 out by Hugo Pelletier and many attempted rodeos to the down by Sandy Boville and Gab Boudreau. Mike Mertion was having fun all day tapping and bonking the jib and it ended up getting him in third place, while Alex Bellemare grabbed second with some of the most technical tricks thrown thus far. Jamieson Irvine killed it in the finals and ended up taking home the 1st place trophy with one of the smoothest nose butter 450's on along with many other clean tricks.

Men's Pro

Jamieson Irvine

Alex Bellemare

Mike Mertion

Men's Amateur Ski

Evan Mceachran

Jordan Innes

Issac Vickers

Women's Pro

Steph Borque

Dara Howell

Jillian Gordon

Unfortunately everyone woke up hungover Saturday morning to cloudy skies and a light drizzle of rain. The idea of taking home 3500$ cash motivated the riders to click in and hit the big air jump which was a 65-foot sender with very little kick but a lot of float. Competitors had an hour jam session to impress the judges and qualify for the big air finals which are held that night in front of a huge crowd. Mike Mertion stood out with his diverse grabs, tweaks and shifties and they landed him a spot in the finals. Crowd pleaser Sash Lazic got the spectators roaring with his signature switch backflip, laying it out and almost making everyone shit their pants right before he brought it back around. It wasn't long before kids started hucking doubles and after a few attempts most athletes were stomping them. Local Ontario kid and Salomon rider Sandy Boville was the first to cleanly land a double, taking the jump as deep as possible before stomping and riding away. The girls were throwing down too, with Jess Warl throwing huge lofty rodeo 5's and Kylie Sivell launching front flips all day.

It wasn't long before the rain started to really come down and athletes started questioning whether or not the event organizers were going to run the finals or just use the qualifiers to pick a winner. This sparked a surge of big tricks, as everyone wanted to make sure to get one banger in before the qualifiers were over. Athletes waited in the lodge to find out if finals were on, and if they were, whether or not they made the cut and would have a shot at winning 3500$. To everyone's delight, results were posted and finals were on. Athletes relaxed in the lodge with their friends and discussed what trick they would need to throw to have a chance at placing in the finals.

The rain died down before the finals got underway, but decided to start back up as the first rider dropped in. The format was simple, skiers and snowboarders rode together and had two hours to throw their biggest trick and impress the judges who were looking for the best trick of the night. It wasn't long before riders were throwing double flips, while the Quebec crew was spinning 10's, 12's and 14's like it was nobodies business.

When all was said and done the athletes gathered at the Coors Light Lounge and waited as the judges discussed who will be awarded 1st place and take home the big cash prize. I am happy I was not the one to making the final decision, as the level of riding showcased that night was of an extremly high caliber.In the end, Alex Bellemare was given top spot on the podium again, after finishing 1st in the slopestyle and 2nd in the rail jam. His kangaroo flip proved to be better than Sandy Boville's, who finished in a close second. Third place went to Seb Chartrand with a 1260, who somehow managed to beat out Gabriel Boudreau's clean and smooth 1440 which was oozing with style. Jess Warl took home first place for the ladies, looking like a male competitor with her lofty rodeo 7.Another year done, next stop is the Telus Spin at Tremblant and the Telus WSSI in Whistler! Hope to see everyone there.

Men's Pro

Alex Bellemare

Sandy Boville

Seb Chartrand

Women's Pro

Jessica Warl

Kylie Sivell

Steph Borque

For more photos visit www.jmousseauphoto.com

Whistler Blackcomb Announces Major $18 Million Capital Expansion for 2013.2014

Sat, 19 Jan 2013 01:59:00 -0500

Lift Expansion Includes New Whistler Mountain Harmony High-Speed Six-Pack Chairlift And New High-Speed Quad Chairlift In Blackcomb Mountain’s Crystal Zone

WHISTLER, BC, January 18, 2013 – Whistler Blackcomb has unveiled capital plans for a major lift expansion. Whistler Mountain’s Harmony high-speed, quad chairlift will be replaced with a new Doppelmayr high-speed, detachable, six-pack chairlift capable of transporting six people on each chair. Blackcomb Mountain will see a lift enhancement with a high-speed quad chairlift going into a new area in the Crystal Zone, currently accessed by a fixed-grip triple chair.

“This lift expansion clearly demonstrates our commitment to continuously enhance the skiing and riding experience on both mountains,” says Dave Brownlie, President and Chief Executive Officer, Whistler Blackcomb. “Each zone the new lifts will service is unique and much-loved by Whistler locals and destination guests alike. The capital we are investing to enhance our already amazing experiences will make Whistler Blackcomb even better.”

The new high-speed quad chairlift in the Crystal Zone will be 1,708 metres (5,604ft) in length, with a vertical rise of 535 metres (1,755ft). Skier carrying capacity will increase by 65 per cent over the current lift to 2,400 skiers per hour. The new quad will deliver skiers and riders to the same location as the current triple chair next to the Crystal Hut. However, the aspect of the new lift line is dramatically different, and will originate 158 metres (518ft) lower than the old Crystal lift. The bottom elevation will be 1,292 metres (4,239ft) and the top elevation of the lift will be 1,827 metres (5,994ft).

This bottom terminal location along the Blackcomb Glacier Road ski-out eliminates the need to utilize the Excelerator Chair to access many Crystal Zone trails including Ridge Runner, Rock ‘N’ Roll, and gladed trails like Outer Limits. It will be even quicker to return to the Glacier Express chair to access Horstman Glacier, Blackcomb Glacier and Spanky’s. The increased length of the chair’s line will give skiers and riders the opportunity to lap the entire Crystal Zone – from undulating cruisers to gladed zones riddled with natural terrain features and snow-caked trees straight out of a Dr. Seuss book. The name of this exciting new quad chairlift will be determined through a competition to be announced by Whistler Blackcomb later this winter.

The Harmony Six high-speed chairlift will replace one of Whistler Blackcomb’s most popular lifts and will dramatically improve the uphill capacity by 50 per cent; going from 2,400 skiers per hour to 3,600. The Harmony Six will service terrain spanning from the edge of the Symphony Amphitheatre all the way over to Glacier Bowl, adjacent to the Peak Express. This area, known as the Harmony Zone, makes up over 485 hectares (1,200 acres) of Whistler Blackcomb’s 3,306 hectares (8,171 acres) of total terrain. With a wide variety of beginner to expert terrain options, the Harmony Six will ensure skiers and riders are able to spend more time on the mountain exploring the spectacular, powder-covered alpine that Whistler Blackcomb is celebrated for.

The Harmony Six has the same alignment as the current Harmony quad; spanning 1,729 metres (5,672ft) in length, with a vertical rise of 525 metres (1,722ft). The top elevation of the lift is 2,107 metres (6,912ft); the bottom elevation is 1,582 metres (5,190ft).

Construction on the lifts will begin this spring and will continue through the summer and fall with an expected opening at the beginning of the 2013.2014 winter season.

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release contains forward-looking statements or information, within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws, including, but not limited to, statements with respect to the timing of the completion of the project and expected growth of the Corporation’s business, which may prove to be incorrect.

The forward-looking statements and information contained in this press release are based on certain factors and assumptions made by management of the Corporation including, but not limited to: assurances from suppliers, previous lift installations and there being no unforeseen obstructions to the construction of the project.

The forward-looking statements and information contained in this press release are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated including, but not limited to, risks relating to unfavourable weather conditions, availability of capital, supply and installation of equipment, environmental laws and regulations, the impact of any occurring natural disasters and economic, business and market conditions. A more detailed description of these risks is available in the Corporation’s annual information form dated December 12, 2012, which is available on the Corporation’s website and on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements or information prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein. Although the Corporation believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements and information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements or information because the Corporation can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct.

These forward-looking statements and information are made as of the date of this press release, and the Corporation has no intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements or information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as required by applicable Canadian securities laws.

About Whistler Blackcomb

For more information, visit http://ww1.whistlerblackcomb.com/media

Canada’s Mike Riddle wins halfpipe, Rosalind Groenewoud takes silver

Sat, 12 Jan 2013 18:06:00 -0500

COPPER, COLORADO (January 11, 2013) – Canada’s Mike Riddle dominated the halfpipe here today in soft and snowy conditions, winning the FIS World Cup event while teammate Rosalind Groenewoud also landed on the podium claiming the silver in the women’s field. After just squeaking into the finals in the qualification round, Riddle, of Spruce Grove, Alta., quickly blew the competition away in finals; scoring 90.2 and 91.2 in the best-of-two run format. Aaron Blunck of the US and teammate David Wise took the silver and bronze, respectively, with scores of 87.0 and 83.6.

Snow overnight and during the training session this morning made for what Riddle characterized as “gnarly” conditions, and despite the best efforts of the event crew, there was a lot of soft snow in the bottom of the halfpipe which meant athletes had a difficult time maintaining enough speed to get enough amplitude to execute their tricks as well as they normally do.

Mike Riddle, AFP Photo

“I didn’t land my runs clean in qualifications so I was very lucky to get into finals as the last guy, and so today in the conditions I was just trying to put down as clean a run as possible and it worked out for me, I’ve been doing this run a lot and so I’m really confident with it and I was able to execute today very smoothly which meant I could maintain speed,” said Riddle.

He credited Canadian Team Ski Technician Kenny Nault with giving him the edge he needed, “I had a lot of help from Kenny, he’s the world’s best ski tech and so today our team definitely had the fastest running skis out there.”

The current World Champion said the win here is a definite confidence booster going into X Games later in the month. “It feels really good, but I know the run I did here is not going to be enough at X so I’ve got a little bit of work cut out for me getting my X run dialed and hopefully just keep the streak going.”

Matt Margetts of Penticton, B.C., who qualified first yesterday, had trouble on his second hit of in both finals runs, he landed low in the pipe both times he performed the alleyoop flatspin 540, which caused him to lose speed, affecting his next tricks. He finished the day 10th with a top score of 54.6.

Canadian National Team members who did not advance to finals included Calgarians Noah Bowman in 17th and Kristopher Atkinson 27th. Simon D’Artois and Justin Dorey of Whistler, B.C. were 54th and 65th, respectively. Dorey, the Dew Cup Champion, fell after the first hit on both his qualifying runs.

On the women’s side, Rosalind Groenewoud of Calgary bested her Dew Cup bronze medal from December with a strong silver placing here and a score of 79.2.

Roz G, AFP Photo

She too battled the conditions. “Roz was definitely affected by the slow speed of the pipe. She did a good job but just didn’t have as much speed into her last two tricks to get enough height,” said coach Trennon Paynter.

Americans Maddie Bowman and Brita Sigourney sandwiched Groenewoud on the podium with scores of 84.6 and 79.0, respectively

Calgary’s Megan Gunning had an impressive fifth place showing with a score of 75.0; while Cassie Sharpe from Comox, B.C. – a member of the Winsport Park and Pipe Academy, was 12th in finals at 46.0.

Canadian Team member Keltie Hansen of Calgary, Alta. finished 14th overall. Edmonton’s Dania Assaly suffered a broken collarbone in training and did not compete.

World Cup Freestyle action continues tomorrow with the 2013 Freestyle Ski FIS Aerials World Cup in Val Saint-Côme, Quebec. For spectator information or media accreditation to this event, or the upcoming 2013 Freestyle Ski Moguls Grand Prix Presented by Volvo on January 26 at Winsport’s Canada Olympic Park go to http://freestyleski.com/wp/worldcup/.

MEN’S SUPERPIPE

1. Mike Riddle — 91.2
2. Aaron Blunck — 87.0
3. David Wise — 83.6
4. Joffrey Pollet-Villard — 79.8
5. Thomas Krief — 77.8
6. Alex Ferreira — 73.6
7. Simon Dumont — 70.0
8. Kevin Rolland — 68.8
9. Benoit Valentin — 65.2
10. Matt Margetts — 54.6
11. Gus Kenworthy — 35.8
12. Byron Wells — DNS

WOMEN’S SUPERPIPE

1. Maddie Bowman - 84.6
2. Rosalind Groenewoud - 79.2
3. Brita Sigourney - 79.0
4. Virginie Faivre - 78.4
5. Megan Gunning - 75.0
6. Ayana Onozuka - 73.0
7. Annalisa Drew - 71.8
8. Marie Martinod - 64.6
9. Mirjam Jaeger - 64.2
10. Katrien Aerts - 63.4
11. Manami Mitsuboshi - 63.0
12. Cassie Sharpe - 46.0

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About the Canadian Freestyle Ski Association

The Canadian Freestyle Ski Association is the governing body in Canada for the sport of Freestyle Skiing. With the support of its valued corporate along with the Government of Canada, Canadian Olympic Committee and Own the Podium, the CFSA develops Olympic and world champions in all disciplines of the sport.

With the support of the Governments of Canada, Quebec and Alberta; the CFSA is hosting two FIS World Cups in 2013. Aerials on January 12 at Station Touristique Val St. Come, Que. and the 2013 Freestyle Ski Moguls Grand Prix Presented by Volvo on January 26 at Winsport’s Canada Olympic Park.

Sarah Burke Succumbs To Injuries

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 16:06:00 -0500

It is with profound sadness that we report Canadian freeskiing superstar Sarah Burke passed away earlier today.

A statement from Burke’s family said the 29 year old groundbreaking skier and the four-time X-Games gold medalist, passed away at 9:22am this morning at the University of Utah Hospital “from injuries sustained in an accident on the Eagle Superpipe at Park City Mountain Resort on Tuesday, January 10, 2012. She was training for upcoming winter events.”

As the result of Sarah’s fall, she suffered a ruptured vertebral artery, one of the four major arteries supplying blood to the brain. The rupture of this artery led to a severe intracranial hemorrhage, which caused Sarah to go into cardiac arrest on the scene. Emergency personnel responded and CPR was administered on the scene during which time she remained without a pulse or spontaneous breathing. Studies in the University of Utah Hospital Emergency Department indicated that she retained brainstem function. She was placed on life support and a protocol of therapeutic hypothermia was initiated to protect her brain. An angiogram indicated the site of arterial bleeding, and on Wednesday, January 11 the injured artery was successfully repaired.

After the operation, numerous neurological examinations, electrodiagnostic tests and imaging studies revealed that Sarah sustained severe irreversible damage to her brain due to lack of oxygen and blood after cardiac arrest, resulting in hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy. Sarah passed away peacefully surrounded by those she loved. In accordance with Sarah’s wishes, her organs and tissues were donated to save the lives of others.

While early reports in the media stated that Sarah’s injury was a traumatic brain injury, it is important to note that Sarah’s condition was the result of a lack of oxygen to the brain during cardiac arrest.

Sarah leaves behind her husband, fellow Canadian skier Rory Bushfield.

The family wishes to express their deep gratitude to Sarah’s dear friends for their love and support, and for traveling to Salt Lake City to comfort the family.

They would also like to thank the University of Utah Hospital and her physicians and care team in the Neuro Critical Care Unit for their incredible care and compassion.

The family was moved by the sincere and heartfelt sympathy expressed by people inspired by Sarah from all around the world. They have received a substantial number of inquiries from those who would like to make a contribution on behalf of Sarah. For more information, please go to http://www.giveforward.com/sarahburke.

Sarah will be remembered as one of the great legends of skiing and an inspiration to all.
SBC Skier extends in sincere condolences to Sarah's family during this difficult time.

A public celebration of Sarah’s life will be held in the coming weeks.

B.C. Premier Christy Clark made the following statement today: "I was saddened to hear of the passing of freestyle skier Sarah Burke, of Whistler. Sarah was a shining light in both the British Columbia and world skiing community. Her passing in Utah hospital today, as the result of a training accident last week, is a devastating loss to her family and her sport. On behalf of all British Columbians, I extend condolences to Sarah's family, to her colleagues and to all members of the ski community on the loss of a true star.''

Mack Jones and Yuki Tsubota Win The Canadian Shield, COP

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 11:54:00 -0500

Calgary skiers definitely got behind The Canadian Shield as they nearly maxed out registration prior to the onsite check in day. Upwards of 120 skiers entered Calgary’s first ever tour stop.

Due to the carry over of the snowboard pro and am contest to Sunday morning thanks to high up-hill winds on Saturday, the format for both disciplines was changed to a best of three runs contest. An unphased pro men’s division took their three runs at the end of the day. When all was said and done, Mack Jones secured himself the win and $5000 with his run that included, a left 900, switch 1080, switch 7 and switch 270 on 270 off the rail feature. Joining him in second and increasing his tour points lead was Ian Cosco, who has podiumed at all three tour stops. Ian’s best run consisted of a right 7, Flat Double, cab 9 to 270 on 270 off the rail. Rounding out the top three was Nevin Metzger, who landed on his first ever Canadian Shield podium with a run that included a left cab 7, cab 9 to right 9. Coming in a close fourth and taking home the SBC SKIER Standout Trick award was Rob Heule for a 450 butter on the down rail.

Mack Jones (4frnt)

Yuki Tsubota once again dominated the pro women’s division. She has been on a serious winning streak so far this season, taking first place at all three Canadian Shield Tour stops, easily making her the leader in the tour points race. She was joined on the podium by Maggie Voisin in second and Cassandra Ratcliffe in third. Narrowly missing the podium but still taking home the SBC SKIER Standout Trick award was Meagan Fiselier, thanks to a huge corked 720.

Check out some photos from the contest and a full list of results below...

Horseshoe Open

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

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Horseshoe Open

Barrie, Ont. - The first annual Horseshoe Open kicked off today. Despite the constant downpour, the kids still came out to play. Over 25 skiers battled out during the daytime rail jam qualifiers. However, as evening fell everyone steped up their game for the nighttime finals. The course featured a down bar on the left, a picnic box in the middle, and a down-flat-down rail on the right, allowing the riders to get creative.

While everyone took turns throwing down, it was a family affair that swept the podium. In the men’s pro division, the Mortveit brothers out of Collingwood came out on top. Erik’s Front 810 on the picnic box secured him the top spot. While Stefan’s Switch Tailover 270 Disaster on the down-flat-down was enough to take second place. Geoff Lovelace followed in third thanks to his 450 Disaster on the down-flat-down rail. In the ladies pro division, the Blackall sisters took first and second, followed by Danielle Botton in third.

Judge and Head Shreducation Ski Coach Tom Dolezel says, he was impressed by the level of riding all day. “The Mortveit brothers killed it. They were having fun, they stomped everything and they’re super constant. Plus, Geoff Lovelace skies likes he’s French – in a good way.”

Stay tuned for coverage of tomorrow’s slopestyle and big air events. The Horseshoe Open is sponsored in part by Coors Light, Pepsi, Ford, SnowboardCanada.com, SBCSkier.com, 102.1 The Edge and Electric

Dew Tour Highlights

Mon, 17 Dec 2012 17:05:00 -0500

Men's Halfpipe

1st Place - Justin Dorey

2nd Place - Byron Wells

3rd Place - Mike Riddle

Women's Halfpipe

1st Place - Brita Sigourney

2nd Place - Maddie Bowman

3rd Place - Roz Groenwoud

Men's Slopestyle

1st Place - Russ Henshaw

2nd Place - Andreas Hatveit

3rd Place - Henrik Harlaut

Big Air

Women's Slopestyle

1st Place - Kaya Turski

2nd Place - Yuki Tsubota

3rd Place - Anna Segal

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One of the biggest events of the season just went down at Colorado’s Breckenridge resort; the one and only winter-sport stop of the Dew Tour. The grand kickoff to the competition season was attended by skiing and snowboarding’s most elite invited athletes.

The ski events at this Dew Tour consisted of superpipe, slopestyle, and big air.

The big air show took place in the early evening, under the lights at the bottom of Peak 7. The final jump of the slopestyle course was used as the main stage for the contest. Some of the most stylish tricks we have ever seen went down that night. Some were surprised to not see any triples happen, but with the beauty of the tricks that were being thrown, it would have to have been one darn good triple to take the cake.

Henrik Harlaut definitely had one of the most unique tricks of the night with consistent nose butter double cork 1080s. Gus Kenworthy dazzled us with one of the cleanest double cork 1620s anyone has ever seen while grabbing tail perfectly throughout the trick. Although Gus spun more, and was super clean, the judges decided that the top spot belonged to Kai Mahler with a switch double misty 1440 double japan. Kai looked like a baseball with top spin flying through the air on his way to victory.

The pipe contest was a nice preview of what we are going to see this season, and it did not disappoint. The Canadian team had the Dew Tour on lock as Mike Riddle was the top qualifier going into the finals. In the end, the judges were on point as top honors went to the half man, half machine, all canuck – Justin Dorey. Justin was going huge every hit, with a run filled with technicality and style. Next to his dizzying double 12s (both left and right, the most exciting tricks to watch were J-Bone’s massive air-to-fakies that set him up for his lofty switch 7s. On his final run Justin’s shoulder dislocated in mid air-to-fakie. In true Chuck Norris fashion, Justin fended off medical attention from the on-site staff and proceeded to wrap his arm around his knee, and pop his shoulder back into place.

The slopestyle went down on Sunday- the final day of competition. Unfortunately this was the day with the fiercest weather as well. Heavy clouds blocked the sun and dumped tons of snow on the course. Gusty winds crashed the party and further complicated things for the athletes. Some were able to endure, some were unfortunately at the mercy of the conditions. In the end, it was those who could tame the uncooperative weather that ended up on top.

On the women’s side we saw a very impressive display from Canada’s Yuki Tsubota as she whipped the slope course into shape with smooth rail tricks and a great-looking mute grabbed backflip. All of that landed her in 2^nd place as she nudged out Anna Segal who settled for the bronze. Not to anyone’s surprise, Kaya Turski added another well-deserved gold medal to her long and impressive list of contests she has dominated.

On the men’s side, there were big technical tricks being thrown by all. Going into the finals, the UK’s James Woods was sitting in first place. It wasn’t a good day to have to plow fresh tracks for the rest of the field as Woodsey was unable to hold on to top spot and ended up in 9^th place. Those who managed to dominate in the end had to throw very legit and technical slopestyle runs even given the inclement weather. 3^rd place went to the ever-stylish Henrik Harlaut who got a disaster 630 and a nose butter double corked 10in his run.

Second place went to Andreas Hatviet. Who’s first run score was enough to bring him to the podium. Unfortunately for Andreas, he crashed on his second run and injured his knee. The gold medal went to Australia’s Russ Henshaw who dominated the course and earned his keep at the Dew Tour.

There were many festivities that surrounded the Dew Tour event. Breckenridge came alive from sleepy pre-season ski town, to a mecca of vivacious skiers and snowboarders amped to get the season off on the right track. Most of the nightlife centered between Cecelia’s, Liquid Lounge, and one of the many team houses that sponsors had rented for their teams. There were also a few performances by artists such as DJ Largechild, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, and Juvenile of Cash Money Millionares. Friday night saw a street-style event that was “Snowboard Only” go down in the middle of the town. It was a great concept with a unique set-up, but would have worked well for skiers too.

All in all the Dew Tour lived up to its expectations as a one of the premiere events of the winter. Definitely can’t wait for next year.

- Tom Dolezel

JOSS Team Canada Announced

Sat, 27 Mar 2010 12:28:00 -0400

Team Canada was announced for the Jon Olsson Super Sessions today and will include Tj Schiller, Justin Dorey, Ian Cosco with Darren Rayner and Michael Clarke filming. JOSS is one of the most anticipated competitions of the season, not only for the athletes but for those sitting at home following the daily photo and video updates.

"21 of the world’s best freeskiing athletes and 12 of the world’s finest ski film makers will work together in 7 different teams, representing 7 nations. The teams will have 264 hours to unleash their creativity on the features in and around Åre. The goal: To put together the most amazing and entertaining 5-minute edit. There’s a neat cash prize. Winner takes it all." - JOSS.com

photos stolen from facebook

Canada:
TJ Schiller
Justin Dorey
Rookie: Ian Cosco
Filmers: Darren Rayner and Michael Clarke

Team Canada JOSS from Voleurz on Vimeo.

USA:
Simon Dumont
Bobby Brown (injured)
Rookie: Tom Wallisch
Filmers:

Norway:
Andreas Håtveit
PK Hunder
Rookie: Sigbjørn Tveit
Filmers: Jon Håtveit and Filip Christensen

Europe:
Elias Ambuhl
Jacob Wester
Rookie: Oscar Harlaut
Filmers: Drew Lederer and Fabian Weber

Sweden:
Oscar Scherlin
Henrik Harlaut
Rookie:
Filmers:

Down under:
Russ Henshaw
Jossi Wells
Rookie: Dhanu Danger Sherpa
Filmers:

Newschoolers:
Matt Walker
Gus Kentworthy
Rookie: LJ Strenio
Filmers: Duncan Lake and Kevin Steen

Vincent Gagnier Wins 2013 WSI Big Air

Sun, 14 Apr 2013 14:51:00 -0400

WHISTLER, BC, April 14, 2013 – In front of a packed crowd of spectators in Skiers Plaza at the base of Whistler Mountain, Vincent Gagnier took the top spot in the 2013 Association of Freeskiing Professionals (AFP) World Skiing Invitational (WSI) Big Air contest at the 18^th annual World Ski and Snowboard Festival in Whistler, BC.

Qualifying for the eight man final in last spot, Gagnier scored a 92 on his second of two jumps landing a double cork bio 1080 octograb on the 65’ step over big air jump. Gagnier took home $5000 in prize money, and improved upon his second place finish in last year’s contest.

Last year’s champion Gus Kenworthy found the podium finishing in second place with a score of 91, landing a double cork 1660, and taking home $3500. Henrik Harlaut finished third and earned $1500 with his nose butter double cork 1440.

Hip hop legend Nas entertained the crowd at the World Ski and Snowboard Festival Main Stage after the Big Air contest as the headliner of the free Outdoor Concert Series.

The AFP World Championships World Skiing Invitational will continue on Sunday April 14, with Men’s Slopestyle Qualifiers taking place from 11:45am – 3:00pm, in the Blackcomb Highest Level Terrain Park. Men’s and Women’s Slopestyle Finals will take place Monday April 15, from 10:45am – 3:00pm. Live scoring and results can be found online http://live.eim-solutions.com/wsi2013.

To connect with the World Ski and Snowboard Festival online, Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

The World Ski & Snowboard Festival is produced by Watermark Communications, a Whistler‐based event production & communications company, and presented in partnership with Tourism Whistler and Whistler Blackcomb. Having grown over 18 years into the largest annual winter sports and music festival in North America, the World Ski & Snowboard Festival is a 10 day and night showcase of the best of snow sports, music, arts and mountain culture. Featuring major professional ski and snowboarding competitions, the largest annual free outdoor concert series in Canada, cultural events that match up art‐lovers with the art‐makers, career‐making fashion, photography and film showcases, the best spring snow conditions in the world, and burn‐the candle at both ends nightlife, the World Ski and Snowboard Festival is the poster child for the ultimate ski and snowboard festival experience. In blazing the way for the youth of tomorrow, the World Ski and Snowboard Festival embodies the mantra: ‘Party in April. Sleep in May.’

STRONG CANADIAN SHOWING AT ROCKSTAR SKI CROSS GRAND PRIX, BLUE MOUNTAIN, ONTARIO, CANADA

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Blue Mountain, Collingwood, Ont. – Canadians continued their strong run up to the Vancouver Olympics where Ski Cross will make its debut. In the second to last World Cup qualifying event before the Games, Canada’s Ashleigh McIvor finished 2nd and three other Canadian women made the top ten. On the Men’s side five Canadians finished among the top 11, but none made the final four with Brady Leman (5th) and Stanley Hayer (7th) just missing the cut in the semi-finals. See results below.

Beautiful sunny weather brought out a huge crowd of fans who cheered on their fellow Canadians as they raced to the finish at the base of at Blue Mountain, Ontario's largest resort. This was the first time that Blue Mountain or any Ontario resort had ever hosted a World Cup ski or snowboard event, but hopefully after this successful debut, not the last. Collingwood is Ontario's top action sports destination and the Village at Blue Mountain is it's winter hub.

“We had a fantastic event yesterday, which was the cap on three days of great racing,” enthused Paul Pinchebeck, Director, Marketing, Blue Mountain Resort. “The first World Cup race at Blue Mountain was a hit with the athletes, the spectators, and the resort. We will certainly be looking at a way to host the Rockstar Ski Cross Grandprix again in 2011.”

The Canadian women's ski cross team is considered the best in the world. Whistler's Ashleigh McIvor has already qualified for the Vancouver Olympics on the basis of her win at the 2009 Worlds, while teammates Kelsey Serwa of Kelowna (9th at Blue Mtn), Julia Murray of Whistler (10th at Blue Mtn) and Danielle Poleschuk of Calgary (6th at Blue Mtn), and Aleisha Cline of Squamish, BC (21st at Blue Mtn) are all on the bubble. At least two are expected to qualify, but the final decision won't be made until after this weekend's Ski Cross World Cup in Lake Placid, USA. In the current Ski Cross World Cup standings McIvor sits 2nd, behind Frances Ophelie David, with Murray in 3rd, Serwa in 5th and Poleschuk 11th.

Leading the Canadian men's ski cross team towards Olympic qualification are Calgary's Stanley Hayer (7th at Blue Mtn) and Chris Del Bosco of Sudbury, ON (11th at Blue Mtn), followed closely by David Duncan of Golden, BC (9th at Blue Mtn), Davey Barr of Brackendale, BC (13th at Blue Mtn) and Bradey Leman of Calgary (5th at Blue Mtn). In the Ski Cross World Cup standings Del Bosco is the highest ranked at 5th, with Hayer sitting 8th and Duncan 9th.

The Rockstar Ski Cross Grand Prix will be broadcast on Rogers Sportsnet across Canada in two one-hour shows on February 6th and 7th. Show times in each region can be found by clicking on 'FIS Freestyle World Cup' at www.SkiTelevision.com/broadcastschedule.aspx . The Rockstar Ski Cross Grand Prix at Blue Mountain included the supporting sponsorship of Volkswagen, Columbia, SBC Skier, SRC Magazine and A Channel TV.

RESULTS

WOMEN
1. HOEIE GJEFSEN Marte (NOR)
2. MCIVOR Ashleigh (CAN)
3. FARIC Sasa (SLO)
4. GUTENSOHN Katharina (AUT)
5. DAVID Ophelie (FRA)
6. POLESCHUK Danielle (CAN)
7. MUELLER Katrin (SUI)
8. ILJANS Magdalena (SWE)
9. SERWA Kelsey (CAN)
10. MURRAY Julia (CAN)
21. CLINE Aleisha (CAN)

MEN
1. MATT Andreas (AUT)
2. LEWEN Lars (SWE)
3. KOLLER Patrick (AUT)
4. SCHMID Michael (SUI)
5. LEMAN Brady (CAN)
6. SPALINGER Richard (SUI)
7. HAYER Stanley (CAN)
8. HOFER Beni (SUI)
9. DUNCAN David (CAN)
10. NIEDERER Armin (SUI)
11. DELBOSCO Chris (CAN)
13. BARR Davey (CAN)

Women's Podium (L-R): Ashleigh McIvor (CAN) 2nd ; Marte Hoeie Gjefsen(NOR) 1st; Sasa Faric (SLO) 3rd

Men's Podium (L-R): Lars Lewan (SWE) 2nd; Andreas Matt (AUT) 1st; Patrick Koller (AUT) 3rd

Kaya Turski and Sarah Burke win Gold at X-Games

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 14:01:00 -0500

On her first run in Women's Slopestyle Skiing, Canada's Kaya Turski set the pace with a score of 93.66. That score held through the remaining two rounds, earning her a second-consecutive gold medal in the event.

Nate Abbott/ESPN Images

"I feel elated right now," Turski said of her back-to-back wins. "I put a lot of pressure on myself. The level of competition here is so high, all the girls killed it. I luckily had a good first run, a great cab 7 and nailed the cannon. That really eased the pressure."

Turski held off hard-charging Keri Herman, whose final run score of 93.33 earned her the silver medal.

"It was amazing, the competition, the girls were throwing it down, the most tight tricks I've ever seen," Herman said. "It's so good that the level's up so high, it's really motivating, I really had to step up my game. It was just incredible today."

Grete Eliassen, who spent most of the season focusing on her movie, took home her second-consecutive bronze medal with a top score of 93.00.

"It's awesome to win again," Eliassen said. "I spent most of my season focusing on "Say My Name," so it is cool to come back and progress after that."

1. Kaya Turski | Montreal, QB, Canada | 93.66

2. Keri Herman | Breckenridge, Colo. | 93.33

3. Grete Eliassen | Salt Lake City, Utah | 93.00

4. Ashley Battersby | Chicago, Ill. | 92.00

5. Kim Lamarre | Lac-Beauport, QB, Canada | 91.33

6. Jessica Warll | Collingwood, ON, Canada | 90.66

7. Anna Segal | Melbourne, Australia | 80.33

8. Meg Olenick | Aspen, Colo. | 76.33

9. Maude Raymond | Montreal, QB, Canada | 75.00

10. Devin Logan | West Dover, Vt. | 73.00

After a sixth place finish in 2010, Sarah Burke is back atop the podium winning the gold medal in Women's Skiing SuperPipe at Winter X Games 15.

Last year was one to forget for Burke. The reigning queen of the Skiing SuperPipe had won three consecutive gold medals coming into last year, but a disappointing finish had her determined to return to the top. But the path to victory wasn't easy, as she was the final qualifier for the finals.

"This comp was very fun to watch," Burke said. "Qualifiers were hard, but tonight I was relaxed and having fun. My run felt really good especially my 900. It just clicked and I think that set me apart."

The winning score came on her second run where she executed the 900, back-to-back flairs and a 720 for a score of 91.33. The gold is her sixth X Games medal and her fourth in Skiing SuperPipe.

Winter X Games rookie Brita Sigourney captured the silver medal with a top score of 86.00.

"I tried not to let the nerves get the best of me," an excited Sigourney said. "I came out here to have a blast and that's what I did. So I'm just stoked with the result because I was enjoying every minute of it."

Calgary, Alberta, Canada native Roz Groenewoud won her second-consecutive bronze medal with a score of 84.00.

The Skiing SuperPipe event at the Winter X Games represents the progression of the sport and showcases the best pipe riders in the world. The 567-foot long, 22-foot deep SuperPipe is 75 feet from lip-to-lip with a pitch of 18 degrees. That translates into maximum amplitude and speed for the athletes to perform their tricks.

1. Sarah Burke | Whistler, BC, Canada | 91.33

2. Brita Sigourney | Carmel, Calif. | 86.00

3. Roz Groenewoud | Calgary, AB, Canada | 84.00

4. Anais Caradeux | La Clusaz, France | 82.33

5. Jen Hudak | Aspen, Colo. | 78.00

6. Devin Logan | West Dover, Vt. | 68.33

Freeskiing World Tour Day 1

Mon, 10 Jan 2011 11:11:00 -0500

After two weather delays and almost a metre of new snow, day one of the Freeskiing World Tour went off with a bang!

18 women descended through the north bowl this frigid, windy morning. Angel Collinson lead the charge out of the gate, hitting a cliff up top followed by a double-off a cornice into another 12 foot cliff. Unfortunately she went over the bars on the landing of her first drop, but still managed to set the bar high for the ladies that had to follow.

Sara Mancuso skied a unique billygoat line where she dropped onto a tiny platform on the ridge then straight off a 15ft cliff, which unfortunately she backslapped. The calibre of riding from the women was very high today and was no room for mistakes or loss of control.

Jacqui Edgerly, Crystal Wright and Tatum Monod all hit a 40ft straight line chute off the top of the ridge, with large exposure on either side and no room for error. Nicole Derksen came through the middle of the venue and hit two large cliffs at speed without hesitation, and stomped both with ease to ski her way into fifth position. Leah Evans won the day, hucking and billy-goating through the far lookers right side of the venue through steep trees and rocks.

Womens Results

1 Leah Evans Red Mtn 33.33

2. Jacqui Edgerly Aspen 33.0

3 Tatum Monod Revelstoke 31.87

4 Crystal Wright Jackson Hole28.03

5 Nicole Derksen Revelstoke 27.23

6 Sara Mancuso Squaw 25.83

7 Louise Lintilhac Revelstoke 25.53

After receiving almost a metre of snow in the past few days, the men were getting into zones that would otherwise be impossible to access, and sending features deep to soft, fluffy landings.

Drew Tabke was the first to drop in the men's field of 46, and managed to ski into first place with an impressive double cliff line in the steep trees on lookers right of the venue.

Aaron Schmidt aired completely over the straight-line women were taking, followed by Ryan Sullivan who opted to 360 over the entire thing. Other highlights from the day include Ryan Hawks throwing a super floaty backflip midway through the venue, and Silas Chickering Ayers throwing a cork-7 off a cliff in the trees on the lower half.

Local boy Alex Wall hit a massive 30ft cliff to a tiny landing pocket, but unfortunately couldn't keep a 360 off a lower cliff together. Collin Collins threw a large 720 of a sizeable cliff up top on the venue. Scott McBrayer hit a large 40-50ft cliff in the middle of the venue but went over the handlebars on his landing, and to progress on to the Finals judges want to see clean, error free skiing.

Mens Results

1 Drew Tabke El Colorado 38.10

2 Lars Chickering-Ayers MRG 37.30

3 Mat Jackson Squaw 36.43

4 Spencer Brinson Kirkwood 36.0

5 Griffin Post Jackson Hole35.63

6 Aaron Schmidt Fernie 35.53

7 Carter McMillan Lake Louise 34.83

8 North Parker Sun Valley 34.67

9 Caleb Brown Fernie 34.00

10 Sam Cohen Alta 34.00

11 Matt Luczkow Vail 33.90

12 Dylan Crossman Snowbird 32.23

13 Drew Stoecklein Alta 31.77

14 Collin Collins Sun Valley 31.43

15 Sean Cochrane Revelstoke 31.33

16 Connery Lundin Squaw 31.17

17 Matt Potter Breckenridge30.67

18 Gord Spurgeon Revelstoke 30.00

19 Ryan Hawks MRG 28.50

20 Dominick Malaussena Jay Peak 28.17

Tomorrow the these athletes compete in Heli-Accessed finals on Mt. Mackenzie in near perfect conditions, it will be one to watch for sure. For more information, and live feed coverage check out http://www.USFreeskiing.com

Ballin' Kind Of

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 19:14:00 -0500

The world premiere of Ballin' Kind Of dropped today on Monster Energy’s YouTube site.

Some may see it as the answer to 2010’s “My Friend is a Pro”, but we see it as much more than that. The production value is incredible and we find even more laughs around every corner.

With DJ Largechild producing the beats and the quality of rapping from Colby West (MC Sabretooth) and Jossi Wells (MC Chinchillin) tenfold greater, the music is easilly digestible to anyone, and I can guarantee that skiers everywhere will be quoting the lyrics on the hill for seasons to come.

DJ Largechild (Jared Leighty) has this to say “when the video dropped I realized – Wow, now I know how Michael Jackson felt when he released the best selling album of all time; Thriller. I better hire some body guards to keep the females at bay, case I’m going to be so famous.” … You are already famous DJ Largechild. Without further a due, here it is….. Ballin’ Kind Of

DJ Largechild watching the first cut.

MC Sabretooth after the hot tub scene. Don't ask us what he's wearing.

Red Bull Ski Jib Kings

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 10:43:00 -0400

Photo and video highlights from the 2013 Red Bull Ski Jib Kings at Cypress Mountain, BC. Photos provided by the Red Bull Content Pool.

Men's Podium

1st. Corey Vanular

2nd. Mack Jones

3rd. Liam Casey

Alex Bellemare Wins Canadian Shield at Mt. Tremblant

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 13:11:00 -0500

DISNEY XD X-ELERATOR (12&UNDER) BOYS
1. Luca Natale
2. Philippe Langvien
3. Alex Butt

DISNEY XD X-ELERATOR+ (13 – 15) GIRLS
1. Rachel Anderson

DISNEY XD X-ELERATOR+ (13 – 15) BOYS

1. Mathieu Langvien
2. Philippe Clairoux
3. Billy Berthiaume

K2 SKIS AMATEUR OPEN FEMALE
1. MAUDE THORIAULT – GAUTHIER

K2 SKIS AMATEUR OPEN MALE
1. SIMON GINGRAS
2. DAVID QUESNEL
3. FELIX GAUBREAU

SBC SKIER STANDOUT TRICK
FEMALE: YUKI TSUBOA $100 / 100 POINTS

SBC SKIER STANDOUT TRICK
MALE: NEVIN METZGER $100 / 100 POINTS

PRO OPEN FEMALE
1. YUKI TSUBOTA $2,000 / 10,000 POINTS
2. CASSANDRA SHARPE $400 / 8,500 POINTS
3. OLIVIA LANE $200 / 7,500 POINTS

PRO OPEN MALE
1. ALEX BELLEMARE $5,000 / 10,000 POINTS
2. IAN COSCO $1,000 / 8,500 POINTS
3. MATTHEW WILCOX $500 / 7,500 POINTS

Salomon Jib Academy at Blue

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 11:40:00 -0500

The first stop on the Canadian Jib Academy tour went off last Saturday at Blue Mountain, Ontario. It was great to be hosting a stop in Ontario again this year. Salomon athletes Iannick Brouillette, Jamieson Irvine, JD Zicat, Jen Crichton and Antoine Bourassa made the trip to coach and judge the 60 participants. The weather wasn't on our side for this stop with 60+km/h winds and snowfall but it didn’t stop the Salomon Crew and all the competitors to compete for a trip to sunny Mammoth in May.

After early laps through the park, we could already tell the talent was there. Every lap counted in the morning because only 18 skiers out of 60 would find themselves in the finals to battle for the grand prize.

After lunch, it was time for a rail jam session. Coaches would ask for tricks on the mic and the first competitor to execute them smoothly and with style won extra swag.

Finalists:
-   Emil Pasini
-   Jack Irvine
-   David Taylor
-   Charlie Pint
-   Tony Peters
-   Alex Benson
-   Ryan Bessette
-   Ryan Malone
-   Dylan Bessette
-   Lucas Vianna
-   Max Moffatt
-   Guiseppe Esposito
-   Christian Stormgaard
-   Gibson Bell
-   Rachael Anderson
-   Gillian Golosky
-   Rachael Karker
-   Carly Lavieille

Finals were a two run format with 2 rails and 2 jumps for the guys and a rail jam for the girls. The guys were killing it, some of the highlights were a steezy Flatspin 360, Front 270 out, Switch Rodeo 5, and finishing with a Cork 900 from Max Moffatt. It was a tight battle for first place but at the end of the day, Max Moffatt was the smoothest and had the cleanest runs.

Top guys:
1 : Max Moffatt – winner of a week at Mammoth Mountain with the Salomon pro team
2 : Charlie Pint
3 : Jack Irvine
4 : Lucas Vianna

Top girls:
1 : Rachael Anderson
2 : Gillian Golosky
3 tie : Rachael Karker and Carly Lavieille

All in all it was an awesome day that showed how fun the Jib Academy can be despite bad weather. A huge thank you goes out to all of the sponsors: Skullcandy, SBC Skier, Newschoolers, Momentum ski camps and everyone at Blue Mountain..

One down, two more to go, see you at the next Jib Academy stops:
March 10th – Saint Bruno, QC
March 18th – Silverstar, BC