Some skiers and snowboarders prefer powder, others like hard, fast snow. But for the park riders who love to jump and jib, the best snow is spring quality "corn snow" that doesn't hamper your speed all that much and makes for soft, forgiving landings. That's what participants in the third King of the Rail event on Saturday, Feb. 11 had to work with at the base of Whistler Mountain.
The turnout was good, as usual, and the prize purse maxed out at $100 for a few of the categories. The prize purse is based on the number of entries in each category, starting at $15 for categories with only a few participants.
The athletes themselves vote for the winners after an hour and a half session on rails and boxes at the base of the mountain.
Zak Mousseau won the most votes in Ski Male 17 and Over, plus $100.
Sean Mallow was the top Snowboard Male 17 and Over jibber, also earning $100.
Josh Visser won the Ski Male 1 and Under group and $20.
Amanda Webster won Ski Female 17 and Over and $15.
Jess Rich won the Snowboard Female 17 and Over votes and $15.
Gord Michael Beaulieu and Christina Sherrington were voted King and Queen of the Rail.
One of the highlights of King of the Rail is the prize draw, which is open to all participants. Ben Wannamaker won a pair of Atomic skis, Mickael Belley won the Burton Snowboard and Oliver Jackson won the Nintendo Wii.
The fourth and final King of the Rail event is on Mar. 3, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Registraion is at Showcase Snowbards for $15, starting at 6 p.m. and there's a mandatory rider meeting before the event. Helmets are mandatory and mouthguards recommended, as well as waivers. Minors need a waiver signed by a parent or guardian.
