While the halfpipe discipline has lost its luster among slopestyle-crazy snowboarders in recent years, its popularity with younger skiers is through the roof.
The Park Rider Sessions presented by Telus hosted a halfpipe on Blackcomb last Sunday with skiers and riders getting two judged runs each, and the best of two runs counting in the overall standings. The biggest categories were Ski Boys 14 to 16 and Ski Boys 13 and Under, with 22 athletes taking part.
In Ski Boys 14 to 16 the winner by a long margin was Jin Kim Kwang with 28.9 points. He was followed by Michael Granger with a 21.4 and Adam Bruce with a 19.9.
In Ski Boys 13 and Under the top spot went to Mitchell Wilson with a 27.8, followed by brother Taylor Wilson with a 26.1 and Luke Smart with a 24.9.
In Ski Girls 14 to 16 Sophia McGregor was first with a 21.3, followed by Sarah Lawson with a 19.5.
In Ski Girls 13 and Under Mackenzie Wilson was first with an 18.3, followed by Sofiane Gagnon with a 15.2.
Kyle Smith was first in Snowboard Men 17 and Over with a 29.3, the highest score of the day. He was followed by Andrew Matthews with a 26.0.
Carrie Hall was first in Women Snowboard 17 and Over with a 21.6, followed by Ali Tracey with a 20.8 and Sandy Ward with an 18.9.
In Snowboard Boys 14 to 16 the top spot belonged to Luke Lattin with a 22.6. Zach Dolesky was second with a 16.8.
In Snowboard Boys 13 and Under it was Same Walser on top, followed by Garrett Lattin with a 15.5 and Finn Finestone with a 13.5.
The final event of the Park Rider Sessions is a slopestyle on Whistler on April 18, which takes place during the Telus World Ski and Snowboard Festival. Early registration is available at Whistler Blackcomb Guest Relations for $26, and day-of-event registration is $30 in the Roundhouse Lodge until 9:45 a.m.
Due to the popularity of slopestyle it's possible that some categories will sell out, and early registration is recommended.
Helmets are mandatory, mouthguards recommended, and waivers required for skiers and riders under the age of 18.
