The second annual Sprite Park Rider Series kicks off this Saturday, Jan. 18 with a halfpipe contest on Blackcomb Mountain. The series, which features snowboard cross, slopestyle and halfpipe events, is open to skier and boarders of all ages and abilities that have an interest in park riding.
Helmets are mandatory for all events and mouth guards are strongly recommended.
To enter, participants must sign a 2002-2003 event waiver, and minors under the age of 18 must have a waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian.
The cost is $20 per event, or $25 if you wish to register on race day, Jan. 18. In addition, competitors will be required to purchase a one-time Canadian Ski and Snowboard Association membership for $10.
Athletes can register prior to event day at Ski School Sales locations in the Blackcomb daylodge, Whistler Village Gondola or Carleton Lodge, or by calling the reservation centre at 1-800-766-0449. Day of competition registration is at the Rendezvous on Blackcomb Mountain prior to 9:45 a.m. Helmets are mandatory for all events and mouth guards are strongly recommended.
The Sprite Park Rider Series is primarily a local’s contest, but it is recognized as a regional qualifier for provincial and national level competitions by the British Columbia Snowboard Association.
Some of the past competitors in the series have gone on to compete at the World Cup level, including, most recently, Dan Raymond, Mercedes Nicoll, and Sarah Kopinya. Others, like skier Chris Turpin, have made their way into high-profile events like the Telus World Ski and Snowboard Festival.
Spectators are welcome at events.
