On Dec. 9, many of Earth's most talented freestyle snowboarders will return to Edmonton, Alta. for the Style Experience presented by FIS. This one-of-a-kind World Cup big air contest will again take place in Commonwealth Stadium on the biggest urban snowboard jump in the world.
Among those trying to conquer the 15-storey challenge is Mark McMorris, one of the greatest winter athletes of his generation. Back in January, McMorris became the most decorated Winter X Games competitor of all time with 22 medals on that illustrious stage. The three-time Olympic bronze medallist turns 30 the day of the Edmonton event and will look to celebrate in style.
On the women's side, Jasmine Baird will try to defend her milestone championship from last year's Style Experience. The Whistlerite won her first World Cup big air gold medal in Commonwealth Stadium and is no doubt excited to return to such an important venue for her.
In addition to top-flight competition, the 2023 Style Experience aims to deliver a festival in celebration of snowboard culture. A stacked music offering will be headlined by Grandson (fresh off the release of his new studio album), feel-good DJ duo Skiitour, and Edmonton's very own Calling All Captains. Other entertainment options include a snow tubing park, a public ski jump and helicopter stadium flyovers.
The Sea to Sky-based Arena Snowparks have been transforming the Commonwealth Stadium since the day after Oct. 30's Heritage Classic. As the only big air contest ever held in a football stadium (and the biggest venue ever to host a show of this nature), the ramp taking centre stage is built from 100,000 pieces of scaffolding and 30,000 square metres of plywood.
More information is available online.
