The Mt. Baker Legendary Banked Slalom is an epic in the world of snowboarding with an all-star cast. The top names in the sport, even those who don’t compete any more, routinely make appearances at the event, and the 19 th anniversary race was no exception.
This year’s event went to snowboard legend Terje Haakonsen, with a time of one minute and 33.23 seconds, almost three seconds faster than the next pro.
Brett Carpentier was the top Canadian in fifth place with a 1:36.91.
Whistler’s Akasha Weisgarber finished 11 th in 1:39.92, and Pemberton’s Guy Deschenes was 13 th in 1:39:98. Jason Buckles was 25 th in 1:43.72, and Ian Beer 28 th in 1:44:05.
In the amateur women’s category, Veronique Masse of Whistler was 16 th in 2:17.48.
Garry Pendygrasse, a past winner in the masters 30 to 39 category, finished eighth in 1:44.51.
Brody Peterson was 14 th in the amateur men’s race in 1:48.09.
Although the race was the big draw, the loss of snowboard pioneer Craig Kelly to an avalanche in Revelstoke last month did not go unnoticed. Friends of the legend held a tribute to Kelly, followed by a 21-method grab salute – a move he practically invented.
Complete results are available at www.mtbaker.us
