(February 2008) – The ORAGE EUROPEAN FREESKI OPEN BY SWATCH draws the Freeski world to the heart of Graubünden. For the third time in a row this international Freeski Event takes place at LAAX in Switzerland from 11-15 March 2008. A perfect set-up awaits up to 200 athletes from all over the world. Contests in the freestyle slopestyle and halfpipe disciplines will be held around the Crap Sogn Gion area. The qualification runs are open to all freestyle skiers. International top riders are seeded for the semifinals, and in the finals, the best of the best compete for prize money of US$ 60,000.
When they perform at LAAX in mid-March 2008, inquisitive amateurs and hot newcomers, as well as former winners, will conjure up fancy combinations in ‘park and pipe’. Past winners of the Freeski Open include absolute international stars like Virginie Faivre (Switzerland), Grete Eliassen (Norway), Candide Thovex (France), Simon Dumont (USA) and Jossi Wells (New Zealand).
For five days, everything and everyone on the mountain and in the valley revolve around Freeski. With breathtaking rotations over the kickerline in the Slopestyle Park, big airs down the 140 meter long Superpipe, and a live concert by “Turbonegro” at the Riders Palace Club, riders and visitors will certainly get their money’s worth. The event is made possible by the right partners. In LAAX, Swatch and Orage, three well-known brands are identified with Europe’s largest Freeski event. LAAX has been fulfilling skiers’ individual dreams for years, particularly when it comes to the freedom-loving demands of the young and young at heart on the Freeride or in the Snowparks. Swatch has supported the free-sports movement since its inception. Orage equips freestyle skiers with the best specialized clothing for fun in the snow and, with its own professional team, understands the athletes’ needs precisely. Last but not least, the helmet manufacturer Giro provides protection for the head. With positive commitment, longstanding experience and expertise, the partners and crew will make this international outdoor event into a real occasion.
