Whistler, BC April 18 and 19, 2009
The World Ski and Snowboard festival kicked off in Whistler last night with a massive Big Air Competition. Why massive? The men’s finals had a massive field of 32 skiers with almost all skiers throwing massive doubles. In true festival fashion a live band played for the entire comp and while cirque du soleil antics and fire dancers entertained the crowd of thousands. Scott represented in force with Ian Cosco, Little John Strenio, Joss Christensen, Henrik Lampert and Hugo Pelletier all in the finals.
The field was condensed to the top 10 skiers after each rider put down two jumps. Cosco and LJ both advanced to the super final and after much head scratching we couldn’t figure out why Joss didn’t make the main as he stomped two huge, stylish doubles.
The format was a little confusing for the super final and as best I can tell each skier threw a 5, 7 and hit of choice. LJ stomped his way to 3rd place right behind Jacob Wester in 2nd and Shinji Osada.
Today was a rainy, foggy day in Whistler and played host to the Orage Masters. The Masters is a team event where ski companies compete head to head in teams of 4 (3 guys and 1 girl). Scott was represented by Tim Russell and Anna Borgman on Volkl, Joe Schuster and LJ on Line and Hugo Pelletier on 4Frnt.
Skiers skied through the rain and fog and spectators were treated to some solid skiing when the sucker holes allowed. Round after round went by and Team Volkl rallied straight to 1st place. Highlights were Matt Phillipi’s high marking, hand tapping on the top of the 20ft tree jib, Tim Russell throwing back flip variations on the bottom box into the crowd, Ahmet Dadali stomping everything and Anna Borgman cleanly navigating the slope course.
Two days into the festival and Scott skiers are representing. More updates to come as pipe qualifiers start tomorrow.
