Hotham to be first Australian ski resort to host Freeride World Tour events
Hotham ski resort will be the first Australian ski resort to host Freeride World Tour events, featuring both Qualifier and Junior competitions for ski and snowboard.
Freeride has become widely regarded as one of the most exciting snowsport competitions and in recognition as Australia’s premier freeriding destination, Hotham’s terrain with its natural half-pipes, gullies, bowls, and cliffs makes it an ideal venue for both competitors and spectators.
The competition events are scheduled for Saturday, 3rd August 2024 and will take place in Hotham’s Peach Bowl, nestled within the Heavenly Valley terrain area.
Tina Burford, Hotham’s Vice President & General Manager enthused “we are thrilled to bring the Freeride World Tour to Australia.
“This event is a perfect opportunity to showcase our resort and it's amazing terrain. It also provides a valuable platform for Australia's freeride skiers and riders to earn important FWT points without leaving the country.”
Benjamin Calmel, FWT Head of Sports Development added “Freeride contests are about celebrating terrain features in their natural form, there’s a start gate at the summit and a finish gate at the bottom – best run down wins.
“It’s the ultimate expression of all that is fun and liberating about sliding on snow in wintertime and we can’t wait to see the best freeriders in Australasia take on Hotham’s legendary runs.”
The hosted competitions will include a 1-star Freeride World Tour Qualifier for both open ski and snowboard categories, as well as a 1-star Freeride World Tour Junior event for both disciplines.
The event marks a significant milestone for the Freeride World Tour, especially following the recent recognition of Freeride Skiing and Snowboarding by the International Ski & Snowboard Federation (FIS). This recognition is a pivotal step in the global development of the sport, enhancing athlete support and paving the way for potential inclusion in future Winter Olympic Games.
Since its introduction in 2008, the Freeride World Tour has captivated the imaginations of freeride skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies alike. This awe-inspiring tour showcases the most legendary and challenging alpine faces at renowned ski resorts across the world, providing a platform for the world's top skiers and snowboarders to showcase their skills and push the boundaries of what is possible in freeride sports.
Further event updates and details on how to enter will be featured on hotham.com.au and social media channels.
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