The Freeride World Tour celebrated an awesome season kick-off in the heart of the Japanese Alps with great conditions. The face was freshly covered with 60+ centimeters of fresh snow, the sun was out and the winds were calm making for the perfect day to showcase the competition and the stunning terrain that Hakuba has to offer. The Japanese people were very welcoming and did a first class job hosting the event. It’s clear they are committed to growing the sport of Freeride skiing and making its presence known in Hakuba.
All the riders put on a great show. The Canadians made a strong appearance with the Peiffer twins debut at the tour and a surprise wildcard entry from the legendary Kye Petersen.
The first winners of the Freeride World Tour were crowned in Hakuba. Ariana Tricomi (ITA) secured her victory in the women’s ski competition, while in the men’s field Markus Eder (ITA) stomped an impeccable run with a stylish flatspin 360 and a transfer air with his sweet multidisciplinary style. Freeski founding father Tanner Hall (USA) placed second and Tom Peiffer (CAN) completed the podium.
MEN’S SKI HIGHLIGHT REEL FROM HAKUBA 2019
If you missed this year’s event, start planning to be there next year. You will not be disappointed… unless you don’t like untracked powder, short lift lines, and the best sashimi and ramen ever!
NEXT: GOLDEN BC
Next stop?! GOLDEN! Peep this article for how to do Freeride World Tour right at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort – see you there!
