Freeriders rip it up on East Rim

Whitefish Mountain Resort welcomed 95 of the region’s most talented young athletes last Saturday for the International Freeskiing and Snowboarding Association Junior 2 Regional Freeride event, on the resort’s East Rim. Despite challenging weather conditions, the event showcased outstanding skill, sportsmanship and resilience from junior competitors. 

The event, which typically consists of two runs, was modified to a single run after warm, spring-like conditions on Saturday gave way to unsafe, unfair and variable conditions on Sunday, leading organizers to cancel the finals in the interest of athlete safety. 

“While we always hope for a full weekend of competition, the safety of our athletes is our top priority,” said Kyle Taylor, Flathead Freeride Club head coach technical director for the competition. “We’re incredibly proud of all the competitors for their performances and flexibility in the face of changing mountain conditions.” 

Kyle Smith won the Campbell Smith Spirit of Freeride Award for his sportsmanship, on and off the slopes.  

Flathead Freeride Club extends its gratitude to all athletes, families, coaches, volunteers, the mountain events staff, ski patrol and the IFSA for making this event possible.  

Flathead Freeride Club (Flathead Valley Ski Education Foundation) results: 

U19 Women Ski: 

1st – Metta Campbell 

U19 Men Ski: 

1st – Ryder Hersom; 2nd – Zephir Heller; 3rd – Solan Taj Tallman; 4th – Cristiano Wright 

U15 Women Ski:   

1st – Hana Fassnacht; 2nd – Annika Hughes; 3rd – Peyton Wilson; 4th – Jacqueline Fortin 

U15 Men Ski: 

1st – Jack Garver; 2nd – PJ Ciganek; 4th – Oliver Hoppes 

    Jesse Deats prepares to go airborne Saturday at the IFSA competition at Whitefish Mountain Resort. (Photo provided)
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