Snowboard Magazine | BoardForce

Dolomiti Superski – Kronplatz review

nelly — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 22:22:47 +0000

Kronplatz we usually call Croplatz, because lots of Croatian visitors are there during winter time. The resort is situated in Dolomiti Superski on 2275m and has 114 km of slopes and 32 ski lifts where one of the newest also has heating seats even though we didn’t need them having incredible 6 sunny days.

One special thing of this aria is Dolomiti Super Freestyle consisted of 23 snowboard parks in 12 skiing area… We discovered the magnificent beauty of the Dolomites, world heritage site UNESCO. A majestic mountain setting as an invitation to pure joy. 1200 km of sun covered slopes are waiting us to come back in this area – Cortina d’Ampezzo, Kronplatz, Alta Badia, Val Gardena Alpe di Siusi, Val di Fassa/Carezza, Arabba/Marmolada, Sextner Dolomiten – Alta Pusteria, Val di Fiemme/Obereggen, San Marino di Castrozza/Rollepass, Valle Isarco, Trevalli – Moena/Luissa/San Pellegrino/Falcade, Civetta.

During our visit beginners part was opened. Intermediate part was half done and pro line was in preparation because lack of snow.

But don’t make this discourage you, because Snowpark Kronplatz is considered by South Tyrol’s biggest and coolest snowpark. The park has been built at the ski lift “Belvedere” and you can’t miss it, it is always under sun. It was one of the first snowparks in Alps prepared in this season.

Technical facts:

Start: 2,230 m
Length: 750-800 m
Area: 75,000 m²
Equipment: 4 lines of different levels of difficulty
Grooming: snow crawler, 2 shapers, about 3 hours each day
Curiosity: 100,000 m³ of snow is being used

Details:
The start of the snowpark is a big entrance table with a parking hut at 2,230 m altitude. It is parallel to the ski lift, about 750-800 m long, and ends at 2,060 m after a difference in altitude of 170 m.
Four different lines spread around the area of 75,000 m².

Pro Line: 3 sequent kickers of 14 m-25 m flat and 8 rails and boxes.

Medium Line: 6-7 tables with one kicker each other (10 m flat), various boxes and medium rails.

Easy Line: deep line with 6 kickers (6 m flat), easy boxes and rails on every table.

Furthermore, a Family Fun Line with 6 different wups and small ground loops, humps and a small castle is constructed for the ski schools.

Click here to view the embedded video.

This time we were more with skiers which gave us chance do discover more slopes than just Belvedere and snowpark.

We are supporting this resort since it was opened. On opening weekend I was really scared to come. There was no snow all around the Europe and I just thought we gonna end up picking flowers. But when Kronplatz crew says, you can come, than you really can come and snowboard or ski on more or less all the slopes, not being worried in what conditions they are, because Kronplatz is already well known as one of the resorts with the perfect slopes.

Kronplatz is one of only few skiing resorts in the Alps which boast 5 black slopes: Sylvester, Herrnegg, Piculin, Pre da Peres and Erta.

We passed first three where I have to announce that first two we passed only during night time when all après ski at Cima finished. But don’t do this if you are weak, if you are beginner or being drunk!!!

You will never be bored over there… at cca 3 o’clock après ski party over there starts… at 5 o’clock last cable goes down and everything continues at K1 or glass tent (or hothouse – this is how we called this place)… till 8 o’clock… than dinner and shower… and all Croatians are heading to aprèsl après, après ski party at Piano bar.

Don’t worry, if you are coming with someone who doesn’t know how to ski or snowboard at top of Kronplatz there are situated couple of schools for all ages.

Prices of accommodation are not so expensive, already from 28 EUR/night you can find a room with breakfast included.

I hope next year we also gonna visit this incredible place who combines great snowboarding/skiing with great slopes, good weather and lots of après ski parties with happy people!

For more info visit: www.kronplatz.com or www.dolomitisuperski.com/

Written by Nelly Mance

Photos by Alen Zamlić, Domagoj Badanjak

TSG launches new ski and snowboard helmets for kids and youngsters

nelly — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 21:54:48 +0000

TSG launches new ski and snowboard helmets for kids and youngsters Zurich, Switzerland, Januar 20th, 2012: TSG extends its kids helmet range with the launch of two new winter sports models for 2012. Both the Arctic Nipper Mini and the Arctic Nipper Maxi will be the number one head protection options for even the youngest shredders on the hill.
Following the successful introduction of the in-mold bike and skateboard helmets for kids in summer 2011, the 2012 winter season has TSG offering two junior models specifically designed for winter sports use. The Arctic Nipper Mini provides the perfect fit for ski novices of two years and older who have a head girth of 48 cm and larger, whereas the Arctic Nipper Maxi protects heads with a 52 – 54 cm girth making it perfect for kids, youngsters and small adults’ head shapes.
Lightweight with safe, anti-slip hold Weighing only 290 grams (Arctic Nipper Mini) and 350 grams (Arctic Nipper Maxi), the new
kids helmets are beyond the lightest in-mold half-shell helmets on the market. Combining the lightweight design with TSG’s specially designed anatomical helmet shell makes for a totally anti-slip and safe fit. Unlike many other helmets, this model has not been compressed and rounded at the front and back only, the sides of the helmet shell have been adapted to the lateral curvatures of the head as well. This way, TSG has not only created a slimmer helmet profile but also a helmet with superior fit and wearing comfort, without slipping or coming loose.
Incredibly easy size adaption
Both helmets come with a four-part set of interior padding for perfect adaption of the helmet to the individual head shape and size. The Tuned Fit System with two sets of pads of different sizes enables the helmet to “grow with the head”. Classic shape for the style conscious The sleek half-shell design with patented TSG open ventilation shape suits the taste of style-conscious riders looking for a simple and low-profile helmet. The range includes monochrome models for women and men with smaller head shapes, and more playful designs for kids.
Certified protection
TSG helmets sit as low on the head as possible without restricting the freedom of movement. The lower back section of the Arctic Nipper helmets also covers the cervical vertebra (atlas), which holds and carries the entire head. Both helmets meet the EN 1077B
safety requirements of the European Committee for Standardization and the ski helmet requirements of the US-American ASTM 2040 standard.

Retail price starts from 65.90 Euro

The Yeti moves to Avoriaz for the Protest French Fries Rookie 3Star Slopestyle – 3.5 february 2012

nelly — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 21:40:18 +0000

After Livigno the World Rookie Tour move west for the 3star slopestyle Protest French Fries Rookie Fest 2012, a slopestyle contest in the beautiful Avoriaz, France. This event will assign 12 spot for the end of season Protest World Rookie Finals in Ischgl, the most important youth snowboard event of 2012.

The program include also a Red Bull photoshooting to offer the partecipants the chance to get a shot from a professional snowboard photographer. Don’t miss your chance to conquer a spot for the Protest World Rookie Finals and save the date: 3.4.5 february, Avoriaz, France.

Prizes for Protest French Fries Rookie Fest in Avoriaz
- 2 All inclusive tickets for the Protest World Rookie Finals 2012 in Ischgl Austria (including free accomodation in half board, liftticket, entryfee … Value 350€ each). This prizes will be awarded to best rookie male and best grom male
- The top 3 from every category (rookie boy, rookie girl, grom boy, grom girl) are qualified to the Protest World Rookie Finals in Ischgl (not for free)
- Gifts from the event sponsors Protest, Ride, Tech Riders, Chuckbuddies Inscription cost Participation Protest French Fries Rookie Fest in Avoriaz

Participation costs for the Protest French Fries Rookie Fest 2012 in Avoriaz

- Inscription € 10 (Free for My Snowboarding members)
- Lift-ticket Avoriaz: 15€/day for competitoris - 20€/day for coach and parents

Age groups
Rookies: born in 1994,1995 and 1996
Grom: born 1997 and over.

THE BURTON PARK JAM TOUR 2012 KICKS OFF IN AVORIAZ

nelly — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 22:39:48 +0000

Great snow conditions and bluebird skies welcomed the many young amateur riders who gathered on the 14th of January in Avoriaz, France, for the first stop of the Burton Park Jam Tour. Arriving from Italy, France and UK, the attending shredders aged 10 to 17 found a perfectly shaped slopestyle course where to perform their best tricks and impress the judges during the 3 scheduled jam sessions of 45 minutes each.

The crew from La Chapelle Snowpark has done a wonderful job in preparing the contest set-up, allowing riders to get very creative on the 3 available lines set in the higher part of the course: a kicker-line made of 3 kickers with medium and large take offs and followed by bonking features, and 2 rail lines beginning with a tree-bonk and followed by a 5 meters down rail, a flat box and a C box. In the lower part of the park, riders could finally choose between a down-flat-down-rail and a C-box followed by a bonking-bowl or an up-down box, and ending with a massive S-shaped box.

With such an amazing set-up, Burton team rider Niels Schack commentating the action and a cheerful attending crowd, the riding level went immediately very high in both rider categories. And it went even further after the official Burton Park Jam Tour BBQ and the DJ-set provided by DJ Yoplayer, which allowed riders to recover energy before the third and final session.

In the Mens class (15 to 18 years), local French riders dominated the scene since the very beginning and secured all three podium places throwing out massivebackside 7’s, inverted 5’s and rodeo flips on the big kicker-line. 17-year-old Nicola Savaye (FRA) ended on the highest step of the podium followed by comrades Tom Picamoles (FRA) and Simon Moscit (FRA). Theo Ramon (FRA) won the Boys class (14 years and younger) in front of 10 year old Jake Binnee (GBR) and Loan Bozzolo (FRA). To watch the official edit of the event, please head to

Click here to view the embedded video.

BPJT 2012, FINAL RESULTS – AVORIAZ (FRA):

Kids (14 years and younger)

1. Theo Ramon (FRA)

2. Jake Binnee (GBR)

3. Loan Bozzolo (FRA)

4. Gautien Gallas (FRA)

5. Mathis Bozzolo (FRA)

Mens (15 to 18 years)

1. Nicola Savaye (FRA)

2. Tom Picamoles (FRA)

3. Simon Moscit (FRA)

4. Dylan Pecchio (ITA)

5. Paul Meyniez (FRA)

Nikita snowbord news

nelly — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 23:00:57 +0000

Nikita always have some good news… I think you will enjoy watching this crazy girly snowboard videos

Lisa Filzmoser and her True Color Films buddies have released two out of three movie edits collectively known as ‘Snow Cones and Cotton Candy’. The first part of the trilogy is shot in Japan where you’ve never seen so much powder -

Click here to view the embedded video.

, the next stop hits up Canada -

Click here to view the embedded video.

and we’re eagerly awaiting the final part filmed in Europe, due out for release soon.

DON’T BE DISCOURAGED

An injury can be a pretty depressing time but stay positive and take some inspiration from Nikita rider Ana Rumiha. She got the idea to film her rehab process from surgery on her knee to her first day on the snow – “maybe it can help somebody not to be too bummed over a slow down”. It’s amazing what you can achieve when you wanna do something so bad.

Click here to view the embedded video.

JACKETS PLEASE

It’s time to take cover as the cold snap rears its head and Nikita has an abundance of jackets that will be your best friend this winter. Insulation and faux fur lining certainly help to feel snug so if you’re looking for a clever idea, here are some suggestions; Andvari Jacket, Garuda Blazer, Alberich Down Vest, Aesir Jacket, Airmid Jacket and Anshar Jacket (see images attached).

LADIES FIRST CHALLENGE 2012 IS ON!

After announcing that the LADIES FIRST CHALLENGE 2012 is on, Maude and comrades have released the first teaser, made by Roger Prod – http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xmnixs_teaser-lfc-2012_sport. It kicks off 14^th January 2012 in THYON, with prize money of CHF 1′500.- for snowboard and CHF 500.- for ski. Register here – www.ladiesfirstchallenge.ch

TSG and MIPS Team Up to Provide the Safest Head Gear in the World: Arctic Kraken+

nelly — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 22:50:53 +0000

TSG and MIPS Team Up to Provide the Safest Head Gear in the World: Arctic Kraken+ Zurich, Switzerland, December 21st, 2011: TSG joins forces with the Swedish leader in helmet safety technology MIPS to further improve TSG’s award-winning Kraken helmet. The new Kraken+ will feature not only TSG’s FlexTech innovation but also MIPS’ revolutionary MIPS protection system that absorbs damaging rotational forces to the head, creating the world’s safest head protection.
MIPS and TSG have the best helmet technologies in the world: MIPS with its innovative and patented Multi-directional Impact Protection System (MIPS), and TSG with its award-winning FlexTech innovation (a flexible interior for individual head shapes).
The new Kraken+ with MIPS technology combines the two technologies to become the world’s safest head protection and also the most comfortable and most flexible helmet on the market. The Kraken+ will be on the market for spring 2012. The winter sport edition Arctic Kraken+ will be presented at Ispo and launched in automn 2012.
Imitating the brain’s own protection system MIPS is a unique protection technology that has been developed by Swedish scientists
during the last 15 years to reduce brain injuries. It mimics the protective properties of the human brain. In its basic version, the MIPS system adds a low-friction layer between the outer shell of the helmet and the liner. The outer shell slides on impact, thereby absorbing a great portion of the rotational forces affecting the brain at an angled impact, ensuring maximum protection to the head.
Flexible interior for wearing comfort, adaptability and safety The Kraken+ features a flexible interior shell. It adapts to not only the size but the entire shape of the head. The FlexTech interior shell fits snug but won‘t cramp or put too much pressure on certain points of the head. Plus, the multi-part shell shows superior impact energy distribution results providing maximum comfort and safety.
“I am glad that the trend for safer helmets has become so strong that one of the finest brands in the world, TSG, has decided to use the MIPS protection system to make an already very safe helmet even safer – the safest in the world. Our objective is to make MIPS the new global standard for helmet safety, and we are well on our way”, said Niklas Steenberg, CEO, MIPS. “Our aim has always been to offer high-performance safety gear with superior fit, style and protection performance. With its groundbreaking protection system, MIPS fits nicely in our quest to make the helmets as safe as possible. We believe that the new Kraken+ will be a
huge success with the consumers”, said Ruedi Herger, CEO, TSG.
The new Kraken+ and Arctic Kraken+ offer the ultimate in technology, safety and style.
About TSG:
Founded in 1988, TSG (Technical Safety Gear) set out to develop superior safety gear, which skateboarders would really
want to wear for its fit, style and protection performance. Today, Zurich-based TSG International AG is one of the world’s
most comprehensive international suppliers and distributors of action sport safety gear. “Designed by riders” has always been
in the brand’s DNA: TSG strongly cooperates with their team athletes in the development, design and test of their products.
And to make sure TSG deserves the customer’s trust, all helmets and proterctors are certified by an officially authorized
laboratory. To learn more about TSG, please visit: www.ridetsg.com.
About MIPS
MIPS is the global leader in helmet safety technology with its revolutionary and patented MIPS protection system (Multidirectional
Impact Protection System). A MIPS equipped helmet has an additional low-friction layer built in to reduce rotational damage to the brain and ensure maximum protection. MIPS supplies its patented MIPS system to manufacturers of motorcycle, equestrian, ice hockey, American football, bike and ski/snowboarding helmets all over the world. MIPS was founded in 2001 and has its roots in biomechanical and neuroscientific research at the Royal Institute of Technology and the Karolinska Institute in Sweden, two of the world’s leading technical and medical universities. The company is based in Stockholm, Sweden. Please see www.mipshelmet.com.
The pictures show the deformation of the brain from an angled impact when the user is wearing a conventional helmet and a helmet with MIPS technology. Red color indicates more serious damage to the brain.

First Session in the Snowpark Schöneben!

nelly — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 22:09:53 +0000

In the boarder area between Italy, Austria and Switzerland, and only a little more than a one hour’s drive away from Innsbruck, there lies the sunny Snowpark Schöneben, which has long outlived its reputation as an insiders’ tip. The setup is already quite a sight and as soon as on the 14^th of January 2012, the park on the Reschenpass will be turned into an event location! The QParks Tourstop Battle ROJal will be the first international contest for freeskiers and snowboarders in the Snowpark Schöneben! Already this week 6 freestylers and park designer Christoph Schrammel grabbed their snowboards and freeskis and headed off to the Snowpark Schöneben for the “First Session” shooting. In an interview, professional freeskier Alessandro Conci told us how the shooting day went and why the Snowpark Schöneben is definitely worth a visit.

Hey Alessandro, you were there in the Snowpark Schöneben on Monday and experienced one of the first shootings of the season at perfect weather conditions. How was the day?

“The shooting was just great! The park structures were shaped perfectly and the Snowpark Schöneben offers an unbelievable panorama! So, Monday was a perfect day and i’m really looking forward to the QParks Tourstop “Battle ROJal” on the 14th of January 2012! ”

Which obstacle is your personal highlight in the Snowpark Schöneben?

“Phew… I generally like almost all the elements in the park! I especially like jibbing the Double Kink Rail in the Snowpark Schöneben! It depends on my physical condition, though, to decide which obstacle I will go for in the end!”

What was your „best trick of the day“?

(laughs) “Actually, it was my Switch Butter Slide 270 – in Pretzel 270 out Double Kink. I only managed to pull it off once and we didn’t even capture that. Oh well…”

In your opinion, what makes the Snowpark Schöneben so special?

The park structures are perfectly shaped, the kickers and boxes are very smooth and also the Pro-rails aren’t set up too high. This means that, even if you do fall down, it’s not dangerous and you can thus try new tricks on the bigger boxes! Additionaly, there’s a beautiful lake in Schöneben, a great panorama and, of course, a fantastic snowpark!! ”

Listening to Alessandro’s account of the shooting day in the Snowpark Schöneben, really makes us eager to grab our snowboards and freeskis and instantly head off to the park ourselves!

All further information about the park and the events are available on the Snowpark Schöneben webpage and on the Facebook Fanpage! Here you also get the information about how you can win a stay at the Battle ROJal!

Blue Tomato goes Europe with the Best Urban Shot Contest

nelly — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 22:04:15 +0000

Creative Photo and Video Contest for all Snowboarders and Freeskiers

The international online shop for boardsports Blue Tomato is on a search for the most creative photos and videos by snowboarders and freeskiers from Europe. At the ‘Best Urban Shot’ contest, all city shredders are invited to hit the rails and obstacles of Europe’s largest cities. Ideally, a well-known landmark of the chosen city should be visible in the photo or video. All artworks entered into the contest will be judged by an expert jury. There is over 2.000 € in cash to be won.

The winners of the categories Best Snowboard Photo, Best Snowboard Video, Best Freeski Photo and Best Freeski Video will be rewarded with 500 € in cash, each. The second and third places are winners too, and will be showered with high value goodies by sponsors such as: Atomic Freeskiing, Nitro Snowboarding, Raiden, GoPro and Blue Tomato, of course!

In order to guarantee all contestants an even higher media presence, the results will be featured on GoTV, Mpora, Skiing Magazine, snowboarder MBM and the Red Bull Media House.

The Blue Tomato Shop in Vienna will host a sick party for the award ceremony crowning the ‘Blue Tomato Best Urban Shot’.

So, get off of your computer, get your crew together, hit the streets and start shooting! Entries will be accepted immediately.

Conditions of Participation

By sending a simple e-mail to besturbanshot@blue-tomato.com, you can register for the ‘Blue Tomato Best Urban Shot’.
Additionally, you will get a free Stickerbag with the ‘Best Urban Shot’ stickers and the ‘Best Urban Shot’ logo. They are also available at the Blue Tomato Shops in Vienna, Schladming and Graz.
To ensure that only current photo and video shots are entered, the ‘Best Urban Shot’ logo or the ‘Best Urban Shot’ sticker must be placed visibly in the photo or video.
The deadline is February, 29 2012, all entries must be sent by e-mail to: besturbanshot@blue-tomato.com.
500 € in cash await the winners of each of four categories: Best Snowboard Photo, Best Snowboard Video, Best Freeski Photo and Best Freeski Video.

Pirate Log 9/10 snowboard video

nelly — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 22:00:45 +0000

The Pirate Log season is almost done – here is Log#9 - See for yourself how Juuso, Stian, Erik and Tyler turned more and more into white trash after staying in the US for a few weeks:

Click here to view the embedded video.

World Rookie Tour Christmas Video Gift

nelly — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 22:16:33 +0000

Late snowfalls didn’t effect the World Rookie Tour calendar 2012 and the upcoming kick-off events of are confirmed. In addition, as a special Christmas gift, the World Rookie Tour crew announces today the release of a full leght movie about the Rookie Trip to Chile 2011, featuring some of the best riders in the tour: Martin Mikyska, Sven Thorgren, Havard Bergheim, Fridtjof Saether Tichendorf and Max Glatzl. All of them won an all inclusive filming trip on the Andes to enjoy the true spirit of snowboarding.

Watch the teaser here:

Click here to view the embedded video.

The movie was filmed and edited by “I-Like by Mone Monsberger“ and the world premiere will happen on saturday 14 january in Livigno, during the Protest World Rookie Fest 2012. From 20 january the full leght movie will be available for free download on www.worldrookietour.com.

While the Black Yeti is celebrating the winter season with a special Santa Claus session on the Alps, all the rookies can pack their boardbags and organize their trips to the Transilvania Rookie Fest in Arena Platos, Romania (from 6 to 8 january), and to the legendary Protest World Rookie Fest in Livigno, Italy (from 14 to 18 january).

Merry Christmas from the Black Yeti and the World Rookie Tour!

World Rookie Tour 2012 Calendar
Transilvania Rookie Fest – Arena Platos, Romania – January 6-8 – 2Star, slopestyle
Protest World Rookie Fest – Livigno, Italy – January 14-18 – 3Star, slopestyle
Protest French Fries Rookie Fest – Avoriaz, France – February 3-5 – 3Star, slopestyle
Halfpipe Rookie Fest – Monte Bondone Trentino, Italy – February 8-11 – 3Star halfpipe
Canuck Chuck Rookie Fest Canada – Horseshoe Resort, Canada – February 24-26 – 3Star, slopestyle
Ride East Rookie Fest – Splinderuv Mlyn, Czech Republic March 16-18 - 3Star, slopestyle
Protest World Rookie Finals – Ischgl, Austria – April 11-15 – 4Star, slopestyle
Summer Rookie Camp – Val Senales, Italy- June 30 – July 14 – Training Camp
Australia Rookie Fest - Thredbo, Australia – July (date tbd) – 3Star slopestyle
South America Rookie Fest – Valle Nevado, Chile – August (date tbd) – 2Star slopestyle

Follow the Yeti and the World Rookie Tour online at:
www.worldrookietour.com
www.facebook.com/worldrookietour
www.vimeo.com/channels/worldrookietour
www.worldsnowboardfederation.org

Photocredit from “Yeti Santa Claus Session”: Gianluca Jimmi Zanetti

Chapter XI – full Blue Tomato Snowboard team movie out now!

nelly — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 21:27:55 +0000

22 minutes of progressive snowboard action and stylish tricks by the Blue Tomato team

New season, new chapter, new movie! ‘Chapter XI’ is the name of Blue Tomato’s newest film production this winter, available on DVD or online.

The new snowboard team movie by the international online shop for boardsports, Blue Tomato, definitely lives up to the standards set by its predecessor, ‘ZOIO’. Get ready for even more progressive rail action, steezy tricks and beautiful backcountry lines, all combined to make ‘Chapter XI’ a snowboard film extremely worth watching. Topped off with plenty of awesome beats, this movie is guaranteed to have you sat on the edge of your seat.

International stars like Marc Swoboda, Ville Uotila and Kareem El Rafie, as well as budding pros Dominik Wagner, Mathias Weißenbacher, Urska Pribosic, Florian Galler and Viktor Szigeti, show off their skills in this exciting new movie.

The film is made up of eight parts, including a mixed part with tricks by Adam Granqvist, Clemens Schattschneider, Philipp Gruber, Roland Scharmer, Vanessa Waldenhofer, Diz Pichler, Franki Wörndl, Georgi Mihaylov and the three rookies, Tuomas Pohjohnen and brothers Max and Tobi Grünwald.

The official premiere took place in November 2011 at the ‘Pleasure Jam Warm Up Party’ at the Blue Tomato headquarters in Schladming. A small circle of guests was invited to preview the self-produced movie and everyone was thrilled with the result.

If you, too, would like to feast your eyes on Blue Tomato’s newest production, check it out online at http://vimeo.com/bluetomato/chapterxi!

The single parts are available at http://www.blue-tomato.com/chapterxi. And for all you DVD collectors out there, you can pick up your very own ‘Chapter XI’ DVD at any Blue Tomato shop. Be sure to stop by!

Hard facts

Full Movie:

Click here to view the embedded video.

Rider: Marc Swoboda, Ville Uotila, Kareem El Rafie, Dominik Wagner, Mathias Weißenbacher, Urska Pribosic, Florian Galler, Viktor Szigeti, Adam Granqvist, Clemens Schattschneider, Philipp Gruber, Roland Scharmer, Vanessa Waldenhofer, Diz Pichler, Franki Wörndl, Georgi Mihaylov, Tuomas Pohjohnen, Max Grünwald, Tobi Grünwald

Next QParks Tourstop: „Battle ROJal Schöneben“

nelly — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 09:56:10 +0000

We are proud to welcome one of the most beautiful snowparks in Europe as a host of the QParks Tour: We present to you the “Battle ROJal” on January 14, 2012, in the Snowpark Schöneben! We’re looking for the ROJal couple – Who’s gonna become King and Queen ROJal? Get ready for DRAMA; GLORY and 1.500€ prize money in the heart of South Tyrol!

In the border area between Italy, Austria and Switzerland, and only a little more than a one hour’s drive away from Innsbruck, there lies the sunny Snowpark Schöneben, which has long outlived its reputation as an insiders’ tip. As soon as on the 14th of January 2012, the park on the Reschenpass will be turned into an event location for the first time in QParks Tour history! So get ready for a backload of entertainment, action and lifestyle!

Contest Set-Up

The setup will not only let the hearts of all riders leap with joy, but also challenge them to the fullest. Apart from a 3-kicker line with tables between 5 and 13 meters, the shapecrew has also come up with some special treats, so it’ll definitely be a challenge for all adrenaline junkies. The registration starts now on www.qparkstour.com!

What’s in the pot?

For the spectators the same question arises over and over again: Why do riders catapult themselves to such dizzying heights, dance across rails and pull off daredevil maneuvers on the various obstacles? 3000€ cash, that’s why! But that is not all! Besides fame, honor and important Tour points, tons of goodies from TSG and QParks await them. We are excited – who’s got what it takes to be crowned King and Queen ROJal?

Riders Voting – Win a Balicamp Trip

All competitors get the additional chance to win a phat, two-week stay at the legendary Balicamp! Just register for the contest on www.qparkstour.com and collect votes – both, the stage winners and those who get the most votes get the chance to win the stay in the Balicamp in the big voting finals. Via a lottery, all the diligent voters will get their chance, too, to win an awesome protection package, consisting of a TSG helmet, an Amplifi back protector and a Neff QParks Tour Beanie. At each Tourstop, one of these packages will given away. Participation pays in any case!

Hottest Shot – Hot enough for Bali?

NOT only the riders can win a Balicamp trip – at the Hottest Shot photo contest, everyone can participate! Just take a picture during the Battle ROJal in the Snowpark Schöneben, send it to info@qparkstour.com, collect the most votes and win big at the Hottest Shot Finals!

For the carless people out there, or those who don’t want to drive alone, check go-shred for carpools!

As usual, you can find all the information about the contest, the registration, the raffles and much more on www.qparkstour.com.

Mitja Kodrić snowboard video

nelly — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 09:48:31 +0000

It is always nice to receive some video stuff from riders… This time its word about one of the best Slovenian snowboarders and wakeboarders – Mitja Kodrić… Check it out here…

Click here to view the embedded video.

Burton European Open 2012 – Rider Registration Extended

nelly — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 22:03:26 +0000

The snowboard contest season has started, Europe finally got some snow, and preparations are in full swing for the 13^th annual Burton European Open (BEO) presented by MINI, taking place from Feb. 25th – March 3rd, 2012 at LAAX in Switzerland. To make sure all riders have plenty of time to register to compete at this world-class snowboard event, the BEO has extended the online registration process until January 14^th, 2012.

To register to compete, snowboarders should head to www.opensnowboarding.com and look for the BEO page. Registration is open for juniors, men and women in the pre-qualification rounds for both halfpipe and slopestyle.

At the BEO, snowboarders who make it through pre-qualifiers and qualifiers will have the chance to take home a piece of the $125,000 prize purse, in addition to valuable points towards the TTR and Burton Global Open Series (BGOS) ranking lists. Also at the BEO, riders will compete for the second generation of the Creative Use of Space Award, presented by MINI. This season’s Creative Use of Space (CUOS) Award once again draws on the MINI philosophy of utilizing space intelligently. Prize money for the Creative Use of Space Award will go to the male and female riders who throw down the most progressive tricks in the halfpipe and slopestyle competitions at the BEO. In addition, the resort crew that builds the most creative CUOS slopestyle feature during the BGOS series will win $5,000.

Below is the latest BEO competition schedule:

BEO Event Schedule:

Saturday, Feb. 25th, 2012: Slopestyle Junior Contest

Sunday, Feb. 26th, 2012: Halfpipe Junior Contest, Slopestyle Pre-Qualification Men

Monday, Feb. 27th, 2012: Halfpipe Pre-Qualification Men/Slopestyle Qualification Women & Men

Tuesday, Feb. 28th, 2012: Halfpipe Qualification Women & Men

Wednesday, Feb. 29th, 2012: Slopestyle Semi-Finals Women & Men

Thursday, March 1st, 2012: Slopestyle Finals Women & Men

Friday, March 2nd, 2012: Halfpipe Semi-Finals Women & Men

Saturday, March 3rd, 2012: Halfpipe Finals Women & Men

The BEO will also feature a live webcast from Feb. 29th – March 3rd, 2012 on www.redbull.tv and www.burton.com so everyone can watch the action.

For more information on the BEO, head to www.opensnowboarding.com, www.facebook.com/BurtonEuropeanOpen and www.facebook.com/BurtonEurope.

Please find the BEO 2012 teaser here:

Click here to view the embedded video.

TTR & WSF ANNOUNCE WILDCARD PROCEDURE FOR WORLD SNOWBOARDING CHAMPIONSHIPS

nelly — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 21:59:37 +0000

TTR & WSF announce the wildcard procedure for the 2012 World Snowboarding Championships in Oslo, Norway. After cancellations and postponements of important qualifier competitions on the TTR World Tour calendar, the questions about wildcards are increasing. The final list of wildcards will be announced on January 30th, 2012.

In principle, there are only two wildcards per contest for men and women, but since several riders have been able to qualify for WSC multiple times, their extra spots revert back to wildcards, which can be passed on to different riders. Additionally, if a qualified rider gets injured prior to WSC and cannot attend, their spot will also revert back to a wildcard. These wildcards are strictly for top riders that have been injured, or for other valid reasons have been disconnected from the competition scene.

Independent Wildcard committee
The TTR and WSF have established an independent wildcard committee in order to determine which rider will be granted wildcard spots at the World Snowboarding Championships 2012. The committee consist of 6 members (3 from TTR and 3 from WSF) with in depth snowboard know-how. The members will remain anonymous in order to avoid external influence on their decision making.

The WSC 2012 wildcard process
The appointed wildcard committee will be responsible for selecting the male and female riders to obtain the wildcards to participate in the WSC. Interested athletes will be required to submit a ‘Wildcard Application’, which can be downloaded from the WSC website. Applications must be sent to wildcard@wsc2012.com, between now and to January 23^rd 12pm, 2012. The first round of wildcard decisions will be made on Jan 10, 2012. The final list of wildcards will be announced on January 30^th.

For more information please visit www.wsc2012.com

Burton Team Rider Kevin Pearce Gets Back on his Snowboard Again

nelly — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 22:35:25 +0000

Burton Snowboards is proud to congratulate Burton team rider Kevin Pearce on his first day back on a snowboard since he suffered a traumatic brain injury while training for the Olympics in 2009.

Kevin has been a part of the Burton family for years, receiving his first snowboard from Jake Burton himself back when he was just five years old. In 2004, Kevin earned his first official sponsorship with Burton Snowboards after a Burton team manager was impressed with his riding during summer camp at Mt. Hood. From that point on, Kevin started showing up on podiums everywhere, with career highlights like consecutive Arctic Challenge victories, a pair of Air & Style wins, multiple X Games medals and back-to-back European Open wins.

Everything changed in an instant when Kevin suffered a traumatic brain injury while attempting a Cab double cork during a halfpipe training session on December 31, 2009. Since then, Kevin has spent nearly two years putting all his energy into rehab, re-learning things we all take for granted like eating, walking, talking, balancing and seeing.

Until recently, Kevin didn’t know if he would ever be able to snowboard again. So when he got the green light from his doctors it was a dream come true, and everything came together yesterday as he strapped on his board for the first time since the accident. Jake Burton was honored to join Kevin for his inaugural runs at Vail yesterday, before Kevin headed to Breckenridge to ride with friends and fans.

Click here to view the embedded video.

“To get to this point in his recovery, Kevin has worked harder and has had more determination than anyone I know,” said Jake Burton, Founder and CEO of Burton Snowboards. “His positive attitude and sense of humor through it all has inspired millions of people, including me personally in a big way. I couldn’t be happier to be here with Kevin to get back on snow with him. It was a day I’ll never forget.”

In a pretty historic moment yesterday, Jake switched out his ‘I Ride for Kevin’ snowboard sticker (the grassroots campaign Burton created back in 2009 to show support for Kevin) with a new Burton sticker that says ‘Ride with Kevin’. The new message pretty much says it all. To see Kevin’s first moments back on snow, check out the video at

In honor of Kevin’s amazing milestone, today on Wednesday, December 14^th Burton will donate 10% of all proceeds from its sales on burton.com (US site) to traumatic brain injury research. For more information, please head to www.burton.com.

For a look back at Kevin’s snowboard career and recovery process, check out his timeline at www.burton.com/kevinpearce and his new website at www.kevinpearce.com

Dolomiti Super Freestyle: 21 x Pure Freestyle Action Combined with Italian Flair!

nelly — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 21:59:56 +0000

It’s all true! With only one ticket you can shred a staggering total of 21 snowparks! You only get that in Dolomiti Super Freestyle! Part of the Dolomiti Superski network, a cooperation of 12 skiing resorts in the Dolomites, Dolomiti Super Freestyle gives you a network consisting of 21 parks which you can all access with only one ticket. Live the freestyle spirit on the best playground imaginable!

Who’s going to face the challenge of shredding every one of those snowparks? We’ll accept the challenge and, armed with cameras, we’ll visit every single park of Dolomiti Super Freestyle. We’ll also be present at some of the countless events, capturing the best tricks and the stunning atmosphere. The clips will of course be available on www.dolomitisuperski.com in the freestyle section. In order to make it easier for you to find your way around the Dolomites and its extensive number of snowparks, we’ve created a Pocket Guide, containing short descriptions of every single snowparks, as well as a map and all event dates that have been fixed so far. The Pocket Guide will be available at all valley stations in time for the beginning of the new season and with it you’ll be fully equipped to explore the Dolomites! No matter if you’re a beginner or a pro, at Dolomiti Super Freestyle you’re in good hands and in addition to the countless rails, kickers, halfpipes and the boardercross you’ll also get the unique flair Italy is famous and loved for. On top of that you can expect culinary treats waiting for you in the countless lodges and restaurants.

For more information on the countless events and shootings, visit www.dolomitisuperski.com or follow us on Facebook!

Nikita Newsbite November and Highlights…

nelly — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 22:09:04 +0000

The jingle bells are starting to ring and here’s some more bits from NIKITA to keep you smiling… Below are some highlights and attached is the Newsbite update from November featuring team, events and happenings.

MUST-SEE

Click here to view the embedded video.

, the next stop hits up Canada -

Click here to view the embedded video.

and we’re eagerly awaiting the final part filmed in Europe, due out for release soon.

DON’T BE DISCOURAGED

Click here to view the embedded video.

JACKETS PLEASE

LADIES FIRST CHALLENGE 2012 IS ON!

SIGMA – Völkl Snowboards team movie out now

nelly — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 21:50:56 +0000

Völkl Snowboards Team Movie 2011 … Watch the Völkl Snowboard Team riding powder, grinding ledges, sliding rails, hitting table tops, pushing doubles and escaping avalanches …

Rider: Martin Seiler, Aline Bock, Chris ‘CK’ Kröll, Michi Stanschitz, Keiji Okamoto, Simon Pircher, Michael Schatz, Rob Matera, Roger Schuler, Roy Brönnimann, Patrick Cinca, Patrick Müller, Maria Kuzma

Locations: Austria, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Switzerland, New Zealand, Norway, USA

LG Snowboard FIS World Cup – Results HP Ruka

nelly — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 22:27:01 +0000

Lucile Lefevre (FRA) and Markus Malin (FIN) have celebrated their career’s first World Cup win in Ruka. At the season’s third halfpipe competition of the 2012 LG Snowboard FIS World Cup, Lefevre, the best ladies’ qualifier, not only secured the top spot with a score of 81.3 points but also took over the Halfpipe World Cup lead with 1,290 points. Facing temperatures around zero degrees, her team mate Emma Bernard (FRA, 80) finished as second while Ella Suitiala (FIN) rounded out the podium with 67.3 points as third.

On the men’s side, Markus Malin secured his first ever World Cup win with 94 points and thus also made his fellow country men proud as his top score of the day way also equivalent with the first ever Finnish home turf win in the World Cup history. Steve Krijbolder (NED, 88) came in second in Ruka, which had hosted two World Cup stops in 2001 and 2002 before. Aleksi Kumpulainen (FIN) earned the last spot on the podium bringing home a total score of 83.3.

The LG Snowboard FIS World Cup continues with the sole SBX Team event taking place in Telluride, CO, in just a few hours.

Key facts

First ever World Cup win for Lefevre and Malin
Career’s first podium results for Lefevre, Bernard, Suitiala, Krijbolder and Kumpulainen
First Finnish win on home turf
Malin jumps up to second position in the World Cup standings (1,150). His fellow country man Janne Korpi still sits in first (1,600).
First top-3 result for Lefevre and Kumpulainen in their second World Cup start
Ella Suitiala with a perfect World Cup debut as third
Very foggy for semi finals and finals, so judges had to move up to mid-pipe to do their job
Markus Malin is the only rider to throw Double Corks
Winning run Malin (Run 1): FS Air – BS 900 – FS 720 – Cab 720 – Alley-Oop BS Rodeo
Winning run Lefevre (Run 2): FS Lien Air – BS Air – FS 540 – Mute to Japan Air – FS 720

Quotes

Lucile Lefevre (FRA): This is only my second World Cup event. I’m super happy to have this result!

Markus Malin (FIN): I’ve been riding in the World Cup a long time and am really happy to have won, especially here in Finland

My first run was kind of a safety run, so I held back my double cork, since nobody else was throwing them. I asked my coach about the second run and he said ‘go for it’ so I threw a double cork.

Results

Final results women: http://www.fis-ski.com/pdf/2012/SB/7075/7075RLR0.pdf

Halfpipe World Cup standings ladies: http://www.fis-ski.com/pdf/2012/SB/7075/7075WCS.pdf

Final results men: http://www.fis-ski.com/pdf/2012/SB/7077/7077RLR0.pdf

Halfpipe World Cup standings men: http://www.fis-ski.com/pdf/2012/SB/7077/7077WCS.pdf

Links

FISSnowboard.com

FIS Event Videos

FIS World Cup Calendar

FISSnowboard Facebook

FISSnowboard Twitter