FWT23 Fieberbrunn – Massive moves and stunning stunts

Key highlights of the FWT23 Fieberbrunn

• A compact group of competitors pursue FWT glory after the cut
• Pristine snow and clear skies provide some of the season’s finest conditions for athletes
• Katie Anderson becomes the first Canadian snowboarder to clinch the world title in the women’s category. The other three categories remain fiercely contested

After an initial delay earlier this week, the FWT Finals commenced with a bang today in the Austrian Tyrol region. Competitors gave their all in the second-to-last event of the season. They battled it out on the iconic Wildseeloder mountain – known as one of the most demanding and complex locations on the tour – as the race for ranking points intensifies.

FWT23 Fieberbrunn – Snowboard Men

Jonathan Penfield (USA) maintained his steady season performance by executing a smooth line to secure the win. He launched into the approach of the Häusl cliff and followed with a high-speed cross-court transfer. Penfield then filled the lower section with flawless jumps and rode his way to triumph. Ludovic Guillot-Diat (FRA) preserved his gold bib with a uniquely imaginative line that earned him second place. In addition, Liam Rivera (MEX) completed the podium line-up.

“It was hard coming here in low snow, but we waited for the conditions to improve, which they did. The run was super fun. I was a little hesitant picking my line, but this morning it looked good to go, and I did all the drops I wanted to. I did plan to do more freestyle tricks, but the take-offs were not always there, so I was stoked to put down a good freeride line today.”

Jonathan Penfield

Snowboard Women

Katie Anderson (CAN) connected flawless powder turns into a close-out cliff. Finally, she concluded with a spotless lower section featuring several jumps, earning her the top position. This marks her third victory this season. It places her beyond the reach of other competitors and secures her first FWT world title. Local favourite Manuela Mandl (AUT) claimed second place but unfortunately announced her retirement from the FWT. Anna Orlova finished in third place.

“The snow was great, and this face is super cool, so it was great to have a good run. I ended up changing my line, and found myself in the white room a lot, so I couldn’t see all the take-offs, which was a little scary at times! It doesn’t feel real [to be world champion], but I am very excited – I could only dream of this.”

Katie Anderson

Fieberbrunn – Ski Women

Arianna Tricomi (ITA) reclaimed her familiar position, capturing first place in an FWT event. She showcased her remarkable freeride abilities at the top, confidently entering an exceptionally technical area with speed and assurance, and followed up with her signature 360 in the lower section. Justine Dufour-Lapointe (CAN) secured the overall rankings lead with a strong run, finishing in second place, while Megane Betend (FRA) claimed third place.

“I had a lot of fun with my run. In some parts, the snow was a bit crusty, and other sections were good, so I came out with a lot of speed at times. My goal was to do a 360, which I did, so I really enjoyed it. Being back on tour is magical for sure!”

Arianna Tricomi

Fieberbrunn – Ski Men

Andrew Pollard (USA) executed a seamless run from start to finish, initiating with a swift cross-court 360 above the Häusl cliff and following with a significant jump off the nose. He combined this with multiple features, including another 360 and several impressive jumps, to secure first place. Maxime Chabloz (SUI) performed a thrilling run filled with high-velocity stunts on the edge, earning him second place, while Oscar Mandin (FRA) finished in third place.

“It was a long week waiting for the conditions to be right, but we proved that the weather window works and that sometimes delaying the start is the best thing to do. I was happy to put down my run, which is always harder on a long venue like this. I didn’t think I could win anymore with all the young kids on tour, so I am just grateful to be here in Austria and stoked to win.”

Andrew Pollard

The inaugural event of the FWT Finals certainly lived up to expectations, as athletes selected bold lines and inventive features to captivate judges and audiences alike. Revisit today’s thrilling action at www.freerideworldtour.com.

The Yeti Xtreme Verbier is scheduled for March 25 to April 2, providing competitors with a final opportunity to accumulate points and vie for the world title.