FWT23 – Kicking Horse Golden BC Pro

The FWT23 Kicking Horse Golden BC Pro was an exceptional event with spectacular performances that will not be easily forgotten. The level of skill and talent displayed by the participants was impressive. It created a memorable experience for all those in attendance.

• A perfect day with plenty of snow welcomed the competition and the athletes. It was a real “bluebird powder day”.
• The Canadian spectators were ecstatic about the performance of their fellow countrymen. Justine Dufour-Lapointe, Marcus Goguen, Olivia McNeill, and Katie Anderson managed to maintain their lead by retaining the gold bib.
• The competition has now progressed to the next stage. The qualified riders move on to the European segment, effectively reducing the number of participants.

FWT23 – Kicking Horse Golden BC Pro, overview

On February 17, 2023, in Kicking Horse Golden BC, the world’s top freeride athletes had the opportunity to showcase their skills on a newly fallen layer of snow.

The local crowd was enthusiastic and made their presence known with thunderous applause, creating an electric atmosphere for the event. The competition took place on the Ozone Face, providing an ideal stage for the 2023 world title race to unfold. The competition was intense, with the world’s best freeriders vying for victory in this highly anticipated event.

Snowboard men

At first, the promising newcomer from Mexico, Liam Rivera (MEX), kicked off the event with an outstanding performance. That left his competitors with a tough act to follow.

As a result, he set a high standard by charging straight through the cold and deep snow, executing 360-degree spins in both directions, which earned him a well-deserved victory.

Then, Ludovic Guillot-Diat (FRA) managed to hold onto his top spot in the overall rankings by securing a second-place finish. Jonathan Penfield (USA) completed the podium in third place. The event was highly competitive, with athletes from various countries demonstrating their prowess in freeride skiing.

“I don’t think I quite believe it yet. I came here just wanting to make the cut, and now I have taken the win. I’m very happy!”

Liam Rivera

Ski men

Max Hitzig (GER) delivered an incredible performance. He executed what could be considered the largest backflip ever seen in the history of the FWT.

The backflip was so impressive that it has to be seen to be fully appreciated. A seamless flow and impressive speed marked Hitzig’s entire run. He linked a few aerial manoeuvres at the beginning of his run, leading up to his historic backflip, which clinched him the first-place finish. Local up-and-comer Marcus Goguen (CAN) surprised everyone with his electrifying run, propelling him up the rankings and earning him a spot in the FWT Finals, securing the second-place finish.

Valentin Rainer (AUT) continued his good form from Andorra, placing third in this highly competitive event. The quality of skiing on display was truly remarkable, with the athletes displaying their skill and daring to a captivated audience.

“I wasn’t sure if it [the backflip] was going to work. I saw Yu Sasaki send the pyramid cliff three years ago, which is why I went for it today. I’m so stoked!”

Max Hitzig

Ski women at FWT23 Kicking Horse Golden BC Pro

First, the most remarkable piece of the action. Megane Betend (FRA) produced a performance that will undoubtedly be remembered as a defining moment in her career.

Her impressive display of freeriding was marked by its speed and power. She maintained the pace throughout the entirety of her run. One of the highlights of her run was an unbelievable triple drop into the finish line. It sealed her victory and ensured she earned a chance at the world title.

In addition, Elisabeth Gerritzen (SUI) also put in a strong performance, executing her run with grace and fluidity, which earned her the second-place finish. Finally, Addison Rafford (USA) completed the podium with a solid run, which saw her take the lead in the overall rankings.

Overall, the competition was fierce, with each athlete delivering a performance that showcased their exceptional skill and talent in freeriding.

“I knew I would have to finish first or second to qualify for the finals, so I said to myself, ‘go big or go home!’ I am stoked that it worked.”

Megane Betend

Snowboard women

Michaela Davis-Meehan (AUS) delivered an impressive performance that saw her emerge as the event’s winner, even though it wasn’t enough to secure her a spot in the cut.

Despite the pressure, Michaela executed her run flawlessly, starting with two massive airs in the steep and exposed section of the course. She then maintained her speed as she transitioned into some fast and thrilling powder turns.

Concurrently, Estelle Rizzolio (FRA) and Anna Orlova (RUS) secured second and third place, respectively, by putting in solid runs that highlighted their skill and experience in freeriding.

To conclude, the competition was incredibly intense, with the athletes pushing the limits of their abilities to thrill the audience and make their mark in the freeriding world.

“It was amazing. The snow was so good. I had a backup run that I was going to do, but I blew that one off – I wanted the rockstar run, and I am glad I did it.”

Michaela Davis-Meehan