Photo: FWT
Freeride World Tour 2022 continued the blazing pace set by last week’s event in Baqueira-Beret (Catalonia), with stop #2 in Ordino Arcalís, Andorra.
The competition ended with new riders standing atop all four podiums, which means the race for the world title remains wide open.
Sunday’s event took place on a never-before-used venue, Pic De Les Planes, showcasing the extensive terrain available around Ordino Arcalís.
A young rider from Andorra, Joan Arasil, had an accident. He miscalculated in a jump, crashed into one of the rocks and lost consciousness for a few moments. The FWT emergency service quickly came to him and he was able to regain consciousness before being evacuated to the Nostra Senyora de Meritxell hospital.
Due to an accident, the competition had to be stopped for about an hour.
FWT rookie Maxime Chabloz (SUI) took the victory with a run featuring fast skiing, a massive gap jump, a huge backflip and yet another big 360. Rounding out the podium were two American skiers, Ross Tester (USA) and Andrew Pollard (USA).
Ski Women followed in a similarly dramatic mix of crashes and triumphs. Making her triumphant return to the top of the podium was Jess Hotter (NZL). Hotter linked several large airs with flawless skiing to take the event win.
Coming back from a tough crash in Spain last week, 2021 World Champion Elisabeth Gerritzen (SUI) placed 2nd, while 3rd place went to tour rookie Lily Bradley (USA).
In Snowboard Men, Blake Moller (USA) took the win with a well-rounded run featuring stylish grabs, spins and a massive backflip to finish. Defending world champion Victor De Le Rue (FRA) took 2nd, with Camille Armand (FRA)in 3rd.
Wrapping up the day was Snowboard Women. Despite the most challenging conditions of the day, the women still put down impressive runs, with yet another tour rookie taking the top spot. Tiphanie Perrotin’s (FRA) winning run showcased her well-rounded abilities and was capped by a huge final air. 2018 world champion Manuela Mandl (AUT) placed 2nd, who was closely followed by Erika Vikander (USA) in 3rd.
See also Andorra ski resorts
See also Pyrenean ski resorts
See also Andorra travel guide
See also Pyrenees travel guide
