2013 Jim Jack Cowboy Up Freeride Challenge

Another great Juniors Freeride competition was held this past weekend at Stevens Pass. Of course gotta start with a shout out to the organizers, the volunteers, the sponsors and of course Stevens (Patrol, Operations). You all did a great job putting on a cool event for the riders.

This event, a regional event for the International Freeskiers & Snowboarders Association (IFSA), had 50+ riders in two age groups: 12-14 and 15-18. And exciting in that it had a large number of riders in the 12-14 categories (ripping down sick shit) about 9 girls competing. There were quite a few areas represented too by Freeride Teams, including Crystal, Whistler, Stevens, Northstar, Mt. Hood and Alpental (Ski Shot 8 Freeride Team).

Venue was held on Cowboy Ridge, a short climb up from the top f the 7th Heaven chair. Picture attached. Starting gate was 3/4 of the way to the top of the ridge. First day the cliff at viewers right bottom was out, but second day they were in.

My son Graham competed (Shot 8 Freeride Team) and had a good weekend, coming in 5th overall. First day he chose a relatively conservative line and scored 9th. Second day he "felt" it more when the cliff was in bounds and was the 1st skier to the hit the cliff (he likes that, it inspires him) and skied it smoothly. That was a 2nd place run in the finals. Nice. Vid below, but it sucks, sorry.

A lot of really great skiing by a lot of the Athletes. Again it was really impressive to watch and really fun too. I do recommend taking a moment to watch the next time an event is held at your hill (Crystal next I believe).

Yet, all that being said, I was really touched this past weekend by the comments and expressions by a number of the organizers who knew Jim Jack personally. I did not, to which I am sorry to say. Based on the all wonderful comments about Jim, it was clear that Jim touched a lot of peoples lives in a very positive way. And with respect to Juniors Freeskiing, was huge supporter and did everything he could to promote the sport.

In light of the many conversations on the site regarding last years tragedy, it certainly seemed appropriate to highlight the namesake for this event, Jim Jack. From what was said, Jim embodied all the great attributes that we all love about the mountains and the freedom of skiing, and it was an honor to be a part of this event! RIP JJ!!

lots more here.....

www.facebook.com/pages/PNWIFSAJuniors/422389544486661

I wonder if Obama would let his kids do this comp?

I wonder if Obama would let his kids do this comp? 

HAHA. That is great!!!

Thanks for the link. I only heard about it from my son after I had made the post. There are a lot of great pictures on at the site as well as more info for those interested.

Looks like the next IFSA event is at Crystal on the 16th. Hope to see you there.