Rad Dudes

Today was the first day of the Rip Curl Australian Freeride Pro and I must say that what I saw today was the most rad event I have seen in Thredbo. Congratulations to those who came up with the concept and design, the competitors, helpers, sponsors (of course) and the weather.

The day turned out a beautiful blue-sky day with just a hint of breeze. It was probably our hottest day in many weeks reaching –0.3C but the snow was fantastic everywhere except some steeper sun facing slopes that got rather gluey by mid morning.

The event was set on the Bluff and included some man made jumps a rail and some serious natural terrain. There were some radical lines taken by some competitors. The variety of features meant that that jumpers, railers and off piste freeriders could all exploit their strengths.

Unfortunately from where I was taking my photos, I was unable to hear Reggae name the competitors so I can’t give credit where credit is due. Also I was not able to attain my usual quality so instead, I have stitched the photos together to give you some idea of the action seen during the event.

The course ran from right to left - photo taken after event

Rail and Jump

Lots of air

Stringing those shots together

Taking a different line

Similar line – different gear

Daffys from the top

My pick - this sequence continues on the next two photos

Lining up for awesome air

Doing it without a parachute

Snow is now being forecast for Thursday into Friday.