SKIERS CUP. Grandvalira, Andorra – February 1, 2016 – Riders from the Old Continent and the New World have assembled to represent the best of the best in ski talent for the most anticipated and innovative event in the sport. The beautifully featured terrain of the Andorran resort of Grandvalira hosted the 2016 edition of event this year for the first time.

© skierscup.com / JEREMY BERNARD

After a defeat (9-7) on the first day of big mountain competition by Loïc Collomb-Patton’s Europe, Sage Cattabriga-Alosa’s Team Americas had to step up to regain the lead in the two-day event. As athletes were pitted-off in one-on-one matchups during two heats to earn as many possible points for their respective continents, Team Americas once again fell short by 10-6 points and allowed the overall Skiers Cup title to be given to Team Europe.

© skierscup.com / DOM DAHER

After several days of shaping massive backcountry kickers, skiers got a chance to express their skills on in the backcountry slopestyle event where riders will throw down their biggest and best tricks on these specially crafted jumps. The 16 riders faced each other in twice in 16 matchups.

HEAT ONE Highlights

With some residual cloud cover and biting wind, there was some doubt among the riders and they warmed up quite cautiously at the alpine venue. Team captain Cattabriga-Alosa (USA) displayed smoothness with his trademark style featuring big 360s and a flatspin. Seth Morrison (USA) and Sam Anthamatten (SUI) had a backflip-off to see who could throw the most impressive jumps with the seasoned Morrison taking the lead. Parker White (USA) really stepped up his game with a 900 tail grab, however was unable to beat Sam Favret’s (FRA) Bio 7. Tanner Rainville (USA) outshined Mathieu Bijasson (FRA) with the first switch air of the day by sending a huge 540 mute over the step down.

HEAT TWO Highlights

Team Americas’ hopes of a comeback were quickly erased after several crashes in heat two as Europe stepped up their game again, lead by Sam Athametten (SUI) – the man who dominated day one’s big mountain – who had a spectacular run with a big cork 7 followed by two 360s and stylish flair off the step down feature. Bene Mayr (GER) also impressed judges with a big cork 7 and switch 540 which bested Grant Howard (USA). Marcus Eder (AUT) upped the game with a huge cork 9 blunt. Though Americas’ Tim Durtschi (USA) Tanner Rainville (USA) held their own with a big cork 7 mute and switch 7, respectively, they were unable to bring their continent back into the game.

Despite the fierce competition, the vibes and comradery were strong as many of these world-class athletes are best friends and riding partners despite their country of origin. The legendary showdown was topped off by an amicable barbeque at the alpine venue, sealing the deal for Europe but also pushing the progression of the sport to the next level.

© skierscup.com / DOM DAHER

Today revealed also the two future captains for next year's Skiers Cup: Tanner Rainville will lead the Americas and Richard Permin will be the captain of the european team.

To get a better glimpse of the action, check out youtube or dailymotion and catch the detailed scoring and recaps of the most innovative event in freeskiing on www.skierscup.com.

Press Release
FWT Management
February 1, 2016

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