Beijing’s iconic Shougang Park in the Shijingshan district is gearing up to host the FIS Snowboard and Freeski Big Air World Cup, an event that promises to be a spectacle of athleticism and skill. From November 30 to December 2, the venue, renowned for its big air ramp, will welcome 166 athletes from 24 countries and regions, all vying for top honors in this prestigious competition.
Leading the charge for China is Olympic big air champion Su Yiming, who will be competing in his first World Cup event since his victory at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics. He will be joined by fellow compatriot and rising star Yang Wenlong in the snowboarding category. The event will commence with qualifications for freeski and snowboard on November 30 and December 1, respectively, culminating in the finals for both categories on December 2.
The competition will also feature notable international athletes such as Birk Ruud of Norway, the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics gold medalist, and Tess Ledeux of France, the defending world freeski champion. These marquee names are set to elevate the level of competition and thrill spectators.
China’s own Liu Mengting, who gained recognition with her second-place finish in the women’s freeski slopestyle at the Swiss Freeski Tour in November 2021, is poised to compete at the event. Liu expressed her aspirations to achieve a podium finish, aiming to inspire more people to engage in ice and snow sports.
US snowboarder Troy Podmilsak, who impressed with a triple 2160 at the big air world championships in 2023, remarked on the favorable weather conditions expected for the Beijing event. After challenging conditions at a previous World Cup race, Podmilsak and other athletes are hopeful for better weather, which will enable them to showcase their best jumps and tricks.
Roby Moresi, the FIS director of competitive snowboarding, highlighted the significance of hosting the World Cup at the Big Air Shougang venue. The venue, a symbol of sustainability and legacy following its use in the 2022 Winter Olympics, is now a prominent fixture for World Cup events. Moresi praised the venue for its unique combination of technical excellence, design, and architecture.
Liu Yishan, a snowboarding athlete from Hebei Province with a background in gymnastics, spoke about overcoming the risks and challenges inherent in the sport. Emphasizing the importance of quality training and a fearless attitude, Liu expressed her confidence in competing at a high level.
In addition to the snowboarding and freeski competitions, Shougang Park will also host a variety of cultural activities. Visitors can enjoy music and fashion fairs, culinary delights, entertainment, and a ski equipment exhibition, adding to the overall festive atmosphere of the event. This blend of high-caliber sporting competition and cultural festivities makes the FIS Snowboard and Freeski Big Air World Cup at Shougang Park an event not to be missed.
READ MORE: