REPORT

Today, the “SNOWBOARD MASTERS 5th GAME” event took place on the Yamabiko A Course (pictured, background)! On the way to the competition course, I skied from Yamabiko D to the Yamabiko C Course (pictured, foreground), where the firm groomed surface was composed of wet snow with a powdery feel. Some athletes were preparing two different boards to use for the two event categories: “Freeride Performance” and “Obstacle Slalom.”
[Yamabiko Slope・C Course]

The official practice session (pictured) started at 7:45 a.m., an hour before the first runs took place at 8:45 a.m. “This course is insanely fun!” was the comment from SAJ demonstrator Sugimoto-san. Even though it was just a practice session, the athletes showcased impressive tricks and smooth runs that were truly exciting to watch, on the level of a real competition.
[Yamabiko Slope・A Course]

This competition determines Japan’s top snowboarders, and features many top professionals who compete in other technical events and halfpipe competitions. The crowd often erupted in cheers, especially during the high-flying big air tricks in the final halfpipe section, which showcased the incredible skill of the athletes.
[Yamabiko Slope・A Course]

After finishing her first run in the “Freeride Performance” event, Ikumi Miyazaki, a member of the Nozawa Onsen Ski School and 3rd place finisher in the FS Women’s category at the 22nd Annual All Japan Snowboard Technical Championships, shared, “This course always sparks the imagination of snowboarders! The riders participating have diverse backgrounds, and their style and skill is an ongoing source of inspiration. I’m excited to enjoy the next two days!” Tomorrow, she is set to compete in the second run of the same event.
[Yamabiko Slope・A Course]

　
[Nozawa Onsen Details on 3/22 (Sat.)]
*All Courses are OPEN (KUROKURA, Gran Prix, CHALLENGE 39°deg Wall)
*Available Lifts … Nagasaka Gondola (8:30～), Hikage Gondola (8:30～) and totally 14 lifts
*Fees … 1-Day Pass Adult JPY7,300, Senior JPY5,900, Under 15 y/o JPY4,400
　
*Click here to purchase photos found in this report
　
reported by Snownavi