Junior park & pipe riders throw down at Perisher

The Australian Junior Freeride Championships brought out Australia’s top young park and pipe riders to show their stuff at Perisher over the weekend.

The premier junior park and pipe freeski and snowboard event in Australia saw riders between the ages of six and 18 throw down some serious moves in slopestyle, rider cross and halfpipe events over the three days.

The field was dominated by a number of riders who had back to back wins in their division, including 13 year old Zahra Kell who won both the snowboard slopestyle and halfpipe rookie girls events.

“Super excited to finish off the Australian junior freeride champs with a win in the half pipe competition!!” Kell posted on Instagram. “Good job to all the other competitors, was such a sick comp!! Can't wait for next year.”

Competitors got to hit Perisher’s Playstation park with the new 50, 55 and 63 foot jumps in the slopestyle on Friday, and ride the only halfpipe in Australia for Sunday’s competition.

Other big winners were Valentino Guseli, Kai Rennie and Chelsee Kelley with multiple wins in their class.

“This event is a great opportunity for Australian kids to show off their talent. It’s the only junior event that uses a pro-level park and course, so those with outstanding ability can prove themselves and showcase how good they are at an elite level, which no other international systems do” said SSA park and pipe coordinator Richard Hegarty.

“It’s the only real opportunity after interschools to show where the young athletes rank against the best in the country and where they sit in the pathway within their age group.” He said.

See all results from the Australian Junior Freeride Championships

Alexandra Rouse
Ski & Snowboard Australia