Words and Photos: Diane Harrigton
The athletes competing in The North Face Masters of Snowboarding in Kirkwood, CA on April 1, 2012 could not have had better snow conditions for the finals this past Sunday. With over 20 inches of reported snow, delays were inevitable. No worries though for the competitors or judges as everyone were out slaying powder all morning long.
Snowbird local Camila Brown laid down a sick run for which she won her first podium spot for the Masters-3rd place. Long time Snowbird/Alta rider Laura Dewey also made the podium earning 2nd place. Laura is sponsored by the Alta Snowboard Team, and they are very proud of her fantastic finish. In 1st place was Kirkwood local Casey Lucas who is a hell of a gal and rode one hell of a good line. Congrats to all the ladies on the podium!
Snowbird shredder Shannan Yates had incredible speed and precision coming out of the gate, a beautiful cliff drop, then on her next jump she took off high speed but then landed on the uphill of a massive wind drift. She was instantly swallowed by the deep snow leaving the crowd wondering “Where is Shannan?” Moments later Shannon appeared and completed her run finishing in 7th place.
The Cirque at Kirkwood is a tricky venue with many unique obstacles. Wind drifts, avi debris, runnels, and steep ice faces are just a few of the challenges the athletes have to maneuver through. This terrain is closed to the public year round.
The mens competition runs through the Cirque were hair raising, full of sick tricks, and there was sweet fresh landings for all. Charlie Hoch from Wolfcreek won the event. Matt Carter of lovely Snowbird, UT earned an 11th place finish with the fastest run of the day.
The North Face Masters of Snowboarding final stop is Snowbird April 12-15. Break out the PBR, BBQ grills and sunscreen!!!