The University of Utah is bringing freestyle skiing and snowboarding to campus this Friday, November 6, with the return of its annual Rail Jam. Partnering with Woodward Park City, the university will transform its Student Union Lawn into an urban snow park for an evening of competition, professional demonstrations, live music, and plenty of freestyle action.
Running from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., the second annual Rail Jam will feature student competitors throwing down tricks on rails, boxes, and other freestyle features. The event follows the success of last year’s inaugural Rail Jam, which brought freestyle skiing and snowboarding culture directly to the university’s campus.
Student Competition and Professional Athletes
University of Utah students will have the opportunity to compete for podium finishes across four divisions, including women’s and men’s skiing and women’s and men’s snowboarding.
The student competition will also feature a professional exhibition and demonstration, giving spectators an opportunity to watch some established names in freestyle skiing and snowboarding showcase their skills.
This year’s professional lineup includes skiers Tom Wallisch and Taylor Lundquist, along with snowboarders Reid Smith and Katie Kennedy. Wallisch and Smith are both University of Utah alumni returning to campus for the festivities. Beyond the competition, professional athletes will share techniques and offer insight into freestyle progression, giving students and spectators a closer look at the sports.
Free Admission for University Students
The Rail Jam will feature more than just skiing and snowboarding. Organizers are planning a festival atmosphere with live entertainment from DJ Matty Mo and a vendor village featuring 25 companies and organizations alongside 10 student organizations. Woodward Park City, which offers year-round action sports programming and facilities, is presenting the event in partnership with the university.
Admission is free for University of Utah students, faculty, and staff. General public tickets cost $10 and can be purchased through the university’s official ticketing website. The event takes place Friday, November 6, from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. on the Student Union Lawn. Attendees should be aware that the university’s clear bag policy will be enforced.
These rail jams on college campuses are always fantastic events and a great way to bring the school together. I desperately wish my college had something like this every year, as it certainly would have been quite the party. More colleges should be doing this.