TNF Masters Kirkwood: Registration & Freeride Day

The Cirque Kirkood Photo Hardaker

Kirkwood, CA – Once again 100 of the best freeriders in the world have come together to test their skills against the massive Cirque competition venue. The Cirque is permanently closed to skiing and riding expect for 2 competitions a year, the The North Face Masters and the Freeski World Tour. Because of this riders were not given an inspection run, however we had the chance to clearly see the entire venue from the bottom and can visually inspect our lines for the comp.

Ross Baker Photo Hardaker

So what are a bunch of riders to do on a day off? Blue sky and fresh powder meant it was time to go out and document some of the amazing freeriding that goes down before and after the competition. Our crew consisted of North Face team rider Ross Baker, local Kirkwood slayer Dave Trout, and a handful of other competitors joining us for laps around the mountain.

Kirkood Local Dave Trout Photo Hardaker

Even with all the fun we had, there is a certain sadness in the air as last week one of the skiers in the Freeski World Tour, Ryan Hawks passed away due to the impact from a 60+ foot backflip during his competition run. With all the snow the resort has received we need to make sure competitors are aware of the shark fins and rocks scattered around the venue. Our thoughts and prayers go to the Hawks family.