Kirkwood, CA – Christopher Galvin and Anne-Flore Marxer lead the field of 100 riders during day #1 of the North Face Masters of Snowboard at Kirkwood. Anne-Flore Marxer made the trip all the way from Avoriaz, France and all the ladies including the men have been very impressed with her fast charging riding style. In second going into the finals, defending champ Shannan Yates will be giving the women a run for their money.
Christopher Galvin/ Photo Ben Birk
For the men, Squaw Valley local Christopher Galvin had a dominating performance on the Cirque followed by Ralph Backstrom also riding out of Squaw. Of the 27 men to qualify, 7 of those call Squaw Valley home. Rounding out the men was Mikey Marohn qualifying in third place with a massive air over exposed rocks that no other riders went near. The kid is on a tear after winning the Young Gun award at the second stop of the tour in Crystal Mountain, WA.
Shannan Yates / Photo Ben Birk
Highlights from Day one included back to back 360's from Kirkwood local BJ Linne. A huge 360 and double stage air by Mammoth local Josh Warnick who is on a tear as of late. Adam DeVaragas came through the finish coral with a helmet full of snow after tons of face shots all the way down the venue, always smiling.
Laura Hadar Rides Better Then You! / Photo Ben Birk
During the riders meeting, "Frankie’s Favorites" listed almost half the field. At each stop the level of riding has been going through the roof. A run that would have made the finals last year, won't even qualify this year. At this point the judges are looking for a mix of freestyle, big mountain and just overall rad snowboarding.
The finals will be a one run event you can watch live right here.