ContestHappening Inside | Freeride World Tour

At the Riders Meetings, all participants come together to give feedback and receive information. The riders are informed about various topics relating to the FWT. For example, long-term changes that may result from the merger with FIS are explained. The exact assessment criteria and point deductions for falls are also explained again to ensure a transparent assessment. The current snow conditions are also in focus, especially in light of the challenging conditions in Fieberbrunn this year. There was even a discussion about postponing the competition if the situation requires it.

It is clear to see that the FWT is not a large profit-driven company, but rather an association of a few dedicated people who enjoy what they do. And with the FWT, they organise a safe event for the riders that provides entertainment year after year and crowns the best freeriders in each category.

In the days before the contest, the riders come to the mountain for the face check and use binoculars to get their own impression of the slope and the conditions. It is the first step for them to choose their line from the many possibilities of the Wildseeloder. In some cases, they consult with each other and share ideas. Canadian Marcus Goguen, currently in second place in the ranking, explains it like this in an interview:
"I would say most of us are very open in sharing our lines and ideas. But at the end of the day, you usually keep your big tricks to yourself to surprise the others."

The evening before the contest, some people sit together and watch the live stream of the Natural Selection snowboard event in Canada, while others go to bed early to get ready for the next day.