Entering into unpredictable weather at the start of the weekend organisers at this years PJRJ were at odds as to how many people would brace the cold and compete. The turn out surpassed everyone’s expectations, with over two hundred in attendance it goes to show that the Volcom spirit is alive and well in NZ. Volcom Stone rekindled the free event at Snow Park NZ under fun, spring conditions and an awesome vibe.
“Snow Park grooming and park crew provided an awesome set up today. It was really fun for all ages and ability levels.” said Volcom Team Rider Will Jackways.
The course featured two terraces filled with pole jams, urban down rails, boxes and noise tubes. Perfect for any level. The 56 strong Open Men’s Division saw Austrian Marvin Salmina dominate in first, with locals Stef Zeestraten and Leroy Christensen not too far behind taking second and third respectively. Canadian Andrew Matthews secured fourth place. Marvin Salmina won three times over today. Credit Ananda Van Welij.
“It’s awesome to see an international field show at this time of the season,” said Jackways. “They were throwing down big, but locals stood up to the challenge.”
The Women’s was also taken out by an Austrian. Christine Szumovski won, with a 180 on, 180 off box, to backlip on down-flat-down box. Finnish Enni Rukajarvi took second, Snow Park Team Rider Stefi Luxton third and Charlotte Trundle of Wanaka in fourth.
Christine Szumovski (Photo Ananda Van Welij)
“It’s great to see so many girls enter today. Not only that, they stood up to the plate and rode really well,” said Jackways.
Joss McAlpin, of Australia won Junior Division, while Aussie Cameron Staveley won the Grommies Division of 15 and under.
Snow Park NZ is scheduled to close on October 2. The next competition to take place is the Snow Park Junior Rail Event, on September 23 at 6pm.
