Thrills & Spills at Big Air
27/09/09
The return of the Methven Big Air last night drew thousands of eager spectators, keen to see big air from top skiers and boarders on the huge 17m snow ramp and high octane action from Australasia’s big FMX names and they were certainly not disappointed.
The return of the Methven Big Air last night drew thousands of eager spectators, keen to see big air from top skiers and boarders on the huge 17m snow ramp and high octane action from Australasia’s big FMX names and they were certainly not disappointed.
Great weather and a stellar line up attracted an audience of over 5000 for the action packed night, including spectacular fireworks and fire dancing then finishing with a wicked after party featuring kiwi bands, Doppler, The Valves and ElemenoP.
For the first time in the history of the event, Freestyle MotoX (FMX) riders flew more than 75ft over the snow ramp to a dirt landing. The crowd were treated to holy grabs, rock solids, off the side heart attacks and even a no handed back flip by superstar Kane Saul from Australia. Mitch McHardy from Palmerston North gave everybody the biggest heart attack of the evening with his first attempt at a public back flip to a dirt down ramp. After landing badly, he was flown to Christchurch Hospital and although he sustained injuries, he is expected to make a full recovery and is already asking when he can ride again!
New Zealand’s top skiers and snowboarders also impressed in the with an array of tricks and their fair share of dramatic spills. Nick Brown from Queenstown took out the men’s snowboarding with a front side 900 narrowly beating Nick Hyne also from Queenstown who threw a switch backside 720. Hamish Martin was third with a clean backside 720 Japan. The ski competition was won by Kevin McClory from the USA pulling a switch cork 7. Hamish McDougall followed up in 2nd and Methven skier Joe Dole rewarded his many local supporters with 3rd place.
The entertainment continued into the night with The Rock After Party and more than 2000 party goers rocked to the beats of the bands headlined by top act ElemenoP.
Event organiser Karyn Heald was thrilled with the turnout and support shown for the return of the Big Air. “Strong support from sponsors, local businesses and the huge numbers of crew has been the key to getting the event off the ground again. Seeing so many people having such a great night makes all the hard work worthwhile” she said.
Hamish Martin heading down the snow ramp
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