The thrills of the Winter Olympics go far beyond hockey and figure skating.
Brace yourself for an avalanche of adrenaline as we take a deep dive into one of the most exciting sports in the games: snowboarding. From its origins in extreme sports to its heart-pumping ride down the slopes of Pyeongchang, this is a sport that is constantly pushing the limits. So strap in and get ready to hit the snow! We’re all in for a journey you won’t forget as we explore the history, top events, best riders, and tips and tricks for making the most out of your spectating experiences or your ride down. Here’s the ultimate guide to snowboarding at the Winter Olympics.
History of Snowboarding in the Winter Olympics
When snowboarding first debuted at the Winter Olympics in Nagano, Japan in 1998, it was a divisive and controversial addition. Traditionalists snubbed their noses at what they saw as a novelty sport, but younger generations embraced the exciting and dynamic nature of snowboarding. The inaugural event featured men’s and women’s halfpipe and giant slalom events, with Ross Rebagliati of Canada taking home gold in the men’s giant slalom.
Over the years, snowboarding events at the Winter Olympics have continued to evolve and expand in number, from slopestyle to big air. With each new event, more and more talented snowboarders from all around the world have been given the opportunity to showcase their skills on the world stage. In the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea, snowboarding events accounted for a total of 10 medals, with the United States and Canada taking home the most medals in the sport.
Despite the initial resistance to including snowboarding in the Winter Olympics, the sport has become an essential part of the games, drawing in younger audiences and elevating the profile of extreme winter sports. The history of snowboarding in the Winter Olympics is a testament to the power of a sport to unite and inspire people across the globe.
Top Snowboarding Events at the Winter Olympics
If you’re a fan of snowboarding, the Winter Olympics is an event you don’t want to miss. From powdery mountains to perfectly groomed half-pipes, the snowboarding events at the Winter Olympics are some of the most thrilling and exciting competitions of the games. Here are some of the top snowboarding events you need to watch out for:
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Half-pipe: The half-pipe is a snowboarding event where athletes drop into a U-shaped ramp and perform tricks while flying back and forth between the sides of the pipe. Judges rate athletes based on the height of their jumps, the difficulty of their tricks, and their overall style.
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Slopestyle: The slopestyle event is a course consisting of rails, jumps, and other features where athletes perform tricks and jumps. Judges rate athletes based on their creativity, the difficulty of their tricks, and overall execution.
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Big air: In the big air event, athletes perform one large trick off a towering jump. Judges rate athletes based on the height of their jumps and the difficulty of their tricks.
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Boardercross: Boardercross is a race featuring multiple snowboarders racing down an obstacle course filled with jumps, banks, and other features. Riders race head-to-head, with the first one to cross the finish line moving on to the next round.
Whatever event you choose to watch, the snowboarding at the Winter Olympics is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. With some of the best athletes from around the world competing for gold, it’s a spectacle not to be missed.
Best Snowboarders to Watch Out For
The Winter Olympics always attracts the best snowboarders from around the world, all competing to be crowned the champion in their respective events. Here are some of the best snowboarders that you should keep an eye out for during the Winter Olympics:
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Chloe Kim: This 21-year-old American snowboarder is already a Winter Olympic gold medalist, having won the women’s halfpipe event in 2018. With her daring tricks and incredible talent on the slopes, she’s sure to put on a show.
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Shaun White: The “Flying Tomato” is a veteran of the Winter Olympics, having won gold medals in the men’s halfpipe event at both the 2006 and 2010 Games. Now 34 years old, White is still a force to be reckoned with and is sure to put on a show for fans.
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Jamie Anderson: Another American snowboarder, Anderson has already won Olympic gold in the women’s slopestyle event at both the 2014 and 2018 Winter Olympics. She’s known for her smooth style and consistent performances, making her a favorite to medal once again.
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Mark McMorris: This Canadian snowboarder has won Olympic bronze and silver medals in the men’s slopestyle event and is known for his technical prowess on the slopes. He’s sure to put on a display of flips, twists, and other gravity-defying stunts.
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Anna Gasser: Representing Austria, Gasser is a favorite in the women’s big air event thanks to her impressive array of tricks, including a double cork 1080. She won gold in the event at the 2018 Winter Olympics and will be looking to defend her title in 2022.
These snowboarders and more will be competing at the Winter Olympics, and it’s sure to be an unforgettable display of athleticism, skill, and sheer nerve. Make sure to tune in and watch these incredible athletes as they shred the competition.
Tips and Tricks for Spectators and Aspiring Snowboarders
If you’re planning on attending the Winter Olympics and you’re excited to check out some snowboarding action, then we’ve got some tips and tricks for you. First things first, make sure you dress warmly! It can get pretty cold out there, and you don’t want to freeze while you’re watching your favorite athletes compete.
Next, make sure you plan your day in advance. It can be easy to get caught up in the excitement and lose track of time, so it’s important to know what you want to see and when. Check the schedule in advance and figure out how you’re going to get from one event to another.
If you’re an aspiring snowboarder yourself, then watching the pros in action can be a great way to learn. Take note of their techniques and try to incorporate them into your own riding. But remember, it takes years of practice to become a pro, so be patient and keep at it.
And finally, don’t forget to have fun! The Winter Olympics only come around once every four years, so make the most of it. Cheer on your favorite athletes, meet new people, and enjoy the thrill of the competition. Whether you’re a hardcore fan or just along for the ride, the Winter Olympics is an experience you won’t forget.