Ohio’s first ski slope, Snow Trails, hosted their Big Air event on Saturday. The event consists of two jumps made of packed snow, one for novice skiers and snowboarders, and one for experts. Despite the slight differences in these jumps, the competitors expect “big air,” hence the name of this annual event.
Marketing manager Nate Wolleson said this marks the first year the event was held on the bottom of Mount Mansfield, giving spectators a front-row-seat experience.
“A lot of people like to come out, check it out and see some of these tricks these kids are throwing down,” said Wolleson. In years prior, Big Air was held on “The Woods,” making the event less viewable for spectators.
Participants must sign a waiver and agree to wear a helmet. The novice ramp launches skiers and snowboarders 35 feet into the air, and the expert ramp, 60 feet. There is not an age requirement for entry.
Big Air usually attracts 45-50 competitors each year. However, this year 23 competitors registered, a testament to this season’s frigid weather.
The cold weather did not keep Storm Schifer from competing in this year’s event. He has won the competition before. In a practice trial he tried a backside rodeo, which is a back flip with a 180 degree twist. He did not land it, but was not discouraged. “I’ll try it again in the competition,” said the 24-year-old snowboarder.
Jared Bradshaw broke his snowboard during practice after attempting to land a challenging trick. “I’m bummed that this happened because this year’s ramp is sweet,” he lamented.
The event started at 6 p.m. on Saturday night. Despite the seemingly low amount of competitors, however, spectators lined the fences and packed the lodge tight. A disk jockey announced the event, creating an atmosphere similar to X-Games. Also performing in the lodge was Acoustic Mayhem, a cover band based out of Columbus.
For more information on Big Air, or Snow Trails, visit their website or call their office at 419-774-9818.
