2017 HALFPIPE RESULTS & REVIEW (SNB)

OLYMPIANS REIGN IN THE PIPE ON THE FINAL DAY OF THE BRITS 2017
British Snowboard & Freeski Championships, Laax, Switzerland

A well needed bluebird day appeared from any remaining clouds as competitors arrived at the top of Laax’s almighty superpipe - the biggest in the World. Stunning views and warm weather meant that it was a fine day for some stunt ditch action. Riders of all ages mixed it in the overall competition, as softening conditions meant that holding speed and staying upright were tough, with masters and under 12s represented on both podiums. But standing on the all important top step it was two legends of the UK pipe scene: Ben Kilner and Lesley McKenna.

Ben Kilner’s style and amplitude knew no bounds, and it was almost a foregone conclusion that the Olympian would retain his title. But he didn’t take it easy, instead he put on a masterclass that will surely inspire the next crop of pipe athletes in the junior categories. Kilner’s hits included a towering backside air, frontside 720, Haaken flip and a frontside 900, all thrown way above the coping of the 200m long pipe. A tiny figure stood beside Ben on the podium, as 10 year old Siddhartha Martin Ullah took an incredible silver medal. Huge amplitude for his age, and back to back 5s meant that it was a truly deserved second place for young Sid, and he is now firmly on the radar of many. Third place went to ex-pro and BRITS organiser Spencer Claridge. Claridge’s return to the pipe was bitter sweet. He laid down a beautiful melon air to fakie and scooped the bronze medal, but a crash in his 2nd run saw him in the local hospital getting x-rays.