Ben Richards (Wānaka, 24) has kicked off his 2025 Freeride World Tour with a bang, finishing in third place at the Baqueira Beret Pro held in Spain overnight.
Richards, who was named Rookie of the Year on the 2024 Freeride World Tour, carried his momentum from 2024 into the first event of 2025, putting down a trademark fast and fluid run that oozed style.
Due to variable snow conditions, event organisers made the decision to move today’s competition to the La Bamba face, located in backcountry in the Baqueira Beret valley. This was the first time the Freeride World Tour has used this venue for competition, making for an exciting event with the athletes relying on a visual inspection only to select their lines.
Richards explained; “I am stoked, honestly with these conditions I am happy to make it through the finish line on my feet. My run went better than I anticipated, the snow is petty spicy but still rippable, and we ski conditions like this all the time at home, so I just tried to stay positive.”
Richards put down a fast, direct line with his skis remaining in the fall line to score exceptionally high in the fluidity category of the judging. This combined with plenty of airtime and a two huge 360’s thrown off the features impressed the judges, with his run scoring a 89.00 which held in podium position throughout the remainder of the competition.
Ross Tester of the USA took the win today, with his compatriot Toby Rafford finishing in second place. The American athletes both put down impressive runs and were the only athletes to score in the 90’s.
Kiwi Conrad Niven started in his debut Freeride World Tour event, competing in the men’s snowboard category. Unfortunately, Niven was unable to stay on his feel and is looking forward to the next event.
The Freeride World Tour continues in just over a week’s time with its maiden event in Val Thorens, France. The weather window for competition starts on the 27th of January.
18 hours ago