The eighth edition of the Innsbruck Rookie Fest was ready to open a new chapter. For the first time, Snowboard Slopestyle was officially added to the program alongside Freeski, marking an important step forward for one of the most iconic stops on the tour. But the mountains had a different plan.
Just days before the competitions, winter returned to Tyrol with heavy snowfall and increased avalanche risk. While the fresh snow created a true alpine atmosphere, it also forced the organising team to rethink the schedule. The Nordkette Skyline Park crew worked non-stop to manage the massive snowfall and prepare the setup, but despite their efforts, the planned slopestyle competitions had to be cancelled due to safety reasons.
For the many registered snowboarders and freeskiers born in 2008 or later, it was a lesson in patience and adaptability: two qualities every rider needs in the mountains.
The weekend still delivered a major highlight with the Snowboard Women’s Big Air contest, organised as an alternative competition. Under challenging weather conditions, the riders stepped up and showcased determination, style and technical skills on the jump.
Fifteen-year-old Italian rider Nicole Bazzanella claimed victory with a solid and confident performance. Sweden’s Bianca Linnes secured second place, while Hungary’s Janka Gaspar completed the international podium in third. Thanks to these results, all three riders earned their qualification for the prestigious World Rookie Tour Snowboard Finals, taking a decisive step toward the top level of youth freestyle competition.
As part of the globally recognised World Rookie Tour, the Innsbruck Rookie Fest continues to offer young athletes a platform to grow, compete and move closer to professional sport. Even with weather challenges reshaping the program, the event once again proved that the next generation of freestyle riders is ready for the future.
Results – Snowboard Big Air Women
1st place Nicole Bazzanella (ITA)
2nd place Bianca Linnes (SWE)
3rd place Janka Gaspar (HUN)
All the pictures at the following LINK
