NORDEN, Calif. – Since its inception in 1940, the Silver Belt Classic at Sugar Bowl has been a magnet for Olympians, World Cup skiers, and thrill-seekers, offering a challenging terrain for extreme skiing competitions. In 2024, the event is set to revolutionize freeride skiing competitions with a unique, film-based format designed to showcase athletes’ creativity and skills.
Reinventing Freeride Competitions
The event, scheduled for March 29-31, will invite fifty athletes, including top ski professionals, wild cards, and local legends, to participate in an athlete-judged, film-based competition. Mike Jankowski, Sugar Bowl Resort’s executive director of sport, announced that the competition would include two parts: a freeride session utilizing the natural terrain of the Silver Belt Gully and an innovative concept called ShapeShifter, where athletes will transform the landscape into novel terrain features for the competition.
Celebrating Innovation and Progression
Bridget Legnavsky, Sugar Bowl Resort president and CEO, emphasized that the Silver Belt is more than a competition; it’s a celebration of innovation, skill, and progression in freeride skiing. The event aims to inspire athletes and spectators alike, continuing the legacy of the Silver Belt Classic by pushing the boundaries of what is possible in freeride skiing.
Joining the Celebration
Spectators are encouraged to attend the event to witness the action firsthand, enjoy live music, giveaways, demos, and more. Athletes looking to compete can apply for a ski-only Wild Card slot online. The 2024 Silver Belt is supported by sponsors including Arc’teryx, Atomic, GoPro, Oakley, Soundboks, and Yeti, ensuring a memorable experience for all involved.