An international freeski and snowboarding event set to take place March 25 at Whitewater Ski Resort was cancelled at the last minute due to poor weather conditions.
The resort was supposed to host the first stop on the International Freeskiers and Snowboarders Association's (IFSA) Challenger competition. Over 80 athletes as well as four locals were to vie for a berth on the FIS Freeride World Tour.
But in a statement, IFSA said low visibility, snow conditions and warming weather forced organizers to scrap the event.
“The evolving conditions simply aren’t suitable for the level of competition and terrain this series deserves. While we’re gutted not to see these incredible athletes throw down, as the highest level of freeride competition in the Americas, the Challenger series represents the pinnacle of progression, skill and passion. We’re stoked that Whitewater has been a part of that journey.”
The cancellation came one day after an avalanche in the backcountry north of Kaslo killed three people and injured another. Avalanche Canada currently ranks the Kootenays high for avalanche danger.
