Gold for Wānaka’s Rocco Jamieson at FIS Australia New Zealand Cup Snowboard Slopestyle

The Remarkables Ski Area in New Zealand was buzzing with excitement as it hosted the first stop of the 2024 FIS Australia New Zealand Cup (ANC) snowboard slopestyle series. The event, held on August 17, witnessed a fierce competition among 95 athletes hailing from 11 different nations. Among the standout performers was 18-year-old Rocco Jamieson from Wanaka, who clinched the gold medal in the men’s snowboard slopestyle category. Jamieson’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, as he executed creative and stylish jumps and rail tricks that earned him a score of 88.67, securing a six-point lead over his closest competitor.

Rocco Jamieson’s victory was a moment of pride not just for him but also for his hometown of Wanaka. His winning run included a double sloth roll pullback, a trick that added a unique flair to his performance and set him apart from the other competitors. Wenlong Yang of China took the second spot on the podium, while Oliver Martin from the USA secured third place. The competition was intense, featuring Youth Olympic Games medalists and World Cup athletes, making Jamieson’s win even more impressive. He expressed his excitement and gratitude for winning in front of his home country, acknowledging the efforts of other riders who made the event a thrilling spectacle for the audience.

In the men’s freeski category, Wanaka’s Finley Melville Ives also made a mark by securing the silver medal. Ives impressed the judges with his double corked 1260 mute grab, a technically demanding trick that showcased his skills and determination. Kai Martin from Australia claimed the gold medal in this category with a technically sound run, while Ruka Ito from Japan rounded off the podium by taking the third spot. The event was a testament to the high level of talent and competition present in the ANC series, highlighting the potential of these young athletes to make a significant impact on the global stage.

The significance of the ANC series extends beyond just the medals and accolades. The points earned in these competitions count towards the overall series standings, with the winner from either New Zealand or Australia receiving a personal FIS World Cup start for the upcoming northern hemisphere season. This opportunity is invaluable for athletes aiming to compete in the 2026 Olympic Winter Games, providing them with a platform to gain experience and recognition in their sport. The ANC series serves as a crucial stepping stone for these athletes, helping them to hone their skills and prepare for higher-level competitions.

The next stop in the 2024 ANC series promises to be even more exciting, as it will be a premium level event as part of the 2024 Winter Games NZ program. Scheduled to take place at Cardrona Alpine Resort on August 26, the event will feature both snowboarders competing in the first ANC halfpipe event of the season and freeskiers taking on the slopestyle course. The anticipation is high, as athletes prepare to showcase their talents and vie for valuable points in the series standings. The competition is expected to be fierce, with top athletes from various countries participating and pushing the boundaries of what is possible in their respective sports.

The ANC events are more than just competitions; they are a celebration of winter sports and the spirit of athleticism. They provide a platform for young athletes to gain valuable experience, build their profiles, and earn recognition in the international arena. For many of these athletes, the ANC series represents a critical pathway to achieving their dreams of competing in the Olympic Winter Games. The high level of competition and the opportunity to earn a World Cup start make these events a significant milestone in their athletic careers.

Hosting high-level events like the ANC series also underscores the potential of New Zealand as a premier winter sports destination. The country’s stunning landscapes and world-class ski resorts provide the perfect backdrop for these competitions, attracting athletes and spectators from around the globe. The success of events like the ANC series helps to elevate New Zealand’s profile in the international winter sports community, showcasing its capabilities to host major sporting events and its commitment to supporting the development of young athletes.

As the ANC series progresses, all eyes will be on the athletes as they continue to push the limits of their abilities and strive for excellence. The upcoming event at Cardrona Alpine Resort is expected to deliver thrilling performances and memorable moments, further solidifying the ANC series’ reputation as a premier competition in the winter sports calendar. The athletes’ dedication, skill, and passion for their sport will undoubtedly shine through, inspiring future generations of snowboarders and freeskiers to pursue their dreams.

Rocco Jamieson’s victory at the Remarkables Ski Area is a testament to his hard work, talent, and determination. It serves as an inspiration to other young athletes, demonstrating that with dedication and perseverance, they too can achieve greatness in their sport. As the ANC series continues, Jamieson and his fellow competitors will have more opportunities to showcase their skills, earn valuable points, and move closer to their ultimate goal of competing in the Olympic Winter Games.

The impact of the ANC series extends beyond the individual athletes, contributing to the growth and development of winter sports in the region. By providing a platform for high-level competition, the series helps to raise the standard of the sport, encouraging athletes to continually improve and innovate. The exposure and recognition gained through these events also help to attract sponsorship and support, further fueling the growth of winter sports in New Zealand and Australia.

As the countdown to the next ANC event begins, the excitement and anticipation continue to build. The athletes are gearing up for another round of intense competition, ready to give their best and make their mark on the series. The ANC series not only provides a stage for showcasing talent but also fosters a sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship among the athletes. It brings together competitors from different countries, creating a vibrant and dynamic community of winter sports enthusiasts.

The journey of the ANC series is a thrilling one, filled with moments of triumph, challenges, and unforgettable performances. It is a journey that celebrates the spirit of competition, the pursuit of excellence, and the love for winter sports. As the series unfolds, it will continue to captivate audiences, inspire athletes, and contribute to the legacy of winter sports in New Zealand and Australia. The story of Rocco Jamieson’s victory at the Remarkables is just one chapter in this exciting narrative, with many more to come as the ANC series progresses.