Jack Kolesch, grade 12 student at DTSS, recently competed in the Freeride Junior World Championships in Kappl, Austria. Congratulations Jack on your third place finish in Kappl!
Freeride skiing or snowboarding has athletes navigating steep, natural terrain. The skiers or snowboarders choose their own line down the terrain, which includes dropping off cliffs or other obstacles. Athletes who participate in freeride competitions earn a score from judges who assess how hard the chosen line was and how well they navigated the terrain.
The Freeride World Tour organizes events in mountain resorts and regions in Europe, North America, South America, and Oceania. The Freeride Junior Tour and Freeride Junior World Championships is a circuit that “is dedicated to young athletes of up to 18 years of age to develop the talents of tomorrow and encourage youth participation in the sport. Emphasis is also placed on injury prevention, safety, and understanding the mountain environment”.
Jack’s first freeride competition was in Lake Louise, where he first learned to ski, when he was about 7 of 8 years old. He has continued to compete and this year he finished an amazing 5th in Canada and 13th in North America. Jack was also nominated by his fellow athletes and coaches for the Flyin’ Ryan award recognizing his core values and sportsmanship. What a true honour to be recognized by your fellow athletes for strong values!
Jack plans to take a gap year or two and focus on skiing full time and see where it will take him. He has his eyes set on the 2023 or 2024 Free Ride World Tour.
Jack, the District wants to wish you continued good health, big bluebird skies, and powder for days. All the best in your future pursuits!!