Day Three of the K2 Big Mountain CHILL Series

Day three of the K2 Big Mountain CHILL Series wrapped up this afternoon and it was another banger. Clear skies provided excellent visibility for competitors and a new venue provided the perfect viewing spot from Whakamaru Day Lodge. The Venue was the 'Castles', located just outside the ski area boundary en route to North Peak. There were now shortage of gnarly lines including the renowned 'Plake's Mistake', a long tight chute that introduced Glen Plake to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter and the New Zealand healthcare system a while back.  

Today, the competitors had the choice of sunny or shady aspects and the snowboarders sought the shade whilst the majority of the skiers opted for the sun. Once again the level of competition was ludicrous, flat spins, 360's and methods to end all methods. Check out the photos from some of the video footage today and keep your eyes pealed to chillout.co.nz for the official edits dropping soon.

Today's results.

Female Snowboard: 1st Sophie Brown

Female Ski: 1st Hanna Fisher

Mens Snowboard: 1st Ruari MacFarlane

Mens Ski: 1st Alex Lyndon

Sophie Brown narrowly edged out Tess Carney today. Sophie rode fast and fluid and sent it off a drop at the bottom of the course. Tess opted for a more technical line but crashed on a small 180 at the end of her run. Hanna Fisher was pushed by Nat Segal but another solid performance saw her take the day's honours again. All the male snowboarders stepped it up and made the most of the great snow conditions. Scotty Heale, Colin Boyd and Jordan Decker were all in contention for the win until Ruari MacFarlane threw down a run that needs to be seen to be believed. Look out for it  in the official edit. Despite an awesome and creative run, Cam McDermid was edged out by Alex Lyndon in the men's ski division. Alex rode the ridge when everyone else opted for from different lines. The ridge was littered with drops and Alex sent them one after another for the win.  

Tomorrow is the final day of competition and is followed by prize giving at Craigieburn Valley. The good weather we've been having is set to conclude tomorrow so a decision on competition will be made at 6am. Fingers crossed there's a small window as there's a few people in the running for the overall title and with one last shot they'll be throwing everything they've got for the cash, FWQ points and the glory.