The hometown hero did the locals proud. Wanaka’s Jossi Wells capped off a banner day for Kiwi nationals, winning the halfpipe at the Volkl NZ Freeski Open. Fellow Wanaka local Janina Kuzma traded in her big-mountain planks and busted out her pipe skis to win the Women’s Halfpipe.
Cardrona Alpine Resort’s John Melville gets big props for the pristine condition of the 22-foot pipe. The walls were smooth and riders smoother.
“I was really happy to take it out. I didn’t have high expectations today as I haven’t skied much pipe this season,” said Wells. “I laid down a pretty good run and walked away with a win.”
American Taylor Seaton took second and Finland’s AJ Kemppainen rounded out the podium in third place.
“This is the fourth year I have competed here, but my first time on the podium,” said Seaton. “The comp was run for the riders, which is like it should be. I loved the good vibes, the reggae music and the overall running of the event.”
