The 2025 TOYO TIRES FWT Hakuba Qualifier 4, held on January 27, 2025, was marked by intense competition among elite snow sport athletes from across the globe. Taking place at the picturesque Hakuba Happo-one Ski Resort in Nagano Prefecture, the event drew 59 participants, including athletes from 13 countries, showcasing some of the best talents in freeriding.
Originally scheduled for later dates, the competition was brought forward to respond to optimal weather conditions, allowing for the best visibility and snow quality. This timely adaptation ensured athletes could demonstrate their skills on the challenging 'Mix Long' course—designed with steep slopes and varied terrain, reaching heights of 1900 meters at the start and 1400 meters at the finish.
Among the notable competitors was Jesse Thurston from Canada, who clinched first place in the Ski Men category, scoring 85.00 points. The Snowboard Men category saw Igor Ilinykh of Russia take the victory with 81.00 points. On the female side, Lea Chapuis of France won the Ski Women category, scoring 89.00 points, and Hana Kinoshita from Japan topped the Snowboard Women category with 81.00 points. These top performers illustrated the fierce and high-caliber nature of the event.
The event was hosted by the Freeride World Tour (FWT) operations office and the general incorporated association, Hakuba Village Tourism Association. Reports indicated the competition was up to par with the highest-ranking international events, reflecting the growing popularity of freeride skiing and snowboarding not only within Japan but across the globe.
Aside from the fierce contests, the event was also significant as it served as a qualifier for the prestigious Freeride World Tour, which is renowned for being the premier international freeride series. Athletes participating at the qualifier not only aim for recognition but also earn points toward their ranking and eligibility for future high-stake platforms.
The competition's scheduling also provided significant strategic insights. Given the late January date, when snow conditions can be unpredictable, the event was shifted to guarantee favorable conditions. This flexibility allowed the organizers to select the safest day for the competition, which was met with approval by both participants and spectators alike.
The remarkable performances have been encapsulated and will be broadcasted; J SPORTS plans to air highlights on February 22, and FWT Japan will stream full highlights on March 1, ensuring fans worldwide can catch the thrill of the event.
With the conclusion of this exciting qualifier, attention now turns to the upcoming events across Japan. The next slated competition will be the 2025 TOYO TIRES FWT Yuzawa Nakazato Qualifier 2 taking place from February 1 to February 4, 2025, followed by the Arai Qualifier slated for late February, presenting fresh opportunities for competitors to earn their place on the world stage.
The Hakuba event not only contributed to the personal achievements of these elite athletes but also placed Japan prominently on the map for international snow sports, which has been gaining momentum, particularly with its reputation for exceptional powder snow and stunning natural backdrops.
Freeriding has seen increasing international acclaim, especially as Japan is frequently lauded for the quality of its powder, often referred to as 'Ja pow.' This recognition enhances its appeal to both seasoned competitors and recreational enthusiasts alike, promising continued growth for future events.
Overall, the 2025 TOYO TIRES FWT Hakuba Qualifier 4* has successfully set the stage for what promises to be another thrilling season of snowboard and ski competition, uniting diverse talent, fostering camaraderie, and celebrating the passion for freeriding.