SNOWBOARD HALFPIPE: It will be an Aussie invasion at Copper Mountain this weekend when a five-strong team hits the halfpipe for the first World Cup event of the season.

Nate Johnstone, Kent Callister, Emily Arthur and Holly Crawford will join World Champion Scotty James (read more on Scotty’ preparations here>>>) in Colorado as the push towards PyeongChang heats up.

All five athletes will be looking to put a strong showing to not only get the season off to a positive start but to also help them push for PyeongChang qualification.

“I’m very keen to get the season started,” said 2016 Youth Olympic silver medallist Arthur.

“It’s going to be crazy but I think it’s going to be an exciting season, especially for Australia.”

While the pre-season has been building towards this moment, the final few days of training have not been ideal.

“Preparation for this comp was very rushed. Usually we get a week out here, but Colorado has been battling for snow and we were only able to get two days.

 “Everyone is in the same boat though and I had a really good practice so I’m feeling good going into the event tomorrow.”

Despite the challenges though Arthur is confident the course will allow the athletes to put on a show.

“The pipe is amazing as usual at Copper, which is always nice going into events. We’re just hoping the weather holds off for us.”

Qualification kicks off on Thursday night (AEDT) with both the men’s and women’s finals to take place on early Sunday morning.

Matt Bartolo
olympics.com.au