Johnstone eyes final in Cardrona opener

Nathan Johnstone has made a solid start to the 2010 World Cup snowboard halfpipe season, qualifying through to the semi-final stage in the opening event in Cardrona, New Zealand. Johnstone finished in fourth place in his heat, just missing a direct ticket into the final, but gaining a spot alongside the 12 riders who will battle for one of the six remaining places in tomorrow’s medal round.

Nathan Johnstone has made a solid start to the 2010 World Cup snowboard halfpipe season, qualifying through to the semi-final stage in the opening event in Cardrona, New Zealand.

Johnstone finished in fourth place in his heat, just missing a direct ticket into the final, but gaining a spot alongside the 12 riders who will battle for one of the six remaining places in tomorrow’s medal round.

The AIS/OWI 19-year-old scored 37.7 points for his best qualifying ride, just 1.1 points behind second heat winner Mason Aguirre of the USA.

Best score of the day came, predictably, from Torino Olympic champion Shaun White, his 44.4 effort nearly four points ahead of his nearest rival.

NSWIS rider Scott James finished in 25th position in his heat on 23.9 points, one place ahead of compatriot Ben Mates who scored 23 flat.

China’s defending World Cup champion Liu Jiayu was the best of the women in qualifying, earning 45.0 from the judges, five points clear of Torino silver medallist Gretchen Bleiler of the USA.

Johnstone eyes final in Cardrona opener

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