Category: World Rookie Tour

4^th stage and great Zillertal VÄLLEY RÄLLEY final with crowning of the overall tour winners at Betterpark Hintertux – Hintertux Glacier – Tux-Finkenberg going down from May 3rd to 4th, 2025.

 

The great Zillertal VÄLLEY RÄLLEY tour finals hosted by Blue Tomato will go down at Hintertux Glacier in Tux-Finkenberg on the first weekend of May. And just in time for the kick-off into the probably best freestyle season of the year, Betterpark Hintertux opens its gates with a great new setup on the 26^th of April 2025. With its unique combination of international snowboard slopestyle competitions, freestyle coachings and side events, the VÄLLEY RÄLLEY has become one of the leading grassroots contest series for snowboarders from all over Europe. In addition to the winners of the 4^th tour stop, the overall tour winners will be crowned new ‘Kings and Queens of the Zillertal VÄLLEY’ in Hintertux. The Online registration for contest and coachings is now open until Thursday, 01 May 2025. Save your start spot and reach for the crown: https://valleyralley.at/

 

 

The infamous Betterpark Hintertux has woken from winter dormancy. With its popular XXL setup, the snowpark at the bottom of the ‘Olperer’ will ring in the spring season on April 26^th. The schedule of the 4^th and final Zillertal VÄLLEY RÄLLEY tour stop in the beginning of May includes a contest day and a training day, freestyle coachings and the popular Ästhetiker Style Session, where also non-contest-competitors can get involved.

 

On the contest day, snowboarders of all age groups will compete in their respective categories. Young talents will show off with their best freestyle tricks at the slopestyle contest on Betterpark´s medium line. As at all previous tour stops, the day’s winners will be awarded with plenty of medals, prize money and the last VÄLLEY RÄLLEY overall ranking points of the season. The best trick will be honoured with a special prize by Horsefeathers Clothing. Depending on the weather, the contest will take place on Saturday or Sunday. The organizers will announce the final schedule until Thursday before the event. During the contest, there might be restrictions on the medium line for non-participants.

 

With the last of four contest results, the VÄLLEY RÄLLEY overall tour winners will be set in Hintertux. The new Kings and Queens of the Zillertal VÄLLEY will be crowned the new ‘Zillertal VÄLLEY RÄLLEY royal family 2024/2025’ after the regular prize giving at Hintertux Glacier.

 

 

On top of all this, the contest participants will be collecting valuable points on the international World Snowboard Point List (WSPL). The tour stop counts as an ASA (Austrian Snowboard Association) Austria Cup and rookies (U18) will be credited extra points in the World Rookie Ranking. Don´t miss the last gathering of the Zillertal VÄLLEY Family in Hintertux and register now!

 

The partners of the 4th tour stop are:

Zillertal Tourism, the Zillertal Glacier Mountain Railway Company with Betterpark Hintertux, Tux-Finkenberg Tourism, Blue Tomato, Red Bull, Horsefeathers, the World Snowboard Federation (WSF), the Austrian Snowboard Federation (ASA) and World Rookie Tour (WRT) as well as Betterparks.at.

 

You haven´t saved your accommodation yet?

Then have a quick look at https://www.tux.at/ and https://www.zillertal.at/

All information about the age groups and registration can be found here:  https://valleyralley.at/

 

Photo-Credit: (c) Gustav Hersmann, Matt McHattie

Ursus Big Air: the end-of-season contest you don’t want to miss.

 

From April 18 to 21, riders from all over will gather in Trentino to enjoy long, sunny days, golden sunsets, and take part in the most exciting end-of-season event of the year.

If there’s a place to wrap up your winter in the best possible way, it’s Ursus Snowpark: a top-level park, shaped to perfection, nestled in the heart of the Trentino Dolomites, within the stunning ski area of Madonna di Campiglio. A destination that blends world-class riding with springtime vibes and unforgettable scenery.

This is where the Ursus Big Air will go down – a contest open to both snowboarders and freeskiers, and a key stop on the international calendar.

 

And this isn’t just any competition:

 

• Official FIS Big Air, valid for FIS points and the World Rookie Rank
• The first chance to qualify for the World Rookie Tour 2026 Finals, both snowboard and freeski
• Open to all – no FIS code required. You just need the skills to ride a Big Air jump (18 to 27 meters)

 

 

What makes Ursus Big Air truly unique is that it’s not just a contest – it’s part of the Ursus Spring Break, the ultimate spring season-ender for snow lovers… and not only. From April 18 to 21, you’ll enjoy four unforgettable days where snow action meets music, parties, and a laid-back mountain vibe.
It’s also the perfect time of year to take advantage of longer days and golden sunsets – with the sun setting late, there’s more time to ride, chill, and enjoy the view.

 

More about the event.

 

Photo-Credit: (c) World Rookie Tour

UP-AND COMING STARS SHINE: THE WORLD ROOKIE SNOWBOARD FINALS 2025 AT KITZSTEINHORN CELEBRATES ITS 20TH ANNIVERSARY – THE WORLD ROOKIE TOUR CHAMPIONS 2025 HAVE BEEN CROWNED

 

From March 23 to 28, 2025, Kitzsteinhorn was all about the snowboard youth. The 20th anniversary edition of the World Rookie Snowboard Finals gathered the best upcoming riders from 24 countries in Zell am See-Kaprun.

 

For 20 years, the World Rookie Tour has provided a springboard for the stars of tomorrow, helping them transition from amateur to professional athletes. Some of the world’s top riders celebrated their first successes on the World Rookie Tour, including Kokomo Murase (JPN), the newly crowned 2025 Big Air World Champion. Kokomo won the World Rookie Finals three times, from 2016 to 2018. At the 20th edition, 120 snowboarders between the ages of 10 and 18 came together and impressively demonstrated that the future of the sport is in good hands.

 

 

SLOPESTYLE – In the Rookie category (under 19), Yingxu Zhao impressed and brought the Slopestyle title home to China with a Cab 14 Doublegrab on the kicker and outstanding tricks on the rail. In second place was Dmytro Luchkin (UKR) with the best Big Air trick of the day, followed by Harry Dabrowski (SWE) in third. Head judge Spiken Jones said: “The top 5 Rookies really stood out, and a bright future lies ahead for them.” In the women’s category, New Zealand’s Ava Beer claimed the 2025 World Rookie Tour Slopestyle Champion title. In second place was Austria’s Livia Schatzer, and Italy’s Stella Accati secured third place. The Groms (under 15) demonstrated a high level of riding overall. Emine Grundvold-Mathisen (NOR) and Martin Lopez Rodrigues (ESP) became the champions in the Groms category.

 

 

HALFPIPE – A Day of celebration for the Swiss youth riders! The Swiss team clearly dominated the Halfpipe event with 8 out of 12 podium spots. In the Groms category, Leila Viererbe (GER) and Finn Ledergeber (SUI) finished on top. In the Rookie category, Lisa Demke (SUI) and Leonardo Saraiva (SUI) became the new World Rookie Halfpipe Champions 2025. Leonardo, in particular, made a lasting impression on the judges with back-to-back 7s, consistent riding, and high amplitude.

 

 

Despite challenging weather conditions, it was all about good vibes. Whether it was table tennis sessions or skateboarding, the side events were a colorful mix. From a cool tattoo workshop to an informative climate workshop by the World Snowboard Federation in cooperation with Protect Our Winters (POW) about how to take action, to an inspiring talk with snowboard veterans Max Plötzeneder (AUT) and Marc-Andre Tarte (CAN), who shared their experience and valuable tips with the kids, there was something for everyone.

 

This was the successful 20th edition. The World Rookie Tour Finals once again showed that it’s about much more than “just” the sport. Meinhard Trojer, WRT co-founder, summed up the week: “It’s not always just about performance and results, but also about passion and the sense of belonging to the snowboard family. Some of the friendships the kids made in the last few days will stay with them for many years. And we are truly proud of that.”

 

RESULTS WORLD ROOKIE SNOWBOARD FINALS 2025

SLOPESTYLE Grom Women

1. Emine Grundvold-Mathisen, NOR
2. Marie Kuhlmann, GER
3. Hana Joichi, JPN

SLOPESTYLE Rookie Women

1. Ava Beer, NZL
2. Livia Schatzer, AUT
3. Stella Accati, ITA

SLOPESTYLE Grom Men

1. Martin Lopez Rodriguez, ESP
2. Niilas Posio, FIN
3. Sora Horigome, JPN

SLOPESTYLE Rookie Men

1. Yingxu Zhao, CHN
2. Dmytro Luchkin, UKR
3. Harry Dabrowski, SWE

HALFPIPE Grom Women

1. Leila Viererbe, GER
2. Ella Ricjetson, FRA
3. Lyn Causevic, SUI

HALFPIPE Rookie Women

1. Lisa Demke, SUI
2. Lina Kälin, SUI

HALFPIPE Grom Men

1. Finn Ledergerber, SUI
2. Liun Kleger, SUI
3. Zeno Glück, GER

HALFPIPE Rookie Men

1. Leonardo Saraiva, SUI
2. Reef Matt Hasler, SUI
3. Emil Hope, SUI

 

Follow the World Rookie Tour Black Yeti!
Web: www.worldrookietour.com

 

Photo-Credits: (c) Ania Grzelka, Andreas Amplatz

2025 World Rookie Snowboard Finals. Who will be the next stars?

Kitzsteinhorn Zell am See−Kaprun, Austria, 23rd – 28th March 2025

 

After travelling all around the world in Europe, from North America to Japan seeing the most motivated riders battling to conquer a spot in the World Rookie Snowboard Finals in Kitzsteinhorn Zell am See-Kaprun, Austria, the Black Yeti is looking forward to seeing the next World Rookie Tour Champions.

 

Only the best young guns from the previous World Rookie Tour stops will join this legendary event. The event will assign the 2025 World Rookie Champions title for Snowboard Halfpipe and Slopestyle plus, tons of amazing prizes: Surprise Ticket to World Class Event 25, Absolute Park Spring Battle, Stubai Prime Park Session, Kitzsteinhorn Pipe Training Weeks − surf experience in Santander offered by SurftoLive.com, and many other prices offered by our sponsors Nitro, TSG, Blue−Tomato and Red Bull.

 

From the 23rd to the 28th of March riders from all over the world will gather in Austria for a unique sports and lifestyle event in a great international scenario. The program of 2025 World Rookie Finals will include a Slopestyle and Halfpipe contest and many lifestyle activities: social dinners, workshops with Gummi Love, the World Snowboard Federation and much more.

 

 

If you are a snowboard fan or if your dream is to start a professional carrier, then Kitzsteinhorn Zell am See− Kaprun, Austria, is the place to be!

Registration, info and bookings online under: https://worldrookietour.newcommerce.tirol/ till latest 20.03.2025.

 

 

Follow the World Rookie Tour online:

Web: www.worldrookietour.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/worldrookietour

Facebook fanpage: www.facebook.com/worldrookietour

Vimeo channel: vimeo.com/channels/worldrookietour

Mail: info@blackyeti.info

 

 

Photo-Credit: (c) Andreas Amplatz, WRT

Liveheats is the the official WSF Scoring partner for the season 2024/25.

 

For all WSF members, who use Liveheats for live scoring, please note that all WSF members receive a 20 % discount on top of the live event-credits discounts.

 

Important: Please take the time to read through the Liveheats FAQs. Here you find detailed answers to the most frequently asked questions.

 

Photo-Credit: (c) Liveheats

The World Rookie Snowboard Finals 2025 are just around the corner! This March, the world’s top snowboard rookies will compete at Kitzsteinhorn Zell am See-Kaprun. Do you have what it takes to join them?

 

Here’s your chance: the February qualifiers are where it all starts. Compete, score big, and if you land on the podium, you’ll earn direct access to the World Rookie Finals 2025!

 

Here’s the lineup of February qualifiers leading to the finals:

 

Finland Rookie Fest 2025 (February 1st-2nd, 2025, Vuokatti, Finland)

Join us at the iconic Vuokatti Snowpark, home to the Finnish Snowboard Academy since 2004, for an unforgettable experience. Snowboarderswill compete in slopestyle on February 1^st and big air on February 2^nd, with categories for Kids, Groms, Rookies, and Open riders. Beyond the competitions, enjoy trampoline and skate sessions at Vuokatti Super Park, WSF SafeShred clinics, WSF ZERO+ workshops, and a thrilling night rail jam on the slopes. 

More about the Finland Rookie Fest 2025.

 

Polish Rookie Fest 2025 (February 7th–9th, 2025, Białka Tatrzańska, Poland)

The inaugural Polish Rookie Fest at Kotelnica Białczańska Ski Resort offers young snowboarders the chance to compete in one of Poland’s premier snowparks. The event features categories for Groms (under 14) and Rookies (under 18), with snowboard competitions on February 8 and freeski competitions on February 9. Participants can also enjoy professional graffiti workshops, equipment testing, and creative activities inspired by local mountain folklore. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of Poland’s first World Rookie Tour event!

More about the Polish Rookie Fest 2025.

 

Winter Park Grom Fest 2025 (February 8th, 2025, Winter Park, Colorado, USA)

A premier event for young snowboarders. This competition offers a platform for emerging talents to showcase their skills and gain valuable experience in a supportive environment. Participants will have the opportunity to compete in various disciplines, with categories tailored for different age groups. The event promises a day of thrilling runs, camaraderie, and the chance to connect with fellow riders from across the region. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a vibrant community and take your first steps towards a promising future in snow sports.

More about the Winter Park Grom Fest 2025.

 

French Kiss Rookie Fest 2025 (February 11th–13th, 2025, Font Romeau, France)

Experience the 4th edition of the French Kiss Rookie Fest at Font Romeu, nestled in the Pyrenees Mountains. Renowned for its top-tier facilities, including the Sunny Park at 2,100 meters above sea level, this resort is a haven for freestyle snowboarders. The event features a slopestyle contest for Rookies (born 2007–2009) and Groms (born 2010 and later). Don’t miss this chance to ride at one of Europe’s finest snowparks!

More about the Frenck Kiss Rookie Fest 2025.

 

Ogau Rookie Fest 2025 (February 14th- 16th 2025, Oberammergau, Germany)

For the first time, Germany will host the Ogau Rookie Fest at Snowpark Oberammergau, uniting the World Rookie Tour and the Junior Freestyle Tour. Nestled in the Bavarian Alps, this welcoming snowpark offers an ideal playground for snowboarders of all levels, including Rookies, Groms, and Super Groms. Participants can look forward to thrilling competitions, an exciting Nitro Night Session with live music and free BBQ, as well as workshops and entertainment, including a movie premiere. 

More about the Ogau Rookie Fest 2025.

 

Hungarian Rookie Fest 2025 (February 21st–23th, 2025, Mátraszentistván, Hungary)

The Hungarian Rookie Fest returns to Skipark Mátraszentistván, Hungary’s most traditional snowboarding area. This event offers young snowboardersthe opportunity to showcase their skills in a supportive environment. The schedule includes registration, training sessions, and a main contest, culminating in a prize-giving ceremony. Further details will be provided as the event approaches. Stay tuned for updates and prepare to experience the vibrant snowboarding culture of Hungary.

More about the Hungarian Rookie Fest 2025.

 

Registration and information: www.worldrookietour.com, registration@worldrookietour.com

 

 

Photo-Credit: (c) World Rookie Tour

The Livigno World Rookie Fest 2025 (14. – 18.01.2025) has wrapped up spectacularly, marking a monumental 20th anniversary for this iconic event. Over the years, this festival has become a rite of passage for young snowboarders, and this edition proved why it remains one of the most celebrated stops on the World Rookie Tour.

 

A legendary milestone – As the oldest event on the World Rookie Tour, Livigno holds a special place in the hearts of riders and fans alike. This year, the festival attracted snowboarders from over 15 nations, showcasing the next generation of talent on an international stage. With its stunning alpine backdrop, state-of-the-art facilities, and perfectly sculpted terrain by the Mottolino Snowpark shapers, Livigno once again delivered a world-class competition.

 

Fierce competition and standout performances

The finals were nothing short of thrilling. Riders competed demonstrating impressive skill, creativity, and determination. From jaw-dropping spins and flips to smooth and stylish rail tricks, every run showcased the dedication of these young athletes.

 

 

Full results: download the complete ranking: women and men

 

Nitro Rail Jam at Snowpark Twenty

On Thursday, January 16th, riders and coaches enjoyed a fun evening together at Snowpark Twenty during the Nitro Rail Jam. The nighttime event was filled with energy and offered prizes, including cash and gear generously provided by Nitro.

 

A look back and ahead

Historical highlights were featured throughout the event to celebrate two decades of the Livigno World Rookie Fest 2025. From nostalgic displays of past champions to special video recaps, attendees could feel this prestigious competition’s deep roots and evolution. The legacy of Livigno is further cemented as it plays a key role in the official Milano-Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games program, underscoring its importance in the global snowboarding community.

This year, Norway won the team title. Their riders consistently delivered top-notch performances across all categories, showcasing incredible depth and talent.

 

What’s next?

The energy and excitement of Livigno World Rookie Fest 2025 set the tone for the upcoming stops on the World Rookie Tour. With each event, young snowboarders continue to raise the bar, inspired by the platform this legendary festival provides.

 

Follow the World Rookie Tour Black Yeti!
Web: www.worldrookietour.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/worldrookietour

Instagram: www.instagram.com/worldrookietour  @worldrookietour #worldrookietour
Vimeo: www.vimeo.com/channels/worldrookietour

 

Photo-Credits: (c) Ania Grzelka

It’s here: the 2025 World Rookie Tour is about to kick off, and the first stops are ready to deliver unforgettable moments on snow. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this amazing season: the registration for the 2025 Livigno World Rookie Fest is still open.

 

2025 Livigno World Rookie Fest

 

The 2025 Livigno World Rookie Fest (Jan. 11 – 18th, 2025), one of the most iconic events on our tour, is the perfect starting point for riders from all over the globe. Participating means competing on a course shaped by the expert team at Mottolino Snowpark and soaking in the unique atmosphere of Livigno, already gearing up for the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.

Don’t miss this chance to kick off 2025 in the best possible way!

Send the registration form to registration@worldrookietour.com

 

 

Groms Open Rookie Fest

 

The tour gets even better with the Groms Open Rookie Fest in Mayrhofen, Austria. Taking place from January 5th to 6th, 2025, this event is hosted at the iconic Penken Park, a dream destination for freestyle enthusiasts.

Whether you’re a rookie or a grom, this event is your chance to showcase your skills, meet riders from around the globe, and push your limits in one of Europe’s most spectacular snow parks.

✔ Dates: January 5–6, 2025

✔ Location: Penken Park, Mayrhofen, Austria

✔ Why join? High-energy competition, thrilling challenges, and a supportive community of freestyle athletes.

Register here.

 

 

Photo-Credits: (c) Mayrhofen, World Rookie Tour