Victor De Le Rue Dominates Kicking Horse, Reigniting Freeride World Tour Title Chase
Victor de Le Rue, a name synonymous with freeride prowess, has once again etched his name in the annals of the Freeride World Tour (FWT).The French legend, already a victor at the season-opening event in Baqueira Beret, Spain, claimed another coveted victory at the Kicking Horse Golden BC Pro in Canada. This triumph, coming after a disappointing eighth-place finish at the French leg in Val Thorens, propels De Le Rue to the top of the overall standings, setting the stage for a thrilling title chase.
The Kicking Horse Golden BC Pro, held on the notoriously challenging Ozone face, demanded technical mastery and fearless execution. De Le Rue delivered, showcasing his signature blend of fluidity and aggression, earning a commanding 88.67 points.His run, punctuated by a stylish backside 360, left the competition in awe, securing him a well-deserved victory over American holden Samuels (79.67 points) and Canadian Jonathan Penfield (74.67 points).
“The snow was tough today, but I’m super happy to have managed to put down a solid run,” De Le Rue said after his victory. “It wasn’t perfect, but it puts me in a good position for the rest of the season, allowing me to stay focused, have fun, and not stress too much.” [[1]]
De Le Rue’s victory wasn’t the only highlight for the French team. Snowboarder Anna Martinez secured a commendable second-place finish, trailing only Australian Michaela Davis-Meehan (81.33 points) but outperforming Canadian Erin Sauvé (72.67 points). [[2]]
The kicking Horse Golden BC Pro marked the third stop on the 2025 FWT calendar,showcasing the raw talent and unwavering dedication of the world’s best freeriders.The event, held in the heart of British Columbia’s Purcell mountains, provided a breathtaking backdrop for the athletes to push their limits and redefine the boundaries of freeride skiing and snowboarding. [[3]]
Understanding the Appeal of Freeride
Freeride, a discipline that blends skiing or snowboarding with mountaineering and backcountry exploration, has gained immense popularity in recent years. its allure lies in the freedom it offers, the untamed wilderness it explores, and the sheer thrill of conquering challenging terrain.For many, freeride is more than just a sport; it’s a way of life.it’s about pushing personal boundaries, connecting with nature, and experiencing the exhilaration of riding untouched powder.
The FWT: A Showcase of Freeride Excellence
The Freeride World Tour, established in 2008, serves as the pinnacle of competitive freeride. It brings together the world’s best athletes to compete in a series of events held in iconic freeride destinations across the globe.
The FWT’s rigorous judging criteria, which assess technical skill, fluidity, line choice, and overall impression, ensure that only the most talented and daring freeriders earn a spot on the podium.
Beyond the Competition: The impact of Freeride
Freeride’s influence extends beyond the realm of competition. It has played a significant role in promoting backcountry safety awareness, advocating for responsible mountain stewardship, and inspiring a new generation of adventurers.
Practical Takeaways for Aspiring Freeriders
while the FWT showcases the elite level of freeride, aspiring freeriders can find inspiration and practical guidance from the experiences of these athletes.
Prioritize Safety: Backcountry riding carries inherent risks. Always prioritize safety by carrying essential gear,checking avalanche forecasts,and riding with experienced partners.
Develop technical Skills: Mastering fundamental skiing or snowboarding skills is crucial for freeride success. Seek professional instruction and practice regularly to improve your technique.
Embrace the Challenge: Freeride is about pushing your limits and embracing the unknown. Be prepared to step outside your comfort zone and challenge yourself. Respect the Environment: Leave no trace and practice responsible backcountry ethics.
The Kicking Horse Golden BC Pro served as a reminder of the raw power and captivating beauty of freeride. Victor De Le Rue’s victory, coupled with the impressive performances of other athletes, solidified the FWT’s position as the premier platform for showcasing the world’s best freeriders. As the tour progresses, the competition will undoubtedly intensify, promising more thrilling moments and unforgettable performances.
Victor De Le Rue Reignites Freeride World Tour title Chase: An Interview
Time.news: Victor De Le Rue’s recent win at the Kicking Horse Golden BC Pro has thrown this year’s Freeride World tour wide open. What makes this victory especially important for De Le Rue and the FWT overall?
Freeride Expert: It’s a huge statement for de Le Rue, especially after a slightly disappointing performance in Val Thorens. This victory proves he’s back on top form and a major contender for the title once again. The Kicking Horse terrain is notoriously challenging,demanding technical skill and confidence,so a win there carries extra weight.
Time.news: The Kicking Horse event was particularly notable for its jaw-dropping backdrops.How important is location to the FWT’s appeal, both for athletes and spectators?
Freeride Expert: Location is absolutely crucial. The FWT chooses some of the most iconic freeride destinations across the globe, each offering unique challenges and stunning visuals. This visually breathtaking backdrop elevates freeride beyond just a sport. It showcases the beauty of the mountains and inspires a respect for the surroundings. For athletes, it’s a challenge and an honor to compete in such astounding locations.
Time.news: What sets the Freeride World Tour apart from other sports competitions? what makes it so compelling to watch?
Freeride Expert: Freeride is all about pushing the limits of what’s possible in the mountains. It’s raw, free-flowing, and unpredictable. Unlike many other sports, there’s an emphasis on creativity, style, and line choice.
Athletes aren’t just competing against each other; they’re competing with the mountain itself. This constant negotiation with the terrain makes for incredibly compelling viewing. Each run is a unique descent through an untouched wilderness, showcasing the athlete’s skill and courage.
Time.news: For aspiring freeriders, what are the most critically important things to know about this sport? What advice woudl you give them?
Freeride Expert: Freeride is about more than just hitting big slopes. It requires a deep respect for nature and a commitment to safety. Always prioritize safety by checking avalanche forecasts, carrying essential gear, and riding with experienced partners.
Don’t rush into backcountry riding; build your skills progressively. Master basic skiing or snowboarding techniques, take lessons from experienced guides, and practice in controlled environments before venturing into challenging terrain. remember to embrace the adventure, push your limits, and have fun!
Time.news: The FWT season is still young; what can we expect to see unfold in the coming events?
Freeride Expert:
This year’s FWT is shaping up to be incredibly close. We can expect to see intense competition from top athletes across the globe. As the season progresses, we’ll see athletes adapting to different terrains, showcasing their unique strengths, and pushing their boundaries even further. It’s sure to be a thrilling ride for both athletes and spectators alike.