RED BULL SNOW THRILL: Monterosa, Italy

Argentine freerider Oscar Sosa wins 11th annual Red Bull Snowthrill in Monterosa, Italy

To win one of the year’s biggest freeride contests, competitors needed more than exceptional risk-affinity and ski ability; they needed unique style. Argentinia’s Oscar Sosa, who sat at seventh place at the end of Day 1, came from behind to place first among 15 of the world’s best freeriders and five select rookies.

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“My colleagues valued clean style over the risky tricks performed by some of the other riders,” said Sosa.

In the past, the event was judged by the competing athletes. During long evening sessions, riders would study and evaluate video footage taken of each run. This year, a separate judging panel chose the winners. Sosa, who took in 4,000 Euros, is the first South American to win the Red Bull Snowthrill.

The skiing conditions, as well as the level of riding, was outstanding. Sosa, with his 1,415 points, put quite some distance between himself and the competition. Andrew “Noddy” Gowans of New Zealand, who was in the lead after the first day, trailed by 134 points after Austrian Martin “McFly” Winkler. Local Italian rider Jacopo Bufacchi, who was a favorite to win, took fifth place. “I have to admit, I’d rather be standing on the podium,” he said.

FINAL RESULTS

1. Oscar Sosa (ARG) 1,415 points
2. Andrew “Noddy” Gowans (NZL) 1,281 points
3. Martin “McFly” Winkler (AUT) 1,230 points
4. Bast Blasy (AUT) 1,224 points
5. Jacopo Bufacchi (ITA) 1,195 points
6. Alois Bickel (AUT) 1,142 points
7. Sascha Schmid (SUI) 1,136 points
8. Robin Kaleta (CZE) 1,104 points
9. Jani Pogacar (SLO) 1,060 points
10. William Kocher (FRA) 1,038 points

Detailed results and further information at www.redbullsnowthrill.com