The Stash Gathering 2015
Burton European team riders to descend on Avoriaz's Stash
The Burton Stash Gathering returns on Wednesday with an amateur snowboard competition that is open to both male and female riders. The competition features a jam format, with groups of riders heading off with one or two judges following them down. The judges then decide who goes through to the next round until the finals. Prizes include Burton, Analog and Red products.
It's a chance for locals and seasonaires to show what they have learned throughout the season and how they compare to the other riders in town. Registration is from 9 AM to 10 AM at the Stash hut. There is also a free barbecue for all entrants. It should also be noted that helmets are mandatory for all competitors and all under 18's must have a parental waiver signed.
Members of the European Burton team will also be on hand, including Ludde Lejkner, Niels Schack, Jesse Augustinus, Clemens Millauer, Dominik Metzler and Seppl Ramsbacher.
It's an unusual format for a competition and offers something different from the usual snowboard competitions. Although it is on later this year than in previous years, the late season snow is in good condition and hopefully there will be some sun, so it is a good day out, whether you're spectating or competing.
The Stash has continued to grow over the last few years with new features always being added thanks to the continued hard work of Jean-Noel Calvert, who is responsible for the Avoriaz parks, and his team. In 2014 CNN ranked it as the best ski run in the world. It is a different kind of park to the normal parks found in ski resorts, offering all wooden features for riders to play around on and a great selection of different lines to take. It should allow for riders to show some real creativity at the competition.
Local film maker Stewart Monk will be on hand to film the action, his edit from last year's event can be seen in the video below.
