A field of fifty riders took to the slopes today to compete in the Galliano NZ Snowboard Masters at Cardrona Alpine Resort. Commonly known as 'greyboarders', this is the fourth year that Cardrona has hosted and organised the NZ Snowboard Masters.
The day comprises three events. A dual slalom in the morning, boardercross in the afternoon and a dinner and awards ceremony at the historic Cardrona Hotelin the valley below. "All competitors must be aged 30 years or older on the day of the event and are split into several age groups and handicapped accordingly" according to organiser Nigel Kerr.
In the women's slalom Jean Clairmonte of Wanaka was a narrow winner from Michelle Freeman of Queenstown. Debbie Merrilees of Queenstown took out the over 40 ladies. In the boardercross it was Michelle who stormed to the front with Debbie close behind. Overall results saw Michelle in front with Debbie and Jean tied for second place.
The men's field is divided into 'juniors', 30-39 years and 'seniors', 40 years plus. In the junior section Ste'en Webster cleaned up both slalom and boardercross to walk away a very happy winner. Willem Groemen, also of Wanaka, was in second place. Defending champion Martin White of Queenstown was pushed into third place.
In the seniors Graeme Burgess of Invercargill was a clear winner. In fact on handicap he beat all of the juniors in the slalom. There is a wide range of ages in the seniors. From Cardrona Operation's Manager Shaun Gilbertson at 41 through to Mineo Sudo of Japan who at 63 years of age is the oldest competitor in the event. In second place was event foundation member Dennis Deavol of Queenstown.
Prizes from Galliano, Scott, Adventure Outfitters and Mo Dean clothing shop rounded out the awards dinner. "This years masters was certainly the largest yet" said organiser Nigel Kerr. "We had a great break with the snow and weather and the atmosphere was brilliant all day. Certainly it was helped along by the efforts of the Galliano team at the start of both courses distributing refreshments. "
OVERALL RESULTS
WOMEN
1 Michelle Freeman, Queenstown
2 Jean Clairmonte, Wanaka
3 Debbie Merrliees, Queenstown
MEN 30-39 years
1 Ste'en Webster, Auckland
2 Willem Groenen, Wanaka
3 Martin White, Queenstown
MEN 40 years plus
1 Graeme Burgess, Invercargill
2 Dennis Deavoll, Queenstown
3 Glenn Wills, Whangamata