The 2025-26 snowboard season kicked off with a thrilling display of talent and a historic moment for Japan. In a stunning performance, Ayumu Hirano, the Olympic champion, dominated the halfpipe event at the Secret Garden, setting the stage for an unforgettable season!
A Japanese Triumph:
Ayumu Hirano, the men's halfpipe champion at the Olympics, showcased his brilliance once again. With a remarkable score of 93.50 on December 12th, he led a remarkable Japanese takeover at the FIS Snowboard World Cup. This event marks the beginning of a crucial season, culminating in the highly anticipated Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026.
But it wasn't just Hirano's victory; it was a clean sweep for Japan. His fellow countryman, Yuto Totsuka, followed closely with a score of 90.25, securing the second spot. This one-two punch solidified Japan's dominance in the sport.
Breaking Records:
For Hirano, this win holds extra significance. It marks his 22nd podium finish, surpassing the legendary U.S.A. snowboarder Ross Powers in the FIS Snowboard Park & Pipe history books. A remarkable achievement for the two-time Olympian, leaving his mark on the sport.
And the Hirano family's success didn't end there. Ruka Hirano, the reigning World Cup Crystal Globe winner and a three-time consecutive champion, secured the third spot with a score of 89.00. Talk about a family affair!
Surprises and Teen Talent:
In a surprising turn, Australia's Scotty James, a four-time world champion and two-time Olympic medalist, faced challenges. He struggled to complete his tricks, resulting in an uncharacteristic 10th-place finish.
Meanwhile, the women's event witnessed a battle of young prodigies. Republic of Korea's Choi Gaon, just 17 years old, delivered a breathtaking performance in her final run, scoring 92.75. This secured her second World Cup victory, a remarkable feat at such a young age.
But the real surprise came from Japan's 16-year-old sensation, Rise Kudo. With a score of 90.25, she almost claimed the top spot, leading for most of the event. However, Choi's final performance snatched the victory, leaving Kudo in second place.
Experience Meets Youth:
On the other end of the spectrum, China's four-time Olympian, Xuetong Cai, showcased her experience. She secured third place with a score of 80.50, adding another World Cup top-three finish to her impressive resume.
This World Cup event is just the beginning. With six more halfpipe competitions to come in the 2025-26 Snowboard Park & Pipe World Cup season, the excitement is far from over. The stage is set for more records to be broken and new stars to emerge.
And here's a fun fact: the next World Cup halfpipe event is a freestyle skiing and snowboarding extravaganza in Copper Mountain, USA, from December 17th to 19th. Will we see another clean sweep, or will new contenders rise to challenge the current champions? The snow sports world is buzzing with anticipation!
