LAAX, Switzerland, January 22, 2016 – On an absolutely stunning day, 12 men and 6 women  battled for Gold at the LAAX OPEN. The battles got crazy, making it difficult to predict who would win, but in the end it was Japan’s, Ayumu Hirano, and USA’s, Arielle Gold, who went away 2016 LAAX OPEN Halfpipe champs, $75.000 and $45,000 USD richer.

The 17-year-old Hirano is no stranger to the podium. He won the 2013 Burton European Open title in Laax at just 14 as well as an Olympic silver medal, but he was very happy to end up first here today in Laax. Switzerland natives and runner up Patrick Burgener and David Habluetzel, definitely made their home country proud.

“The riders always throw down in Laax because the pipe is so good,” said Habluetzel. “I was stoked to put together a good run and win third today.” 

For the ladies, it was Arielle Gold’s day, riding flawlessly and throwing down some technical tricks including Cab 900s. She took her first ever victory lap on her final run, since her second run score of 90.12 held to the end. Headjudge Sandy McDonald said: “This was the best woman halfpipe run in history!” “I am so happy,” said Gold. “Today couldn’t have gone better. Laax is one of my favorite places in the world. We got some pow like expected, and had a perfect sunny day for the finals.” Australia’s, Torah Bright, was also riding super well, finishing in second with a score of an 84.12. 20-year-old, Hiraru Oe, from Japan, was going big throwing massive method airs and Haakon flip. She also left smiling with her third run score of a 77.74. 

LAAX OPEN 2016, RESULTS, JAN 22, 2016:

Men’s Halfpipe Final (Top 6) 

Ayumu Hirano (JPN) 91.37
Patrick Burgener (SUI) 88.87
David Habluetzel (SUI) 88.62
Matt Ladley (USA) 87.75
Louie Vito (USA) 83.75
Brett Esser (USA) 75.74

Women’s Halfpipe Final 

Arielle Gold (USA) 90.12
Torah Bright (AUS) 84.12
Hikaru Oe (JPN) 77.74
Sophie Rodriguez (FRA) 71.62
Mirabelle Thovex (FRA) 71.12
Clemence Grimal (FRA) 67.62

photos by Chris Stadler and one Danny Davis pic by Marcel Lämmerhirt - Danny didn't made the cut and threw in this BS just for fun in between.