Parklife Invitational structure takes shape

A 27-metre long ramp is taking shape in Queenstown’s Earnslaw Park today (Thursday August 11) in preparation for Friday night’s ‘Parklife Invitational’ rail jam.

Around 40 cubic metres of snow will be brought into town tomorrow on six trucks to be dumped on the structure before Friday night’s event (Friday August 12) which will see more than 30 specially-invited freestyle skiers and riders perform in front of thousands of spectators.

The Parklife Invitational is an annual event showcasing some of the top freestylers in New Zealand and is this year being held as part of the opening ceremony of the New Zealand ‘100% Pure Winter Games’.

Remarkables Ski Area Manager Ross Lawrence said onlookers were “in for a treat” as athletes dug deep to pull out their best tricks on the night.

“Our invited skiers and boarders will climb to a height of eight metres at the top of the ramp before dropping down to impress the crowd with some cool moves on the features,” he said.

“There will be two rails on the ramp for them to choose from with a similar degree of difficulty.

“Every year we look to step it up and take the event to another level. This year we’ve got a lot more viewing area available with the repositioning of the ramp facing down Lake Wakatipu towards Walter Peak.”

Mr Lawrence said the calibre of contestants was excellent and the amount of returning athletes was indicative of how popular and highly regarded this event was.

“There are also more women taking part than in previous years,” he said. “It’s fantastic to see that growth in numbers – it’s definitely a goal to ensure the woman’s contingent continues to grow.

“The weather will be on our side as its forecast to be cool but calm, so we’re thrilled to be laying on a night of free and exciting entertainment for families, locals and visitors to town. It’s really one you don’t want to miss.”

The event starts at 5.30pm with the first riding from 6pm onwards. The official Winter Games opening ceremony, giving crowds the chance to see Winter Games athletes and the parade of international flags, will be held at 7.15pm, followed by the final rounds and prize giving.

Athletes will compete for prize money from a $5000 cash prize pool, and product from The Remarkables, Parklife, Red Bull, St Goliath, Thirtytwo, Skull Candy and etnies.