Celebrating 25 years of thrills: The Neil Edgeworth Memorial Banked Slalom returns to Big White

As Big White Ski Resort gears up to host the 25th anniversary of the Neil Edgeworth Memorial Banked Slalom, excitement fills the air, promising an unforgettable weekend of snowboarding fellowship. Last year, the event saw a record-breaking number of riders, and this year aims to be no exception. With its storied history and deep-rooted community spirit, the Neil Edgeworth Memorial Banked Slalom is not just a competition but a gathering of the snowboarding community from all walks of life.

The legacy lives on

Named in honour of local snowboarding legend Neil Edgeworth, who tragically lost his life in an avalanche in France, this event has grown from a passionate tribute into an iconic event. It serves as a living memory to Neil and of the pioneering spirit of all snowboarders who have left their mark.

Flynn Seddon, Director of Terrain Parks and Outdoor Events at Big White, explains the spirit of the event, "We don’t call it a competition. We refer to it as a gathering, and the amount of people who are coming each year is growing. It is truly an industry event for people to get involved in and just have a good time remembering friends, hanging out and meeting new people." This sentiment echoes the foundation on which the event was built: community, support, and friendship.

A festive kick-off

The event promises to be spectacular this year, with activities and races planned throughout the weekend at TELUS Park. The festivities kick off with a Check-in Party at Happy Valley on Friday, March 29, from 7:00PM to 10:00PM. Competitors can enjoy a Banquet Dinner on Saturday at 6:00PM, and the awards ceremony is set for 4:00PM on Sunday.

What's included with registration

You can look forward to an array of benefits this year, including two runs (one on Saturday and one on Sunday), a contest T-shirt, a Banquet Dinner on Saturday, 50% off lift tickets for both days and awards for the top three in each category. The Pro Division competitors also have a chance to win a share of the $5,000 prize money. With categories ranging from Pro Division to Amateur and Para Division, the event is inclusive, encouraging snowboarders of all ages and abilities to join in the fun.

Schedule and accommodations

The weekend is packed with activities, starting with pick-up for race packets at Happy Valley Day Lodge on Friday and culminating in the awards ceremony on Sunday afternoon. If you need accommodations during the event Big White Ski Resort is offering discounted rates through Central Reservations.

A community like no other

The Neil Edgeworth Memorial Banked Slalom is more than just an event; it's a testament to the enduring spirit of the snowboarding community. As Tess Critchlow, an Olympic Snowboard Cross racer and five-time Canadian National Champion, who has participated in the event since she was six, puts it, "This event is all about community and being able to celebrate with my family like that really brought that feeling home." Her story is a powerful reminder of the event's impact on individual lives and careers.

Join the celebration

As we celebrate 25 years of the Neil Edgeworth Memorial Banked Slalom, we invite snowboarders and their families, from seasoned pros to aspiring athletes, to join us at Big White for a weekend filled with action, friendship, and memories. With registration closing on March 27, 2024, make sure to secure your spot for what promises to be the best weekend for snowboarders at Big White.

Register now - visit the Big White website.

This year's Neil Edgeworth Memorial Banked Slalom will be a celebration to remember!