Superpipe at Crap Sogn Gion
Credit: Laemmerhirt

At the LAAX OPEN 2021, the imposing superpipe at Crap Sogn Gion was in focus today for the women’s and men’s semi-finals. After months, the top stars of the Halfpipe scene were at the ready for a contest and raring to go. Two-time LAAX OPEN winner Chloe Kim (USA) came out on top in the women’s field, while young Valentino Guseli from Australia surprised in the men’s.

Rider: Chloe Kim
Credit: Ruggli

Olympic champion Chloe Kim (USA) returned to competition for the first time after a season off and dominated the women’s field, clearly securing the semi-finals victory with a score of 94 out of 100 points in her first run. Last year’s winner Queralt Castellet proved herself still a force to be reckoned with in her 16th contest season with 3rd place. The pair are joined by three Japanese women - Mitsuki Ono, Sena Tomita and Haruna Matsumoto. Germany’s Leilani Ettel completed the field of 6 finalists in 5th place.  Find all results from LAAX OPEN Women’s Semi Final here and the live stream via this link.

Rider: Queralt Castellet
Credit: Ruggli

Among the men, 15-year-old Australian, Valentino Guseli, caused unexpected excitement. Taking part in his very first World Cup here in LAAX, he achieved the highest score in the first heat with 95 points, beating top favourites such as two-time LAAX winner Scotty James (AUS)! Even in the second heat, no rider came close to his score, and thus Guseli got to celebrate the day’s victory. Fellow favourite Yuto Totsuka (JAP) achieved the second-highest score of the day with 84.75 points and the best Swiss was David Hablützel. Find all results from LAAX OPEN Men’s Semi Final here and the live stream via this link.

Rider: David Habluetzel
Credit: Ruggli

The night final on Saturday, 23.01.2021 thus promises plenty of excitement and action. Snowboard fans can watch it live online or on TV from 17:45 onwards.
Watch the LAAX OPEN Halfpipe Semi Finals here

Source: LAAX OPEN, SRF