Lausanne, Switzerland – The 2016 winter season is ramping up as athletes around the world begin to prepare for the Freeride World Qualifier (FWQ) and Freeride Junior Tour (FJT) by Dakine. Riders will battle it out on the FWQ and FJT against aspiring freeriders of all ranks in over 100 competition events all over the world.

With nearly 60 total FWQ competitions – over 40 competitions being held in Region 1 (Europe/Oceania) and 20 in Region 2 (Americas) – riders will have ample opportunity to participate in qualifier events. Riders from all over the world will compete in events ranked in importance from one to four stars with an accumulating point system. Additionally, in certain European countries, riders will have the privilege of earning the prestigious title of national champion. The top riders from each of the two regions and disciplines will earn a seat on the Freeride World Tour for the 2017 season.

Since 2011, the Freeride Junior Tour has served as a pivotal role in developing top riders and encouraging safe freeriding practices in mountain environments for young riders aged 14-17. FJT competitors will compete on an event ranking system of one to three stars, similar to the FWQ, allowing young riders to compete at affiliated three-star events such as Chamonix, Fieberbrunn, and Verbier on junior-specific venues. Both regions will host a combined total of nearly 75 events (20 FJT and 50 IFSA Juniors) during the 2016 season, allowing these young guns to develop their skills in a variety of competition venues throughout the season.

FWQ and FJT calendars are now up online at freerideworldtour.com. Registration for each event opens seven weeks before the competition date and remains open until four weeks before the competition date.