13-year-old Seamus O'Connor of Ireland takes the Open Mens Snowboard Category at Saturday's Electric Quarter Pipe Battle 2011, held at Snow Park NZ. (photo: Fabrice Wittner)

New Zealand’s Electric Quarter Pipe Battle a Success Under Sunshine

Lake Wanaka, New Zealand – Snowboarders and freeskiers converged on Snow Park NZ Saturday for the return of the Electric Quarter Pipe Battle.

The “jam” style format allowed both skiers and snowboarders to display style and amplitude in a fun and relaxed atmosphere on the only Quarter Pipe to feature permanently in a New Zealand ski resort. The competition was open to both freeskiers and snowboarders of all ages and skill levels. Riders were judged on style, amplitude and consistency.

13-year-old Seamus O'Connor of Ireland takes the Open Mens Snowboard Category at Saturday's Electric Quarter Pipe Battle 2011, held at Snow Park NZ. (photo: Fabrice Wittner)
13-year-old Seamus O'Connor of Ireland takes the Open Mens Snowboard Category at Saturday's Electric Quarter Pipe Battle 2011, held at Snow Park NZ. (photo: Fabrice Wittner)

“We’re stoked to be back at Snow Park for the sixth year,” said Electric New Zealand’s Scott Hatton. “Hyped on the new 22-foot Quarter Pipe and beautiful weather. Bring on 2012.”

Thirteen-year-old Seamus O’Connor, of both Ireland and Park City, Utah, was crowned number one snowboarder of the day in the Open Mens Division, while Snow Park NZ-based Spanish girl Queralt Castellet dominated the Open Women’s Snowboard Division.

“Thanks to Snow Park and Electric for a fun comp with a great atmosphere,” said O’Connor “It’s the best Quarter Pipe I’ve ever ridden!”

O’Connor is a Snow Park NZ Team rider and also a member of the Irish National Snowboard Team.

Californian Sean Collin became the men’s freeski champion and Wanaka’s own Amy Sheehan secured top spot against the Female skiers.

All winners walked away with an Electric Prize Pack and NZ$500 cash each.

“It was awesome that everyone from the groms to the older guys were killing it. Thanks to my sponsors, everyone who came out today and a special shout out to my girl Cassidy. Thanks for all the support,” said Collin.

The Juniors didn’t disappoint with Ryan Reed taking out first place in the Junior Ski and Lyon Farrell in the Junior Snowboard.

Japanese Snowboarder Ishizaki Tasaku, wowed the crowd taking out the snowboard biggest air, while Benji Fabrow took out the Best Trick award with a switch backside rodeo.

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