Big White Announces Top-Level Slopestyle Event Hosted By Tom Van Steenbergen
Rider: Tom van Steenbergen Location: Bike Big White Photographer: Robb Thompson
PRESS RELEASE: Big White Invitational Hosted By Tom van Steenbergen
It's real. It's big. It's happening.
The site has been cleared, dirt is being pushed and ramps built for the new slopestyle course, home of the Big White Invitational hosted by Tom van Steenbergen. As the only event at this level in North America; for the pros, it will be the last event for many riders to qualify for Joyride at Crankworx Whistler, or to earn a wildcard invite. For the amateurs, this is a chance to ride with some of the best in the world.
It has always been important for Big White to support and build opportunities for local athletes. While new to the bike scene, it makes sense for Big White to work with local rider Tom van Steenbergen to build a course and event as part of his legacy, not only at Bike Big White, but in the Canadian riding scene.
 | This is a rider/builder inspired slopestyle with the goal of building a bigger and better riding scene here in Canada. We want to build a course that the riders will like and that will inspire each individual’s best performances. |
"We're excited to help continue growing the sport of slopestyle in North America," says Alex Chisholme and Austin Davignon of LOFT Bike Parks. "Our aim is to build a course that is consistent, flowy and fun for the riders, in an effort to maximize progression and create the best show possible for spectators."
Dustin Gilding, builder for LOFT, starts dirt work for the course.
Tom van Steenbergen and Alex Chisholme from LOFT walk the course line to discuss jumps and features.
Big White has partnered with the crew at LOFT Bike Parks to bring Tom's vision to life. Seeing the course take shape, Tom was asked what he's most excited about. The answer, speaks to the spirit of the event and riders who will be able to compete somewhere close to home..."just getting to ride this course with my friends, enjoying all of it and taking it in".
Bronze Open Event
Thursday, July 5
4 Wildcards for Gold Qualifiers
Gold Qualifiers
Friday, July 6
30 Athletes
25 Top Ranked FMB Riders Invited
Host Tom van Steenbergen
4 Wildcards from Bronze Open Event
Gold Event Finals
Saturday, July 6
15 Riders from Qualifiers
1 Wildcard for Joyride Crankworx Whistler up for grabs
This is an event not to miss - beer gardens, food trucks, music, expo, demos, a special screening of North of Nightfall under the stars on Friday and of course the official After Party at Session's Taphouse & Grill on Saturday. Check out the Event Schedule.
20 Comments
They have a shop and services and there are opportunities to get involved in group rides and bike related training. The team there are also members of MTBco so a great way to get involved with a larger group as well.