Following the initial training runs and inspection of the contest course, participants were warmly welcomed by the judges' team and organizers at the first riders' meeting and briefed on the proceedings. With two runs, everyone had the chance to showcase their skills, and as the slopestyle competition was also part of the FIS Cup this year, motivation was high to accumulate plenty of FIS points. Even challenging conditions couldn't deter the highly motivated athletes – they gave it their all, making last Saturday a unique experience.

Mayrhofen's PenkenPark is highly regarded in the international snowboard and freeski community, as evidenced by this year's PenkenBattle. Over ten nations were represented, including Germany, Scandinavia, the Netherlands, the UK, Italy, Hungary, Japan, and Australia. The Austrian up-and-coming elite was also strongly represented, and all freeski and snowboard athletes showcased their best tricks. The audience was not disappointed, and the judges were treated to a spectacular freestyle show.

Park designer Ryan Higton and his team revamped the advanced line for the contest, providing participants with a diverse set-up of jibs and kickers. Even between runs, the Mayrhofen shape team was fully engaged, ensuring the contest course was in top form for the reshaping. It was an exciting backdrop for the judges to observe the participants and award the best tricks.

Between runs, the Chill Area, supervised by the QParks crew, offered a place to relax. With good music playing, visitors could enjoy sandwiches, snacks, and drinks while watching other riders shred in a relaxed atmosphere.

The level of participants was outstanding, and they set the contest course on fire. The judges witnessed a fantastic show and were able to recognize the best tricks from the many riders. Participants were rewarded with applause and generous prizes from sponsors such as Nitro, GoPro, TSG, and Boardriding. Some riders also earned additional FIS points. Among the winners were Petr Ershov, Gustaf Lundstroem, and Mika Schweizer in the Snowboard Men Overall category, as well as Janina Walz, Mia Langridge, and Hollie Smith in the Snowboard Girls Overall category. Impressive performances were also seen in the freeski categories, including Jakob Buchmeier, Florian Pale, Andre Walkner, Johanna Sellmann, Silje Kinkead, and Hannah Marie Langes.

All recap photos and video clips of the contest are available on Facebook and Instagram! A big thank you to all sponsors, partners, and host Mountopolis for the PenkenBattle. We look forward to the next event in the fantastic PenkenPark. Until then: #staytuned and #staytrue!