The Giro Freeski Big Air took place on the fourth day of the BRITS and an exceptional standard was set by both the guys and the girls; with Andy Matthew taking first place for his massive bio 9, and Katie Summerhayes showing the crowd that she’s a true international contender.

The weather conditions were tough due to high winds and closed-in weather and the event was brought forward to early morning. The girls were up first but as the wind was getting stronger the judges decided it was to be a one-run showdown for them. Unfazed by the challenge, Katie Summerhayes pulled a spectacular switch 5 off the big kicker. “Big up Katie she’s blatantly going to win Gold at the X-Games in the next few years,” commented judge Jamie Cameron. Taking second place was Molly Summerhayes, who pulled a smooth 720 off the medium kicker. Sissy Herant came third for her 540 off the medium kicker.

Katie Summerhayes quoted: “I really enjoyed it today but I’m surprised to hear I’ve won – what with the wind I thought anyone could have claimed it.”

After an anxious two-hour break the wind finally dropped and the judges decided the men’s final could go on. First place went to Andy Matthew for his massive bio 9 mute, in his second run he pulled a flat spin 5 with two grabs – a Japan and a true nose which also impressed the judges but it was the huge bio 9 that clinched it. James Woods won second place for his Switch 10 mute and Murray score bronze for his switch ten tail grab.

Andy Matthew quoted: “It’s so good to have won. This is the first time I’ve won and this is my third year – I’ve been fourth every year, just missing out. Practice went well and when my runs came round I wasn’t that stoked on them but obviously the judges were!”

Men
1st – Andy Matthew
2nd – James Woods
3rd – Murray Buchan

Women
1st – Katie Summerhayes
2nd – Molly Summerhayes
3rd – Sissy Herant