A Thrilling Freeride Spectacle – 2025 Open Faces Heiligenblut am Großglockner Junior 2*

The 2025 Open Faces Heiligenblut am Großglockner Junior 2* delivered an unforgettable debut at the renowned Großglockner ski resort, offering breathtaking scenery and challenging freeride terrain. With ideal “bluebird” conditions, the competition became a true test of skill, strategy, and courage.

A Strategic Challenge in Perfect Conditions

Despite a one-day weather delay, riders were ultimately rewarded with clear skies and pristine freeride conditions. The Großglockner area, known for its varied and technical terrain, pushed competitors to make smart line choices while navigating the course.

The ascent to the start gate itself was an adventure: riders were first transported via snowcat to Hochtor, followed by a demanding 45-minute hike with skis and snowboards strapped to their backs, reaching 2,734 meters.

To ensure athlete safety, event officials adjusted face zoning based on snow conditions. A large cliff was closed the day before the contest to mitigate risk, keeping the focus on technical skill and execution.

Freeride Academy Innsbruck Dominates the Junior Categories

The 2025 Open Faces Heiligenblut am Großglockner Junior 2* competition saw strong performances from seasoned young athletes, with multiple podium finishes for Freeride Academy Innsbruck.

• Ski Men U16:
  • 🇦🇹 Laurin Oerley (AUT) claimed victory with a fluid, confident run, ending with a spectacular 360 over the Hochalpenstraße
  • 🇦🇹 Ferdinand Straganz (AUT) followed in second place
  • 🇩🇪 Zion Esser (GER) rounded off the podium in third

• Ski Women U18:
  • 🏆 🇩🇪 Tabea Tropp (GER), described as a "serial winner," dominated her category once again
  • 🇵🇱 Maja Dendys-Malecka (POL) impressively opened the contest but unfortunately crashed

• Snowboard Men U18:
  • 🇦🇹 Mark Sperle (AUT) was the sole competitor, but his strong performance earned him 81.33 points

• Ski Men U18:
  • 🇷🇴 Luca Trandafir (ROU) showcased playful riding and smooth execution, securing second place.
  • 🇦🇹 Matthias Narr (AUT), another Freeride Academy Innsbruck standout, took the top spot with 91.00 points.
  • 🇩🇪 Kilian Roedenbeck (GER) secured third place.

A New Freeride Hotspot for the Future

The 2025 Open Faces Heiligenblut am Großglockner Junior 2* proved to be a sensational addition to the freeride calendar, combining top-tier competition, a stunning venue, and incredible riding conditions. With its successful debut, the event is well on its way to becoming a must-visit stop for freeriders in the coming years.