If freestyle skiing were a superhero, its origin story would start in the picturesque mountains of New Hampshire, where Waterville Valley Resort laid the groundwork for what we now know as freestyle skiing. This winter, the sport is coming home in style as Waterville Valley hosts the Moguls and Dual Moguls FIS World Cups on January 24 & 25, 2025. Get ready, ski fans—it’s going to be a mogul-filled extravaganza!
A Legacy Worth Celebrating
Waterville Valley isn’t just another ski resort—it’s the birthplace of freestyle skiing in America. Back in 1969, it introduced the first freestyle instruction program in the U.S., and in 1970, it hosted the first-ever National Open Championships of Freestyle Skiing. Talk about trailblazing - here's a great video clip to give you all the freestyle mogul-ing history:
Over the years, the resort has hosted an impressive lineup of competitions, from U.S. Freestyle Championships to alpine World Cup races. Now, after more than three decades, World Cup freestyle skiing is returning to these historic slopes.
But this isn’t just about history—it’s about the future. As freestyle legend Hannah Kearney put it: “Waterville Valley gave me my start. Watching the best in the world compete in your backyard is an incredible inspiration for young athletes.”
For two days in January, this world-class course will challenge the planet’s top mogul skiers as they twist, turn, and launch themselves into gravity-defying jumps. The event promises to be an adrenaline rush for competitors and spectators alike.
Hosting the World Cups at Waterville Valley is about more than just incredible skiing (though we’re definitely here for that!). It’s part of U.S. Ski & Snowboard’s mission to grow the sport. By bringing elite competition to the East Coast, they’re shining a spotlight on freestyle skiing and inspiring the next generation of mogul-loving shredders.
Hannah Soar, a Stifel U.S. Freestyle Ski Team member, knows the power of seeing greatness up close: “This event will bring visibility to mogul skiing on the East Coast and give young athletes a chance to see the best of the best. It’s a game-changer for the region.”
A Party on the Slopes
Waterville Valley is rolling out the white snow carpet for this event. Tim Smith, the resort’s President and General Manager, couldn’t be more excited: “Hosting a World Cup event after more than 30 years is incredibly thrilling. We’re ready to welcome the world’s top athletes and make this an unforgettable experience for everyone.”
Expect a weekend full of action, energy, and plenty of ski stoke. Whether you’re a longtime freestyle fan or just curious about the sport, this is your chance to witness the magic in the very place where it all began.
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