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Rails & Ales 2018

Street snowboarding often comes with getting hassled by the police, so it’s a treat when riding rails is actually facilitated by them. Last weekend in Wenatchee, WA, local law enforcement played their part in shutting down a section of downtown Wenatchee, WA to make way for snowboarders, and the thousands who came out to watch the annual Rails & Ales rail jam put on by the fine folks at Mission Ridge Ski Area. Along with constructing a quality drop-in ramp for ample speed, the event crew didn’t skimp on hauling snow down from the resort and were able to create a proper set up with two rail options. Unlike some other urban-based jams, the features were sturdy and well maintained, much to the delight of the competing riders.

Austin Visintainer, Eythan Frost and Jake Aaronson claimed 1st, 2nd and 3rd for the men’s division, respectively, and Natasha Roskach took home the top spot for the women’s. Congrats to them and the winning two-plankers of the Rails & Ales ski divisions, and to anyone who was lucky enough to come take part of the event. Exposing this side of snowboarding to the general public, and perhaps influencing some impressionable youngsters to try their luck at jibbing, can only add to the collective potential of our community. And if nothing else, it makes for a damn fun time–whether you’re riding or not.

Thanks to Tony Hickok and the rest of the Rails & Ales crew for putting on the event, and to the Mission Ridge park crew for maintaining the setup throughout the evening so that everyone could ride to their full potential. After this year’s showing, we’ll be sure to see you back in downtown Wenatchee for Rails & Ales 2019.

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