Imagine soaring through the air, skis glinting under the winter sun, as you twist and flip with precision and grace. This is the world of Freeski Big Air, where athletes push the boundaries of what’s possible—and on December 13th, in the snowy haven of Steamboat Springs, Colorado, two young stars claimed their crowns. Naomi Urness and Troy Podmilsak emerged as champions at the FIS Freeski Big Air World Cup, leaving spectators in awe and cementing their names in the sport’s history. But here’s where it gets even more thrilling: both athletes are just 21 years old, proving that youth and talent are a formidable combination in this high-flying discipline.
Podmilsak, fresh off a victory at the World Cup stop in Secret Garden on November 29th, arrived in Steamboat with momentum on his side. And he didn’t disappoint. With a jaw-dropping total score of 182.50, he outshone compatriot Konnor Ralph, who secured second place with 179.50. But here’s where it gets controversial: New Zealand’s Luca Harrington, the reigning Big Air world champion, had to settle for third place with 172.75. Is the era of the reigning champ coming to an end, or is this just a temporary setback? Let’s discuss in the comments below.
Podmilsak’s dominance was undeniable, as he topped the scoreboard in both the first and second rounds. His switch frontside triple cork 1980 in Run 1 and a right-spinning triple cork 1800 with a mute grab in Run 2 showcased not just technical skill but also the fearless creativity that defines Big Air. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about the tricks—it’s about executing them flawlessly under immense pressure.
In the women’s event, Canada’s Naomi Urness stole the show. Her first run, a switch frontside double cork 1080 to the right, earned her 83.25 points, while her second run—a switch right-spinning 1080 with a mute grab—added 73.00. These two runs gave her a nearly four-point lead over Ukraine’s Kateryna Kotsar, who trailed with 152.50. By the time Urness stepped into the starting position for her final run, the title was already hers, as no competitor could surpass her score. Her winning total of 156.25 marked her first World Cup victory of the 2025/26 season, following a second-place finish in Secret Garden and a third in Beijing.
But here’s a thought-provoking question: With Urness’s rapid rise and Podmilsak’s consistent dominance, are we witnessing the beginning of a new era in Freeski Big Air? Or will established champions like Harrington and Kotsar reclaim their throne? The sport is evolving faster than ever, and these young athletes are at the forefront. What’s your take? Share your thoughts below.
For those new to the sport, Freeski Big Air is a breathtaking discipline where skiers launch off massive jumps, performing complex tricks before landing on a steeply sloped hill. It’s a blend of artistry and athleticism, and the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games are just around the corner. If you’re curious about how athletes qualify or want to understand the differences between slopestyle, halfpipe, and big air, check out the links below for a deeper dive into this exhilarating world.
- Freestyle skiing: How to qualify for the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games (https://www.olympics.com/en/news/freestyle-skiing-how-to-qualify-milano-cortina-2026)
- Slopestyle, halfpipe and big air – what’s the difference? (https://www.olympics.com/en/news/slopestyle-halfpipe-and-big-air-whats-the-difference)
