Global athletes light up the slopes in NW China’s Xinjiang-TIANSHANNET-天山网

Shiliuyun-Xinjiang Daily (Reporter Zhang Ting) news: On December 15, 2025, the 2025 FWT Hemu Freeride week 3 Star qualifier kicked off at the Jikepulin International Ski Resort in Hemu Village of Altay Prefecture, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, top skiers and snowboarders from nine countries and regions gathered, igniting the snow-covered arena with passion.

Photo taken on December 15, 2025 shows participants of the 2025 FWT Hemu Freeride week 3 Star qualifier kicked off at the Jikepulin International Ski Resort in Hemu Village of Altay Prefecture, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (Photo offered by FWT CHINA camera crew)

This marks FWT's third season in China, and expectations for this year's events are higher than ever. After the one-star qualifier launched the new season on December 12, 2025, the more challenging three-star competition now serves as both the ultimate test of the athletes' skills and a sign of the growing scale of Altay's winter sports scene. Over the last two winter seasons, more than 500 freeride enthusiasts from China and abroad have pushed their limits on these slopes. Now, with steeper terrain and more complex natural features, the stage is set for top riders to discover what's possible next.

The event was conducted in strict accordance with FWT international standards. A panel of certified judges from China and abroad scored each run based on five criteria: line choice, control, fluidity, technique, and air & style. This rigorous system helps advance the professionalization and global integration of freeride sports in China.

On the mountain, athletes had to make split-second decisions: take a safer line around exposed rocks to maintain a clean, flowing run, or attack the most technical features with difficult moves when others might hesitate, all to maximize their score. Each precise turn and high-stakes jump reflected their deep experience and bold commitment.

After a full day of intense competition, the winners in the four main categories, namely Snowboard Women, Ski Women, Snowboard Men and Ski Men, were decided. These athletes earned their moments of glory through exceptional skill, thrilling spectators with the excitement of world-class freeriding.

As a featured event of the 2025 Xinjiang Hot Snow Festival, the competition was complemented by activities like demo-skiing, showcasing the synergy of "winter sports + athletics + culture + tourism" across Xinjiang. The festival offered visitors an immersive way to experience the appeal of snow sports.

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