Matze Kurzthaler

After two corona-related cancellations (2020 & 2021), an event in 2022, where unfortunately no contest took place, and a weather-related cancellation in 2023, a BoT could be held again this year.

The fourth edition of the soul freeride event Back on Track took place from March 18 to 20. The hike-to-ride format once again attracted 35 motivated freeriders with splitboards, skis and snowshoes to the Silvretta on the Bielerhöhe. The hostel for the three days was once again the Saarbrücker Hütte. Compared to previous years, there was no need to worry about the weather. The forecast was for plenty of sunshine and there really wasn't a cloud in the sky for three days. Matze Kurzthaler was there for PowderGuide.

The original premiere date of the Back on Track Freeride Contest could not be held due to bad weather and the avalanche situation at the time. But the new date gave hope for a great weekend... The idea was to get back to basics - in a simple and nature-friendly way, we headed up into the wildest part of the Montafon mountains with skins and snowshoes. A three-day friendly freeride competition: freeriding and chilling out together were on the agenda. PowderGuide event reporter Matze Kurzthaler was there and has plenty to report:

Bluebird and fresh powder - plus a fine contest face with lots of cliffs and a few kickers to sprinkle on top! 60 riders took part in the Nature Ride Backcountry Contest on Saturday, February 23rd in Damüls and impressively demonstrated their skills. Marlon Holzmann won the skiers' category for the second time in a row, ahead of Sven Rauber and Pascal Sander - the best girl in the skiers' category was Yvonne Nenning. Andreas Neyer won the snowboard category, just ahead of Thomas Feurstein and Manuel Holzmann. Kathrin Thum was the best female snowboarder. Contest participant Matze Kurzthaler was on site for PowderGuide.