As one of the oldest contests in the Eastern Alps, the X-Over Ride continues to surprise even after 15 years. This year, thanks to the phenomenal snow conditions in Lakarscheid, which measures 680 meters in altitude, there were some new lines, decent lines and quite a lot of freestyle to be seen. The snow was anything but optimal, especially in the lower area, with 10 cm of loose snow on very compact, partially tracked terrain on the sunny sides, demanding full concentration and a lot of hard work from even the most experienced riders. And many a good line came to an abrupt end in the hardpack shortly before the finish.
The X-Over is also extremely popular with spectators because of the good vibes, injured and curious riders without a starting place don't miss out on the action and work on their goggle tans in the public viewing area. And because the Kitzsteinhorn has so much terrain to offer, there are proper gang shreds with a dehydration guarantee after the award ceremony.
The face check took place almost exclusively in the whiteout, but the freshly fallen powder was perfectly preserved for the contest day.
Saturday began with an early gondola ride in bluebird weather. Sunscreen was the most important accessory of the day. After a bit of a delay, the ride started and the show was phenomenal. The X-Over Ride is also an annual meeting of the freeride scene from the Eastern Alps, with every rider being duly celebrated at the finish. This 'freeridefamily' vibe then continues in the sunny parking lots of the region with beer and BBQ and comes to an end at the contest party, this year in a new location. In the Backflip Bar, the party went on until the early hours of the morning, and all sorts of nonsensical but entertaining party traditions (tearing up leibers) also found their place again.
