The third annual Uninvited Invitational concluded with a spectacular display of skill, style, and resilience, culminating in Japan’s Himari Takamori being crowned champion and taking home the top prize of $15,000. The prestigious women’s snowboarding event, presented by The North Face and supported by a robust lineup of industry giants, unfolded over three intense days, drawing 70 elite riders from 17 countries to battle it out on Ben Bilocq’s meticulously crafted course. Beyond the prize money, the event underscored a significant shift in competitive snowboarding, prioritizing artistic expression and flow alongside technical prowess, a philosophy that resonated deeply with the video-part heavy contingent of riders.
A Groundbreaking Format Emphasizing Style and Control
From its inception, the Uninvited Invitational has distinguished itself by challenging conventional competitive paradigms. Unlike many events that primarily reward sheer difficulty and amplitude, the Uninvited Invitational’s judging criteria placed significant emphasis on control, individual style, innovative trick selection, and an intangible "wow" factor. This holistic approach ensured that a rider’s entire run, from entry to exit, conveyed an energetic and cohesive narrative. Judges were tasked with evaluating not just the successful execution of tricks, but how those tricks were landed and how the rider maintained their unique energy throughout the course. This focus created an environment where creativity flourished, allowing riders known for their distinctive video parts and street-influenced styles to truly shine.
"The Uninvited Invitational was founded on the principle that snowboarding is as much an art form as it is a sport," stated Jess Kimura, co-founder of the event, in a post-event interview. "We wanted to create a platform where female riders could express themselves authentically, where style wasn’t just a bonus, but a core component of success. Seeing Himari and all the athletes embrace this vision truly validates what we set out to achieve." This sentiment was echoed by event director Ben Bilocq, who commented, "Designing a course that encourages both progression and personal expression is a delicate balance. We aimed for features that allowed for multiple lines and creative interpretations, and the riders absolutely delivered."
The Course: A Playground for Progression with a Street Edge
Central to the event’s unique character was Ben Bilocq’s innovative course design. Spread across the terrain, it offered a diverse array of features that challenged riders to adapt and innovate. A particular fan favorite making a highly anticipated return was the "Batting Cage," affectionately nicknamed "Nicolas Cage." This year, the iconic feature evolved, presenting riders with two distinct options: a formidable wallride and a versatile rail feature. Both iterations were intentionally designed with a raw, rusted, and weathered aesthetic, imparting a genuinely street-ready feel that perfectly complemented the event’s emphasis on authentic, gritty snowboarding. This design choice not only added visual appeal but also demanded a different kind of approach from riders, rewarding those with a background in urban and backcountry freestyle.
The course’s strategic layout encouraged seamless transitions and creative linkages between features. Riders had to demonstrate not just individual trick mastery but also an understanding of flow and line selection, making each run a carefully choreographed performance. The "dugout feature," where Himari Takamori landed her Best Trick, was another example of a design element that blended conventional park elements with a street-inspired edge, prompting innovative trick combinations.
Chronology of Competition: Three Days of High Stakes and Unwavering Spirit
The event commenced with two rigorous qualifier days, where the field of 70 international riders, representing nations from Japan and the USA to Finland and Austria, vied for a coveted spot in the finals. The sheer breadth of nationalities underscored the global appeal and significance of the Uninvited Invitational within the women’s snowboarding community. Each rider was given multiple attempts to impress the judges, forcing them to balance calculated risk with flawless execution. The pressure was palpable, yet the camaraderie among competitors remained a defining characteristic, fostering an atmosphere of mutual respect and encouragement.
Despite less-than-ideal weather conditions, including periods of heavy rain and even a full-blown lightning storm that briefly halted proceedings, the spirit of the event remained unbroken. Spectators, numbering in the thousands, braved the elements, their enthusiastic cheers a testament to the captivating performances unfolding before them. This unwavering support from the crowd, coupled with the hyped-up energy of the snowboarders, painted a vivid picture of the "magic of the Uninvited Invitational." It highlighted the intrinsic joy and passion for snowboarding that transcended adverse circumstances, creating memorable moments of resilience and shared experience.
Finals Day: Takamori’s Masterclass and a Podium of Distinction
The finals day showcased the crème de la crème of the qualifier rounds, with the top contenders unleashing their most ambitious and stylish runs. Himari Takamori emerged as the undisputed star, delivering a performance that combined technical precision with an unparalleled sense of style. Her ability to execute complex maneuvers with effortless grace and maintain dynamic energy throughout her runs captivated both judges and spectators. Takamori’s dominance was further cemented by her winning the Best Trick award for an incredible backtail back 270 on the dugout feature, a testament to her innovative approach and command of the course.
Jess Perlmutter secured the second-place finish, demonstrating exceptional versatility and consistency throughout her runs, earning her $11,000. Livia Tannò rounded out the podium in third, her distinctive style and confident execution earning her $8,000. The top five was completed by Hinano Sakamoto in fourth place ($6,000) and Bella Warren in fifth ($4,000), both delivering standout performances that solidified their positions among the elite. The podium reflected a diverse array of talents, each rider bringing a unique flavor to the competition, further emphasizing the event’s celebration of individual expression.
Beyond the Podium: A Comprehensive Award Ceremony
The Uninvited Invitational’s commitment to recognizing diverse forms of excellence was evident in its extensive award categories and significant prize purse, totaling over $50,000 distributed across various accolades. Beyond the main podium, several special awards highlighted specific skills and contributions:
- Best Trick: Himari Takamori ($2,000) for her backtail back 270 on the dugout feature, a trick that blended technicality with a fluid, stylish execution.
- Quarterpipe Nicolas Cage: Stefi Luxton ($2,000) for her masterful command of the Batting Cage wallride, demonstrating power and control on one of the course’s most challenging features.
- YETI Rookie: Miyu Oishi ($1,500), recognizing an emerging talent who showed immense promise and fearlessness.
- The North Face Never Stop: Yuri Takizawa ($1,500), an award celebrating perseverance and an unwavering positive attitude throughout the competition, regardless of challenges.
- Livestream People’s Champ: Henna Ikola ($1,500), voted by the global online audience, highlighting her popularity and engaging presence.
- Switch Boss: Selin Lakatha ($1,500), for exceptional skill and confidence riding switch, a testament to her all-around board control.
- Style Boss: Henna Ikola ($1,500), further cementing her reputation for distinctive and fluid riding.
- Dark Horse: Mela Stalker ($1,500), recognizing an unexpected standout performance that surprised and impressed.
- Baldface Stoke: Midori Oshima, awarded a trip to Baldface Lodge, a prestigious honor recognizing infectious enthusiasm and contribution to the overall positive vibe of the event. This prize, an experience rather than cash, emphasizes the community and lifestyle aspects inherent to snowboarding.
Additionally, YETI recognized standout performances during the qualifier days, awarding $500 each to Himari Takamori, Marie Kuhlmann, and Jess Perlmutter on Day 1, and Mela Stalker, Henna Ikola, and Midori Oshima on Day 2. These daily recognitions underscored the depth of talent present and ensured that exceptional moments throughout the entire event were celebrated.
Industry Support and Broader Implications
The Uninvited Invitational was presented by The North Face, a brand synonymous with exploration and outdoor sports, whose commitment amplified the event’s reach and impact. The robust support from a consortium of industry leaders further cemented the event’s standing. Key sponsors included YETI, Subaru USA, Woodward Park City, Nidecker, Fat Tire, CAPiTA Snowboards, Union Binding Co., Sun Bum, SALTT, Smith Optics, Coal Headwear, Baldface Lodge, and Slush Magazine. This extensive sponsorship roster not only provided the necessary financial backing but also demonstrated a collective belief in the event’s mission to elevate women’s snowboarding and champion a style-focused competitive format.
The success of the Uninvited Invitational holds significant implications for the future of competitive snowboarding. In an era where many events chase bigger tricks and ever-increasing rotations, the Uninvited Invitational stands as a powerful counter-narrative, proving that style, creativity, and flow can be equally compelling and rewarding. This approach particularly resonates with a younger generation of riders and fans who are often inspired by street riding and video parts, emphasizing individuality over standardized athletic feats. The event serves as a crucial platform for female athletes, offering substantial prize money and global exposure, thereby contributing to the professionalization and growth of women’s snowboarding. By creating an inclusive and inspiring environment, the Uninvited Invitational continues to foster talent, celebrate diversity, and push the boundaries of what competitive snowboarding can be.
As the echoes of the crowd’s cheers fade and the riders depart, the legacy of the Uninvited Invitational endures. It’s a testament to the power of a vision that prioritizes authentic expression, community, and the undeniable magic of snowboarding, even in the face of challenging conditions. The full livestream of the event remains available, inviting viewers worldwide to experience the excitement and witness the unfolding of a new chapter in women’s competitive snowboarding.
