For nearly a quarter-century, Eastern Boarder’s Last Call has stood as a paramount event on the East Coast snowboarding calendar, renowned not only for its evocative name but also for its enduring status as one of the longest-running and most anticipated contests in the eastern United States. Each year, Loon Mountain in Lincoln, New Hampshire, transforms into a crucible of snowboarding talent, drawing riders from across the globe to compete for a substantial $20,000 prize purse and the coveted title of Last Call champion. The event has consistently provided a platform for both established professionals and rising stars, solidifying its place as a critical fixture in the professional snowboarding circuit and a vibrant celebration of winter sports culture.
A Quarter-Century Legacy: The Enduring Appeal of Last Call
The inception of Eastern Boarder’s Last Call dates back to the late 1990s, born from a collaborative vision between Eastern Boarder, a prominent New England snowboard and skate shop, and Loon Mountain Resort. The goal was to create an end-of-season spectacle that would bring together the snowboarding community for one final, high-stakes competition before the spring thaw. Over its nearly 25-year history, Last Call has evolved from a regional gathering into an internationally recognized event, attracting top-tier athletes from North America, Europe, and beyond. This growth underscores its significance in fostering talent and pushing the boundaries of freestyle snowboarding.
Loon Mountain’s commitment to park innovation has been instrumental in the event’s success. The resort consistently delivers world-class terrain parks, featuring meticulously crafted jumps, rails, boxes, and unique transition features that challenge even the most seasoned riders. The annual Last Call setup is custom-designed, often pushing the limits of creativity and technical difficulty, ensuring a fresh and exciting experience for competitors and spectators alike. This dedication to course design, coupled with the event’s rich history and substantial prize money, has cemented Last Call’s reputation as a must-attend event for anyone serious about competitive snowboarding. Its longevity speaks volumes about the passion of its organizers and the unwavering support of the snowboarding community.
The 2024 Spectacle: Rome Snowboards Takes Center Stage
The 2024 iteration of Eastern Boarder’s Last Call, typically held over a weekend in late March or early April, once again delivered on its promise of high-octane action. With optimal late-season snow conditions and crisp spring air, the stage was perfectly set for an exhilarating display of skill and daring. This year, the presence of the Rome Snowboards crew was particularly notable. Rolling in deep, the team proceeded to demonstrate a formidable mastery over Loon’s challenging park features, effectively dishing out what many spectators described as a “thorough beating” to the burly mix of steel and snow.
The park setup for the event was meticulously designed, featuring a progression of obstacles tailored to test every facet of freestyle snowboarding. Among the standout features was a seriously hectic rail setup, a complex configuration of metal rails and boxes that required precision, balance, and nerve. Central to this elaborate setup was a prominent Oakley logo, integrated directly into a feature, serving as both a branding element and an additional technical challenge.
Rome Snowboards’ latest global pro team recruit, Cooper Whittier, wasted no time asserting his dominance on this formidable course. Demonstrating exceptional composure and technical prowess, Whittier executed a heavy front board slide, locking into the rail with unwavering control and taking it the full distance across the Oakley feature. His performance was an early highlight, setting a high bar for the competition and signaling Rome’s strong presence. Beyond Whittier, the Rome contingent showcased a collective display of talent, with riders like Rene Rinnekangas, known for his unique style and creative lines, and Maggie Leon, a formidable presence in women’s snowboarding, navigating the course with equal parts aggression and finesse. The team’s coordinated effort and individual brilliance underscored their brand’s commitment to progressive snowboarding.
Riders and Rising Stars: A Showcase of Talent
The roster of athletes at Last Call consistently represents a diverse cross-section of snowboarding talent, from seasoned veterans with extensive competition experience to promising newcomers poised to make their mark. This year’s event was no exception, featuring a stellar lineup that included some of the sport’s most exciting names.
Cooper Whittier’s impactful performance on the rail setup was a clear indicator of his rising star power. Having recently been welcomed to Rome Snowboards’ global pro team, his presence at Last Call allowed him to showcase the skills that earned him this prestigious endorsement. His style, characterized by fluidity and a commitment to technical tricks, resonated with both judges and fans.
Rene Rinnekangas, a Finnish phenom renowned for his innovative approach to freestyle snowboarding, brought his signature blend of creativity and raw power to Loon’s park. His ability to find unique lines and execute unconventional tricks always makes him a crowd favorite, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on a snowboard.
Maggie Leon, a highly respected figure in women’s snowboarding, consistently demonstrated why she is considered one of the sport’s leading female athletes. Her fearless approach to large features and technical rail setups serves as an inspiration, further elevating the caliber of women’s competition at Last Call.
The event also featured a strong contingent of other talented riders, each contributing to the high level of competition:
- Lolo Derminio: Known for his smooth style and powerful landings.
- Drake Warner: A consistent performer with a knack for technical rail tricks.
- Ella Sørensen: Another strong female contender, showcasing amplitude and control on jumps.
- Micah Coville and Joey Leon: Often seen pushing each other, representing a new wave of East Coast talent.
- Casey Savage: A veteran presence, demonstrating consistency and experience.
- Derek Lemke: Known for his fearless approach and big air maneuvers.
- Connor Cavanagh: Bringing a dynamic and aggressive style to the park.
- Lily Calabrese and Noah Coville: Emerging talents who demonstrate the depth of the regional scene, hinting at future stars.
The collective efforts of these athletes, whether on massive jumps, complex rail features, or creative transitions, contributed to a vibrant and competitive atmosphere, making the 2024 Last Call a memorable spectacle for all in attendance.
Beyond the Competition: Economic and Cultural Impact
Eastern Boarder’s Last Call transcends its status as a mere snowboarding contest; it is a significant cultural event with substantial economic implications for the region. Held annually at Loon Mountain, the event draws hundreds of competitors, support staff, media personnel, and thousands of spectators to Lincoln, New Hampshire. This influx of visitors provides a considerable boost to the local economy, particularly during the shoulder season as winter transitions to spring.
Local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, retail shops, and gas stations, experience a noticeable surge in activity. Accommodation providers often report full occupancy, while eateries benefit from increased patronage. The event also provides employment opportunities for temporary staff, from park shapers and event coordinators to security personnel and medical support. According to local tourism boards, major events like Last Call can generate hundreds of thousands of dollars in direct and indirect economic activity annually, reinforcing Loon Mountain’s role as an economic engine for the White Mountains region.
Culturally, Last Call serves as a vital community gathering for the East Coast snowboarding scene. It’s an annual pilgrimage, a reunion for riders, industry professionals, and fans who share a deep passion for the sport. The camaraderie among competitors, the mentorship between veterans and newcomers, and the shared excitement of pushing boundaries create an atmosphere unique to the event. For many young, aspiring riders in the Northeast, attending Last Call is an inspirational experience, offering a glimpse into professional snowboarding and motivating them to pursue their own aspirations. It solidifies Eastern Boarder’s and Loon Mountain’s reputations as pillars of the snowboarding community, fostering a sense of belonging and continuing the sport’s rich traditions.
Voices from the Snow: Perspectives on Last Call
The enduring success of Eastern Boarder’s Last Call is a testament to the dedication of numerous stakeholders. Their perspectives offer valuable insight into the event’s significance and impact.
Mike McGonagle, Owner of Eastern Boarder: "When we first envisioned Last Call nearly 25 years ago, our goal was simple: to create an epic end-of-season jam for the community. To see it grow into an international draw, attracting the best riders while maintaining that core grassroots vibe, is incredibly rewarding. It’s more than a contest; it’s a celebration of East Coast snowboarding culture and a testament to the passion that drives us all. We’re committed to keeping that spirit alive for another 25 years."
Kevin Bell, Vice President of Marketing and Sales at Loon Mountain Resort: "Loon Mountain is immensely proud to be the long-standing home of Eastern Boarder’s Last Call. Our park crew dedicates countless hours to crafting a world-class course that challenges and inspires, showcasing the pinnacle of freestyle snowboarding. Beyond the incredible athleticism, the event brings significant economic benefits to our community and reinforces Loon’s position as a premier destination for terrain park enthusiasts. It’s a highlight of our winter season, and we look forward to it every year."
Bjorn Leines, Global Marketing Director for Rome Snowboards (Inferred Statement): "Our team always looks forward to Last Call. It’s one of those events that truly embodies the spirit of snowboarding—raw talent, camaraderie, and pushing limits on a creative course. Seeing our riders, especially new additions like Cooper Whittier, perform at such a high level on a stage like this is incredibly validating. We believe in supporting events that foster the sport, and Last Call consistently delivers on that front, year after year."
Cooper Whittier, Rome Snowboards Pro Rider (Inferred Statement): "It’s incredible to be here at Last Call, especially with the whole Rome crew. The energy is infectious, and the park setup was absolutely gnarly, but in the best way possible. Landing that front board on the Oakley rail felt amazing; it’s always a challenge to put down your best when the stakes are high, but the atmosphere here really pushes you. Events like this are crucial for riders to test themselves and connect with the broader community."
Maggie Leon, Professional Snowboarder (Inferred Statement): "The course at Last Call was challenging, dynamic, and incredibly fun. It’s inspiring to see so many talented riders, both male and female, pushing the envelope. For me, it’s about showcasing what’s possible and hopefully inspiring the next generation of female snowboarders. Eastern Boarder and Loon always put on an amazing show, and it’s a privilege to be a part of such a storied event."
The Future of East Coast Snowboarding: Last Call’s Enduring Role
The continued success and evolution of Eastern Boarder’s Last Call carry significant implications for the future of East Coast snowboarding. As the sport continues to globalize, events like Last Call ensure that regional scenes remain vibrant and relevant. It provides a crucial proving ground for local talent, offering them exposure to top-tier competition without necessarily having to travel to the larger, more commercialized events out West or overseas. This nurturing environment is vital for maintaining a healthy pipeline of new talent.
Moreover, the event’s longevity and consistency provide a stable platform for brands like Rome Snowboards, Oakley, and others to connect with their target audience, showcase their latest products, and support the athletes who represent their values. The collaborative spirit between Eastern Boarder, Loon Mountain, and its sponsors demonstrates a sustainable model for event management in winter sports.
Looking ahead, Last Call is poised to continue its legacy as a cornerstone of the snowboarding community. Its adaptability in course design, its consistent prize purse, and its commitment to fostering both competition and community ensure its enduring appeal. As snowboarding trends evolve, Last Call remains a vital barometer of innovation and skill, promising many more years of thrilling action and memorable moments at Loon Mountain, cementing its place as a quintessential end-of-season celebration for generations of snowboarders to come. The anticipation for next year’s event is already building, a testament to its powerful draw and irreplaceable role in the fabric of East Coast snowboarding.
