Mayrhofen, Austria – April 2nd, 2026 – The majestic Austrian Alps served as the spectacular backdrop for a groundbreaking moment in British snowsports history as The BRITS, the national snowboard and freeski championships, unveiled its inaugural "Futures Championship" specifically for under-12 athletes. This significant addition to the prestigious event marks a pivotal step in nurturing the next generation of British talent, offering a dedicated platform for some of the youngest participants to experience competitive snowsports in a world-class freestyle environment. PlanetSKI was on the ground to witness this exciting debut, which has since been updated with further details.
For many of these budding athletes, the journey to the PenkenPark in Mayrhofen represents a monumental leap from their usual training grounds. Having honed their skills on the artificial surfaces of the UK’s indoor and dry ski slopes, and perhaps experienced a handful of local novice competitions, the sheer scale and dynamism of a professional freestyle park can be an awe-inspiring, and for some, an intimidating prospect. The BRITS Futures Championship aims to bridge this gap, providing a supportive yet challenging environment for these young enthusiasts.
A Taste of the Alps: The Thompson Siblings’ BRITS Debut
Among the pioneering participants in the Futures Championship were the Thompson siblings from Derbyshire, Sienna, aged 11, and Ezra, a spirited 7-year-old. Their regular training arena is the controlled environment of Manchester’s indoor Snow Centre, a far cry from the expansive, snow-laden slopes of the Austrian Alps. They had previously competed at The BRITS two years prior when the event was hosted domestically at the Tamworth Snowdome. Their arrival in Mayrhofen, coinciding with a week-long family holiday in the Zillertal valley, meant their first encounter with the competition venue was on the very morning of the event.
For young Ezra, the initial sight of the PenkenPark’s impressive features, particularly the large ‘big air’ jumps, was a moment of profound realization. "I was kind of scared," he admitted, his voice tinged with the memory of that initial awe. "Because they were massive." He bravely tackled the smaller jump, but the experience of landing on the steeper incline proved a challenge, highlighting the significant difference between indoor slopes and natural alpine terrain.
His older sister, Sienna, demonstrated a more seasoned composure. Having participated in several competitions before, though never in a mountain setting, she expressed a greater sense of preparedness. "I wasn’t really scared," she stated, reflecting her confidence.
Their mother, Holly Thompson, articulated the family’s motivation for entering The BRITS, viewing it as an invaluable developmental opportunity. "This morning it was a bit daunting compared with riding and doing a competition in the dome," she acknowledged. However, the establishment of a separate contest for the under-12s, featuring disciplines like big air, streetstyle (navigating rails and boxes), and banked slalom, was a key factor in their decision. This segregated competition, held away from the more experienced older athletes, significantly reduced the pressure and anxiety associated with a large-scale international event.
A Strategic Move: Fostering Future Talent
The introduction of the Futures Championship was a collaborative initiative spearheaded by Stu Brass, the organiser of The BRITS, in conjunction with Snowsports England and Snowsport Scotland. This strategic alignment underscores a shared commitment to developing the grassroots of British freestyle snowsports.
Euan Baxter, Park & Pipe Coach for Snowsport Scotland, emphasized the importance of such initiatives. He highlighted that the Futures Championship provides a crucial stepping stone, allowing young athletes to familiarize themselves with the demands of competitive freeskiing and snowboarding in a controlled and encouraging setting. "It gives them the chance to have a go and not be overwhelmed. It takes the pressure off," Holly Thompson echoed, underscoring the positive impact of this tailored approach.
Beyond the psychological benefits, the single-day format for the under-12 events also presents a practical advantage for families. It significantly reduces the financial outlay associated with extended accommodation and living costs, making participation more accessible. This thoughtful consideration by the organisers acknowledges the financial realities faced by many families investing in their children’s sporting ambitions.
Inaugural Success and Future Prospects
Nearly 30 children, with the youngest participant being a remarkable 6-year-old, took part in the inaugural Futures Championship. The event showcased a diverse range of experience levels, from those just beginning their alpine competition journey to seasoned young riders from indoor slopes.
Organiser Stu Brass elaborated on the rationale behind this new format. He noted a surprising turnout of under-12s at the Tamworth Snowdome event previously, but observed a dip in participation when The BRITS moved to Mayrhofen. "Some didn’t want to come for the whole week – it’s a lot for some families to invest in," Brass explained. His solution was to condense the under-12 events into a single day. Furthermore, a comprehensive coaching day was offered the day before the competition, with additional support provided during the event itself, all for a reasonable fee of £80. This package demonstrates a commitment to providing accessible, high-quality training and competition opportunities.
The atmosphere throughout the Futures Championship was reportedly one of great camaraderie and mutual support. Young competitors were seen cheering each other on, fostering a positive and encouraging environment. "There was a really good buzz with the kids – good camaraderie, cheering each other on – I would like to see it again," Stu Brass stated, expressing his enthusiasm for the event’s success. He has actively solicited feedback from parents to refine and improve the championship for future iterations.
Beyond the Competition: A Holistic Snowsports Experience
The BRITS 2026 extended beyond the competitive arena, offering a multifaceted experience for attendees. The event was supported by prominent snowsports retailers Ellis Brigham and The Snowboard Asylum, underscoring the strong industry backing for British snowsports development.
PlanetSKI, as a leading digital platform for snowsports news, was present throughout the event. Their coverage extended to interviewing Winter Olympic champions who attended to support the aspiring young athletes. This presence of elite athletes serves as a powerful source of inspiration and mentorship for the next generation.
In a novel addition, The BRITS 2026 also affiliated with the Altitude Comedy Festival for the first time. This integration brought a unique entertainment dimension to the event, creating a broader appeal and a more memorable experience for participants and spectators alike. The festival’s presence added a vibrant après-ski atmosphere, further enhancing the overall event.
Looking Ahead: Sustaining Momentum
The success of the inaugural BRITS Futures Championship has generated significant optimism for the future of British freestyle snowsports. The positive reception from participants, parents, and organisers alike suggests a strong desire for its continuation. The event’s ability to attract young talent and provide them with invaluable competitive experience in a world-class setting is a testament to its strategic importance.
As the dust settles on the 2026 BRITS, the focus now shifts to the feedback gathered and the planning for subsequent years. The organizers’ commitment to continuous improvement, driven by the insights of the snowsports community, is crucial for the sustained growth and success of this vital developmental program. The BRITS Futures Championship has undoubtedly laid a solid foundation for nurturing the future stars of British snowboarding and freeskiing, promising an exciting trajectory for the sport in the years to come.
The BRITS 2026 has concluded, leaving a legacy of burgeoning talent and renewed enthusiasm for snowsports in the UK. The event’s commitment to fostering young athletes, coupled with its expansion into broader entertainment, solidifies its position as a premier fixture in the British snowsports calendar. For more information on the 2026 Futures Championship and to view the results, interested parties are directed to The BRITS official website. PlanetSKI will continue to provide comprehensive coverage of the evolving landscape of snowsports, both domestically and internationally.
