PyeongChang 2018: Spotlight on snowboard

Snowboard returns to the Paralympic Winter Games for the second time after its debut at Sochi 2014.

Athletes will compete over two days in two disciplines: snowboard-cross on 12 March and banked slalom on 16 March, at the Jeongseon Alpine Centre. It will be the same venue that hosts Para alpine skiing events, in contrast to the Olympic snowboard competitions, which were held at Phoenix Snow Park.

A total of 10 medal events will be held. Men compete in three sport classes: SB-UL, SB-LL1 and SB-LL2; and women in two: SB-LL1 and SB-LL2.

The USA has the strongest field of athletes, led by the USA’s Brenna Huckaby in the women’s SB-LL1. Bibian Mentel-Spee, Amy Purdy and Mike Shea are also among the high profile athletes carrying Paralympic and World Championship medals; and are also notable for helping get the sport into the Paralympic Winter Games.

The men’s SB-LL2 is one of the most competitive and unpredictable events, with Matti Suur-Hamari, Evan Strong, Gurimu Narita and Shea all strong podium contenders.

The men’s SB-UL presents a strong rivalry between France’s Maxime Montaggioni, who is coming off a strong World Cup season, and the USA’s Mike Minor, the double-world champion.

Every competition as well as the Opening and Closing Ceremonies can be watched live right here on the International Paralympic Committee’s website. Highlights of each day’s action will also be made available.

Tickets for PyeongChang 2018 can be purchased here.