The three day event proved to be back in full force as the Worlds top Snow athletes congregated to the Peaks of Mount Lake Wanaka for the 2009 World Heli Challenge. It was a combined series for all snow athletes in the areas of VnC Downhill, Big Mountain, and Freeride all combined with only one overall winner.
Andy Finch proved to be on top of his game after the first day finishing second behind Quentin Robbins, who looked outstanding as well. It was not all about the first day and all the riders new this. Could momentum be cared through the event and the grueling three day grind?
With epic conditions the first day it would be hard to see it last, but last it did, and the level of performance continued to be pushed as the boys got comfortable with the terrain. Andy was able to retain his momentum from day one and grab a second place finish in on the Big Mountain Day.
"I just finished what I must say is my best day snowboarding ever!" said Andy following day two. "Today I rode Mount Albert, which is a crazy steep peak with big gnarly spires all over it; I was letting loose and it felt great."
It was time to finish strong. Andy went into the final day and smashed it. He grabbed another second place result, solidifying him as the stand out of the event and locking in the overall win.
Andy Finch is showing the world what he is capable of and what he has been training for. With the Olympics right around the corner look for more big results from this California native. Stay tuned to www.ripcurl.com for more on Andy Finch and everything Rip Curl.
