SNOWMOBILE LEGEND LEVI LAVALLEE CROWNS THE FIRST RED BULL SLEDHAMMERS CHAMPION
The energy of the crowd was not dampened by the cold temperature at Ski La Reserve this past weekend for the inaugural Red Bull Sledhammers event, the first of its kind uphill snowmobile battle. The roar of snowmobile engines added to the heart pumping energy brought by spectators as 64 men and women faced off in an open class format.
“I put my all into this competition with the firm intention of winning” said Max Taillefer, the first winner of Red Bull Sledhammers. Celebrating his 29th birthday today, the Saint-Donat native said, “The event was really cool. I’ve competed in the US and Canada all season, it’s great to win at home”.
At speeds reaching close to 120km/h, athletes ascended “La Chute Libre” through a specially designed course featuring tunnels, rollers, bridges and unexpected obstacles athletes’ skills were put to the ultimate test. World Record Holder and multiple X Games medalist Levi Lavallee was on site to crown the winners.
“In my book, Red Bull Sledhammers was a big success” confirmed Levi LaVallee. “The course was great; the competition was impressive and the crowd was amazing. I’m excited to see what’s in store for the next edition!” LaVallee wowed the crowd with a side act performance with mountain bike star Darren Berrecloth.
- THE RESULTS
- In 3rd place: Éric Boudreau-Bélanger, age 29, Île-Perrot, QC
- In 2nd place: Evan Loschiavo, age 29, Vermont, USA
- And in 1st place: Max Taillefer, age 29, Saint-Donat, QC
Special mention for the 4th place finisher, motocross amateur Jean Robert, for successfully completing his first snowmobile competition in impressive time. Meanwhile, 16-year-old one to watch, Théo Poirier, surprised fans when he was quickly eliminated in the second round.
JOIN THE CONVERSATION – Visit Redbull.ca/Sledhammers to view all the highlights from the weekend. And Join the conversation using #REDBULLSLEDHAMMERS @RedBullCanada
SKI LA RESERVE – With 100 acres of skiable terrain at an altitude of 700 meters, Ski La Reserve offers an un-matched ski and snowboard experience in the region. Now offering 40 runs accommodating levels from expert and amateur, both groomed and ungroomed runs allow for a truly unique riding experience. La Reserve also boasts an extensive Snow Park, Boardercross, Fat Bike trails and tubing facility.