Freeride World Tour Postponed in Georgia after massive avalanche triggered
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The Freeride World Tour (FWT) was set to hold its Georgia Pro event last Saturday, but dangerous avalanche conditions forced organizers to postpone the competition.
Photo: Jeremy Bernard
The event, hosted at Tetnuldi Resort, is now tentatively scheduled for Thursday or Friday, depending on snow stability. A social media update from the FWT suggests Thursday, February 27, will start clear with potential cloud cover in the afternoon, while Friday also looks promising.
The FWT will confirm the event’s start date 48 hours in advance, in line with competition protocol.
Avalanche Risk Forces Venue Change
Initially, the event was supposed to take place on the Kakhiani face. However, due to poor weather conditions preventing helicopter access, organizers opted for the Kaseb face instead—a venue never before used in the FWT.
Unfortunately, during avalanche control work, triggered slides made it clear the venue was unsafe, forcing another delay.
“Safety remains the number one priority. During today’s stabilization work on the Kaseb face, triggered avalanches reminded us that every precaution counts,” the FWT stated on social media.
The Kakhiani Face. Photo: Dominique Daher
With the Kaseb face deemed unsuitable, organizers have now confirmed the return to the Kakhiani face. According to the FWT, the venue is stable and in safe condition for competition.
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Freeride fans will recognize the Kakhiani face from its debut in last year’s FWT event in Georgia. In 2024, Marcus Goguen put down a legendary run while Sybille Blanjean claimed the top spot in the women’s field with high-speed, fluid riding.
Crucial for Qualification
Big air opportunity right at the top of Kakhiani face. Photo: FWT
The Georgia Pro is the penultimate FWT stop before the qualification cut. Beyond the upcoming event in Fieberbrunn, Austria, only the highest-ranking skiers and snowboarders will advance to the finals in Verbier, Switzerland.
Notable riders like Maxime Chabloz and Elisabeth Gerritzen are on the qualification bubble, making this event a crucial chance to secure a finals spot.
Stay tuned for further updates as the FWT navigates the challenges of unpredictable mountain conditions.
