Monster Energy's Ayumu Hirano and Gaon Choi Shine at Snow League Event in Aspen

Thrilling Performances at the Snow League

This past weekend, the inaugural Snow League competition lit up the slopes of Aspen Snowmass, showcasing some of the best talent in snowboarding. Hosted by legendary snowboarder Shaun White, this event brought competitors from around the world to battle it out in the halfpipe. Notably, Monster Energy athletes made a significant impact, with Ayumu Hirano and Gaon Choi each earning outstanding podium finishes.

A Look at the Competition

Running from March 7 to 8 at Buttermilk Resort, the Snow League featured 36 elite riders. This first event in a new global series was watched by fans in 90 countries, and for those in the U.S., the action unfolded live on Peacock through NBC Sports. Riders were not just competing for pride but also for valuable points that would contribute to their global rankings in this newly established system.

Ayumu Hirano's Remarkable Show

At the forefront of the men's contest was the 26-year-old Hirano from Murakami, Japan. He advanced to the finals after impressive performance during the qualifiers and faced fierce competition in the final round. In a best two out of three runs format, Hirano showcased extraordinary skill and determination. His remarkable run included a series of high-difficulty tricks such as a frontside triple cork 1440 and a Cab 1440, along with a back-to-back combination of methods and corks. This led him to clinch a commendable third place after a fierce showdown with American rider Alessandro Barbieri.

Gaon Choi's Emerging Talent

On the women's side, 16-year-old Gaon Choi from Seoul, South Korea, fought her way to a podium finish in her own right. With a display of excellent technique and creativity, she stepped up her game in the Women’s Snowboard Halfpipe final. Competing head-to-head against Japan’s Ono Mitsuki, her standout maneuvers included a switch backside 900 Weddle and a frontside 1080. These breathtaking tricks not only helped her secure the third-place spot but solidified her place as a rising star in the snowboarding community.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the Snow League?

The Snow League series promises more thrilling events in the future, with upcoming competitions set to take place in China’s Secret Garden from December 4-6, 2025, followed by another at Aspen again in February 2026, and finally wrapping up in Switzerland in March 2026. As this exciting journey progresses, rankings will eventually lead to the crowning of the first-ever Snow League World Champion, an honor that will undoubtedly hold significant prestige.

For more information about upcoming events or to follow the journey of Hirano, Choi, and the rest of the Monster Energy snow sports team, visit www.monsterenergy.com. Stay tuned on social media platforms like YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly known as Twitter), and TikTok for exclusive updates and insights into the 2025 snow sports season.

Conclusion

The success of Ayumu Hirano and Gaon Choi at the inaugural Snow League event reflects not only their talent but also the strong support from Monster Energy. These athletes are not just competing but are engaging in a lifestyle that embodies courage, skill, and excitement—traits that resonate deeply within the realm of extreme sports. With the next series of events on the horizon, the excitement is just beginning for fans and competitors alike.