The Highland Claymore Challenge, one of the most anticipated freeride events of the year, is back and bigger then ever for 2009. With a stacked list of confirmed riders as well as expanded opportunities for amateur involvement the 2nd Annual Claymore Challenge returns to Highland Mountain July 16th – 19th. Confirmed riders include: defending champion Cameron McCaul, Brendan Smenuck, Aaron Chase, Jamie Goldman, Paul Basagotia and many more top pros. 

“Hell yeah I’m coming back to Claymore this year. How could I miss it? It’s true U.S slopestyle at its finest. You get a rider-built course that flows, tons of practice, and a vibe that makes you wanna send it! On top of all that, if you win, they give you a huge sword with your name engraved on it.”Cam was the first person in history to be “knighted” by Highland owner Mark Hayes. 

Head course builder and designer, Dave Smutok has been hard at work designing a new top section for the course as well as manicuring the exisiting features. Check the Highland blog for Dave’s updates and pictures of this year’s course.

In addition, the Highland crew has opened the event to up and coming amateurs through their Slopestyle Freeride series. This is the only event in the US where amateurs have an opportunity to go against the heavy hitters. 6 amateurs will have an opportunity to qualify into the big show on 2 separate events (3 riders per event will move onto the big show), June 27th and The Last Chance Qualifier July 17th. 

“Highland is doing it right, the ams need a platform to show their stuff, that is how names are made in this sport”, explains freerider and Highland local Aaron Chase. 

Mark your calendars and visit www.highlandmountain.com or email slopestyle@highlandmountain.com for more information on the Claymore Challenge.