With one of the biggest winter sports events of the year only three weeks away, excitement is creeping into Tignes. The European Winter X Games is a three day event running from 16-18 March, involving competitions and exhibitions on everything from skis to skidoos, hosting some of the most talented riders from all over the continent. Preparations are under way all over resort, with construction workers battling through the snowy conditions to start the building of the X Games village, the commercial hub of the event, whilst grandstands are popping up all over resort – all overlooking the site of what is guaranteed to be an impressive display.
However, the most impressive aspect of the X Games infrastructure is by far the main half pipe. Having been completed well over a month ago it dominates the Val Claret snow front, towering high over the resorts shops and restaurants. Its icy surface glistens in the sunlight, taunting and tempting those around, daring them to have a go. But attempting to master the largest half pipe in Europe is a task reserved exclusively for only the most skilled riders, who can be seen flipping and rotating their way down the goliath, putting in the practice for the main event.
It goes without saying that the X Games is crucial for the reputation of Tignes as one of Europe’s leading ski resorts. Asked why they chose to work in Tignes, most seasonaires will list the X Games in their top few reasons for doing so. It is more than just a sporting event. It is a festival which celebrates all that most season workers stand for. One of the best spectator events you will see, it brings together a whole community from across the Alps and across Europe, with the evening social events being equally as important as the competition itself.
The Alpine staff are as excited as everyone else. This is the chance to witness something truly awesome, and it is an opportunity not to be missed. Seeing the preparations move forward only heightens our anticipation of an event like no other. Three weeks time couldn’t come sooner.