ok, so I have attended a couple different jib academy events over the past few years and of course, they have been sick. It is such a cool, fun way for kids to get their names out there, progress and learn new tricks, or even just hang with some pros. So salomon, props for what your doing so far.
However, there is one major thing I feel that needs changed, and i'm sure many of you NSers do, too. With things as big as all expenses-paid trips to mammoth at stake, participant voting is NOT the way to go. This definitely isn't an accurate representation of who really deserves it. For the most part, a local is going to win. A good percentage of participants are locals of that mountain, and if you know a ton of the skiers, you're in. It can be rigged so easily. I remember at one specific event, there were somewhere around 100 votes... only 60 kids were in it. Also, someone could get all their friends to come or even a bunch of people to vote for them, and automatically get at least a brand new pair of skis, let alone an amazing opportunity.
Something like this needs a better system, be it judging, coach voting, etc.. just something that gives those opportunities to the skier that truly deserves it. Salomon, I'm sure you can see where i'm coming from.
NSers, please comment if you agree. Sorry for the long rant.
