Philippi Outguns Bertoni for European Open Win

Level Riders Take 4 out of Top 7

Matt Philippi finished his amazing late season hot steak today with a dramatic win in the European Open Superpipe in Laax, Switzerland,  edging out fellow Level rider Xavier Bertoni who finished 2nd. With his win over Bertoni, the 2009 X Games Champion, Philippi lead a dramatic charge by Level riders.   Banks Gilberti had his best comp of the year, grabbing an impressive 6th place followed by super-rookie Duncan Adams in 7th. 

Philippi has been the hottest half pipe skier in the world over the past 4 weeks beginning with a 4th place performance at the final Dew Tour stop in Northstar, followed by a 2nd place at the US Open, and capping it off with his victory in Laax.  Matt’s super-tech winning run, giant switch 1080, followed by a right 900, to left 1080, to switch 720, to 900 nose was executed to perfection, leaving no doubt who was in charge today. 

Bertoni did not go without a fight, though, throwing down a big 540, both 900s, alley oop flat 360 and numerous switch tricks.  But in the end Philippi’s tech run was just too much. 

With his 6th place performance, Gilberti made his 1st final of the year count, highlighted by a super polished 540 leading blunt.   Duncan Adams once again included his unique switch straight air, a trick that continues to impress fellow athletes and the judges since he introduced it a few weeks ago.  Duncan now has 5 top 7 finishes in what has been a remarkable break out rookie year.

Congratulations to Matt, Xavier, Banks, and Duncan. Look for more action out of the Level Team as the season concludes at WSI next month.  

Laax Podium: 1st Philippi, 2nd Bertoni, 3rd Seaton

Banks 540. Photo: Shay Williams