Australia’s alpine playground for freeriders is back in the spotlight as Hotham hosts the Freeride World Tour (FWT) Qualifier 2* event today, Thursday 24 July, with Friday 25 July held as a weather day. Following last year’s successful debut, this marks the second year Hotham welcomes the global freeride community to its iconic Peach Bowl venue, this year with an upgraded 2 Star status as they kick off the 2026 World Tour season.
With athletes competing from Australia, Canada, France, Italy, Great Britain and the United States and early season points up for grabs the competition is sure to be hot. Following more than 15cm of powder snow in the past 36 hours, the course is in top condition, primed to showcase the freeride capital of Australia with top freeride athletes from around the world.
Among the standout athletes is Finn Jacobsen, whose fearless style and commitment to progression make him one to watch in the Juniors.
“I’ve been skiing and competing on the Peach Bowl zone for many years and it’s awesome to have a competition on familiar terrain,” said Finn Jacobsen, 2024 Junior FWT Champion. “It’s also nice to have family and friends be able to come and watch. I’ve also got mates coming over from New Zealand for the event, it’ll be fun to show them everything Hotham has to offer.”
“Hosting the Freeride World Tour for a second year is a proud moment for Hotham,” said Tina Burford, Vice President and General Manager of Mount Hotham Skiing Company. “It’s a chance to showcase our terrain, support emerging talent, and inspire the next generation of freeriders, right here in Australia. I’ll be front row watching all the action!”
Media Assets Available:
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Video news reel and high-res photos will be distributed early Friday morning (25 July).
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Athlete interviews and profiles, including Finn Jacobsen, will be available via Hotham’s website: Athlete Interview: Finn Jacobsen | Hotham Alpine Resort
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Watch last year’s action: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GahSgiSnlUE
Event Details:
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Date: Thursday 24 July (weather day: Friday 25 July)
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Location: Peach Bowl, Mount Hotham
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Events: FWT 2* Qualifier & Junior 1 Competition
Find out more: FWT Returns to Hotham | Hotham Alpine Resort
Key Facts:
- FWT 2* Qualifier and Junior 1 Compeition events at Hotham today
- 15cm snowfall in the past 36 hours
- Media assets will be distributed early Friday morning, 25 July
About us:
Perched high in the Victorian Alps, just over four hours from Melbourne, Hotham is Australia’s most awe-inspiring mountain-top village. Wake up to sunrises above the clouds and wind down with sunsets that stop you in your tracks. From the beautiful mountain drive to tackling a variety of terrain (including some of the best extreme runs in the country) and amazing off-snow experiences, you’ll want to experience all sides of Hotham, a mountain that inspires guests for life.
Contact details:
Dani Wright
Senior Manager - Communications
Vail Resorts
[email protected]
