Andorran Joan Aracil Wins Gold at IFSA Freeride in Chile

Andorran freeskier Joan Aracil claimed victory at the four-star IFSC freeride event in Valle Arpa, Chile, scoring 40.77 points to edge out France's Tiernan Bridges in second with 39.57 and the United States' Turner Barbour in third at 38.43.

Aracil delivered a solid run on a demanding alpine line from top to bottom, maintaining speed throughout and opening with a large 360. The event, organized by the Andorran Ski Federation (FAE), had faced rescheduling due to poor weather.

The Andorran rider, now in the Qualifier series after stepping down from the prior circuit, praised the run's strong feel. "The sensations were very good," he said. "I took a fairly alpine line, top to bottom, without speed checks, with a pretty big 360 up top." He expressed satisfaction with the outcome, noting it earns him 2,500 points key to his push for the European Challenger series.

This success bolsters his position before the three-star Freeride Chile Championship at El Colorado. Valle Arpa's steep, untouched backcountry lines challenged athletes under shifting snow conditions.