Ordino Arcalís Hosts 14th JAM Extreme FWTJ 3, Andorra's First National Freeride Championship

Ordino Arcalís is hosting the 14th JAM Extreme FWTJ 3 this weekend, part of the Freeride World Tour Junior circuit and serving as Andorra's inaugural national freeride championship.

The event, scheduled for Saturday 21 or Sunday 22 March depending on weather—with Saturday the preferred option—represents one of Europe's last three-star junior competitions and the final one in the Pyrenees. It offers young athletes a key chance to earn points for the next season. Organisers expect the full 120 participants from up to 12 countries, competing in under-14, under-16, and under-18 categories for both skiing and snowboarding.

Andorran athletes feature prominently, with 11 skiers from the Principat contesting the first national titles—all in the skiing discipline. Dani Fornell and Marc Gálvez, directors from organisers Neveski, called this edition a milestone for freeride's recognition and Ordino Arcalís's status as an international venue. The competition is coordinated with the Andorran Ski Federation (FAE).

Two faces remain under consideration for the venue, with a final choice to come soon: the Quinze Metres face at Portelles, at 2,500 metres with a 170-metre vertical drop and 35-40% gradients; or Port del Rat at 2,630 metres, providing a 230-metre drop, similar slopes, and separate start zones for categories.

Snow conditions are ideal, thanks to winter accumulations of 310 to 370 centimetres and recent fresh powder, ensuring safe descents and room for competitors to showcase their skills.

The resort reinforces its freeride credentials through 440 hectares of off-piste terrain, the Freeride Academy, and its recent hosting of the first FIS Freeride World Championships—a growing discipline eyeing Olympic inclusion.