VANS CUP AT TAHOE: RAIL JAM

2/12 - Last night’s rail jam kicked off with the ladies. DJ Smokey set the ambiance with his immaculate beats, as two San Francisco graffiti artists painted the scene beside the 25-stair stage. A huge crowd gathered, awaiting the performance that was about to go down. Canadian rail master Leanne Pelosi won 1st place and $1,000 with her consistency and variety of technical tricks. Anne-Flore Marxer from France impressed the crowd with her styley frontside boardslides, earning 2nd place and $500. Erin Comstock edged out Laura Hadar and Tara Dakides (who suffered an injury) for the 3rd place spot, and walked away with $400.

For the men, the field was stacked with talent. Mike Cassanova stood out in practice with his clean style, but sustained an injury in the finals. World-renowned riders like Marc Frank Montoya, John Jackson, Aaron Biittner, Silas Stannard, Doran Laybourn, and Rahm Klampert displayed their skills. But it was Idaho native Wyatt Caldwell who buttered his way into the 1st place spot and $15,000. Southshore favorite Jimi Tomer finished 2nd earning $8,000 and East-coaster Chris Rotax rounded out 3rd stashing $4,000 in his back pocket.

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All photos courtesy of Vans.