CI - 15.7 Rider of the Year

1. David Benedek (Germany)
Date of birth: 03/6/80
Stance: Regular
Front: 12
Back: -6
Width: 21"
Notable Films: Afterbang
Notable Contests: 2nd European Open Slopestyle
Sponsors: Salomon, Bonfire, Anon, Ratiofarm

When it comes to Robotfood, David Benedek's Afterbang part was the dessert. With each jump and slide, a subtle rhythm emerged and built momentum until it was a full-on freestyle overture reminiscent of the great video icons of our sport. Gap to frontside boardslide, switch gap to frontside boardslide, backside 900, switch backside 900, etc.... There is no denying that this is snowboarding's video golden age and David Benedek is its new Golden Boy. Last season's runner up, J.P. Walker, was just one of the many Benedek supporters who provided this fun-loving and somewhat quirky German with the landslide victory. "I obviously weigh my choices heavily by video parts," states Walker. "A sick video part with large airs in the park and backcountry, big rails and good style. Nice interview also." Joining J.P. in praising David as the top rider were Mikey LeBlanc, Chris Dufficy and Jussi Oksanen. Heavy.