At the IFSA Junior 2* Regional Big Mountain Freeride competition at Smugglers’ Notch Resort on Sunday the 29th, two athletes stood out from the field of 105 competitors for their embodiment of Ryan’s spirit.

Independent athlete Walter “Bubba” Chamberlain ripped a fun and energetic run down the competition venue on the M1 Liftline while skiing on tele gear. He skidded to a stop in the finish corral sporting a huge smile, hooting at the top of his voice, with both poles waving overhead. Everyone felt his positive energy and cheered.

Amelia LaPorte from the Smugglers’ Notch Ski and Snowboard Club led the athletes waiting in the start gate as they cheered each other on before their competition runs. Amelia went on to nail a solid competition run herself and skied into the finish corral with a huge smile and fists pumping the air as her teammates swarmed her with hugs and high fives.