27th Annual NEBS Draws Riders from B.C. and Beyond
From young riders just getting started to seasoned veterans and pros, NEBS continues to deliver what it has become known for over nearly three decades: a welcoming, high-energy gathering that celebrates the spirit of snowboarding across generations.
This year’s field brought together riders from across British Columbia—led by a strong Okanagan presence—as well as competitors from across Canada, the United States and Australia, highlighting NEBS’ growing reach beyond Big White.
Evolving While Staying True to Its Roots
Despite nearly three decades of history, the heart of NEBS hasn’t changed.
“The event stays true to its roots,” says Flynn Seddon, Director of Terrain Parks and Outdoor Events at Big White. “One of the biggest changes is that we now have the ability to move the course location depending on snow conditions. That flexibility has helped ensure we can continue hosting the event even in lower snow years.”
A New Generation of Riders
One of the most noticeable shifts in recent years is the evolution of the snowboard community itself.
“What we’re seeing is an evolution of the snowboard family,” says Seddon. “I’ve been riding for over 40 years, and now a lot of first- and second-generation snowboarders have families of their own. We’re seeing a big emergence of kids in the 13-and-under categories, while there’s a noticeable gap in the 15 to 25 age group.”
That shift is also reflected in the level of riding on course.
“The level of riding has increased significantly, especially among younger riders,” he adds. “In some cases, kids are putting down times that rival the pros.”
Designing the Course
At the core of NEBS is the banked slalom course itself—shaped by terrain, conditions and a philosophy rooted in progression.
“That’s the beauty of a banked slalom—it’s based on the natural terrain your mountain gives you,” says Seddon. “We don’t necessarily design the course around ability levels. If you can’t ride it, you challenge yourself to get better.”
He notes that while the original gully location is known for being more technical, courses built within TELUS Park allow for slightly more accessibility due to machine-built features.
“There’s a bit more leniency in the park, but you still need the skills to participate,” he says.
Fastest Runs of the Weekend
The Pro divisions once again delivered some of the fastest and most competitive riding of the event.
In the Female Pro category, Rumi Cooper (Brackendale) took the win with a time of 1:24.71, followed by Genevieve Pilotto (Val-David) in second with 1:26.27, and Carleigh Quiring (Kelowna) in third with 1:27.89.
In the Male Pro category, Kai Hooper (Burnaby) claimed first place with a blazing 1:17.19, just ahead of Austin White (Kelowna) in second at 1:17.42, and Chris Bradley (West Kelowna) in third with 1:17.52.
A Gathering Across Generations
Part of what makes the Neil Edgeworth Memorial Banked Slalom so special is the diversity of the field. This year’s event included categories ranging from 11 and under to 60+, along with para and pro divisions, reflecting the event’s enduring ability to bring together riders of all ages and abilities on the same course and in the same community.
That sense of connection is what has defined NEBS for 27 years. While the event is known for fast runs and fierce competition, it is equally rooted in camaraderie, tradition and a shared love of snowboarding.
Whether riders came from down the road or across the globe, the 2026 edition once again showed that the heart of banked slalom culture is alive and well at Big White.
Visit the BC Snowboard website for full results: bcsnowboard.com/events.
For more competition updates and highlights, follow the Neil Edgeworth Memorial Banked Slalom group on Facebook and Instagram.
