Xu Mengtao and Chen Shuo dominate the U.S. Freestyle Ultimate Airwave

The 2024 U.S. Freestyle Ultimate Airwave at the Utah Olympic Park water ramps complex concluded in spectacular fashion this past Saturday, August 24, with China’s Xu Mengtao and Chen Shuo taking top honors in a thrilling display of aerial skiing. The event attracted the world’s best aerialists, offering them a unique opportunity to launch into the 2024-25 season in style—landing in water instead of snow.

The UOP was buzzing with energy on a beautiful, albeit windy, day in Utah. Aerial skiers from the United States, Canada, China, Australia, and beyond showcased their incredible skills, setting the tone for what promises to be an exhilarating season ahead.

In the women's event, 2022 Olympic Champion Xu Mengtao (CHN) proved why she remains a force to be reckoned with, claiming first place with a back Full-Full-Full, earning a final score of 124.06 points. Xu, who only participated in one World Cup event last season after her Olympic triumph, demonstrated remarkable form and competitive spirit as she looks ahead to the World Championships season and the next Winter Games in Italy in 2026.

The winner from the previous event in Mettmenstetten, Marion Thénault (CAN), put in another strong performance but had to settle for second place this time around. Thénault also executed a back Full-Full-Full in the super final, receiving a score of 121.92 points.

Stifel U.S. Freestyle Ski Team member Winter Vinecki rounded out the podium for the women, finishing in third place with a score of 121.49 points for her back Full-Full-Full. Vinecki’s performance was especially commendable, as she made a strong comeback after undergoing a knee procedure earlier this summer.

The men’s competition was equally electrifying, with the Chinese team sweeping the podium. Chen Shuo led the charge, capturing first place with a stunning Full triple Full-Full that earned him 140.40 points.

Close on his heels was the 2023/24 FIS Freestyle Aerials World Cup champion Qi Guangpu, who delivered a spectacular double Full-Full double Full, scoring 140.00 points to secure second place. Li Tianma completed the podium in third, with 137.00 points for his double Full-Full double Full in the big final.

Results:

Women:

• Xu Mengtao (CHN) - 124.06 points - Back Full-Full-Full

• Marion Thénault (CAN) - 121.92 points - Back Full-Full-Full

• Winter Vinecki (USA) - 121.49 points - Back Full-Full-Full

Men:

• Chen Shuo (CHN) - 140.40 points - Full triple Full-Full

• Qi Guangpu (CHN) - 140.00 points - Double Full-Full double Full

• Li Tianma (CHN) - 137.00 points - Double Full-Full double Full

Following the competition, spectators were treated to the Flying Ace Allstars show — a dazzling exhibition where U.S. athletes showcased their world-class tricks on the water ramps, offering a unique and entertaining experience for all attendees.

As the aerials water ramp competition season reaches its halfway point, athletes now head to the Czech Republic for two events at Acrobat Park Štíty from August 31 to September 1. The summer season will then conclude with the final competitions in Qinhuangdao, China, on September 21-22.

FIS wishes all the athletes continued success and looks forward to the thrilling events ahead!