Australia’s Freeski and Snowboard Stars Chase Quota Spots at Cardrona ANC

Australia’s top snowboard and freeski athletes will descend on Cardrona Alpine Resort this weekend for the 2025 Australia–New Zealand Cup (ANC), running from 29 September to 3 October.

The action-packed program includes Slopestyle, Big Air and Halfpipe, with strong fields expected across both men’s and women’s divisions.

Australia will be represented by three female freeskiers and four male freeskiers, alongside five female snowboarders and nine male snowboarders, many of whom are chasing valuable FIS points and World Cup quota spots.

For Daisy Thomas (pictured below), victory in the overall ANC Freeski Women’s standings would secure an additional World Cup quota place in Slopestyle and Big Air. The 18-year-old knows how to impress on the international stage having finished seventh in both the Big Air and Slopestyle events at the 2023 Junior World Championships. 

Australians Mela Stalker and Ally Hickman will be among the strong cohort of international athletes contesting the women’s snowboard. Both already hold a Slopestyle quota, so the overall Cardrona ANC title comes with an additional Big Air quota place. The head-to-head duel will determine who takes the extra opportunity.

On the men’s side, the ANC provides a valuable platform for Australia’s emerging riders. With several making their first appearance at this level, strong results could open the door to World Cup starts later in the season.

Many athletes have been preparing in New Zealand throughout the southern winter, fine-tuning runs and showcasing new tricks in training. With quota spots and career milestones on the line, Cardrona promises a decisive week for Australia’s snowboard and freeski hopefuls.

Visit the event website for more information