Rather than recording individual times, the attendees are split into groups depending on the gear they’re riding and set off en-masse, Chinese downhill style.

Competitors sprint from the starting line to the edge of the un-pisted mega face, strap in as fast as they can and pin it all the way down to the valley. The first one down of the pack claims it. There are categories for the guys and girls who are on longboards (over 172cm long for men, 162cm for women), those who are on old school gear (boards from 1990 or earlier), and essentially everyone else: the no-schoolers.

This year the event recorded its biggest ever attendance – no doubt helped by the perfect bluebird weather and fantastic snow conditions. As always, after the racing shenanigans were done and dusted there was plenty of time for some more cruisy slush laps, a chance to demo a board from the numerous brands that were pitched up, or for just chilling in the sun with a beer and the homies.

In the evening, the legendary Longboard Classic afterparty got going with some classic snowboard movies playing in the event tent followed by an insanely good DJ set from Mortal Kombat. Like every year, there was an abundance of foot stomping, loose dancing and the inevitable sore heads that followed the next day.

We‘re big fans of the Longboard Classic because of its inclusivity. It’s rad to see so many kids and participating, and it’s nice to have an event where the people who top the podiums aren’t necessarily the main focus. The other plus side is getting to see so much legit throwback gear in one place. From classic Burton and Sims models to Funky snowboards and Crazy Bananas – it’s all here.

Next year the Longboard Classic turns 20, and it’s safe to say it’ll be insane.