Vernon’s Kevin Hill looked certain to defend his Canadian Snowboardcross title last weekend at Lake Louise.
After earning hole-shot in the championship heat, Hill, 24, had a sizeable lead halfway down the course; however, he spun out on a flat section of the course and lost all his speed.
He was passed by the American Jared Minghini, who went on to finish first overall, and Cranbrook’s Rob Fagan, who took the Canadian title.
“It’s boardercross and things happen,” shrugged Hill, who is sponsored by BioX Nutrition, Oakley, Dunas Skate Shop and Rancho Vignola.
Competing under sunny, winter skies against 47 riders from across North America, Hill got off to a sizzling start by clocking the fastest qualifying time. A total of 32 riders raced in four-man heats, with Hill wining all the way until the finals.
With snowboarding done until September, Hill will now dust off his BMX bike to begin competition on the North American pro circuit.
His first major event is the ABA Sea to Sky Nationals, June 10-12 in Squamish.
