"Both Pates and Blackwell grew up in Colorado, and returning home both riders brought back with them valuable lessons from the 2026 Games. Blackwell touched on the pride he felt wearing the USA uniform and Pates emphasizing the importance of believing in yourself."
"Blackwell and Barbieri wasted no time getting into the action, both taking turns with local riders lapping unique terrain park features built by Denver Parks and Recreation, including a massive flat box and a quarter pipe where the halfpipe-focused athletes looked right at home."
"After an early retirement in 2020 due to battles with mental health, Pates returned to the sport in a big way at the Olympic Games. Landing a finals run with a trick learned 2 weeks prior, his confidence is high going into the coming Snow League season."
Following their participation in the Milano Cortina Olympics, three elite snowboarders returned to Ruby Hill rail park in Denver to engage with the local community. Pates and Blackwell, both Colorado natives, shared lessons from the Olympic Games while participating in park sessions with local riders. The warm weather brought crowds to the park during its final three days of operation. Blackwell and Barbieri demonstrated their skills on terrain features including a flat box and quarter pipe, creating an energetic street jam atmosphere. Pates, despite luggage complications from his flight, remained engaged with the community ahead of the Snow League event in Aspen.
Read at SnowBrains
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