Words: Burton Australia

Jindabyne local Andy James has taken out the 14th Annual Burton Cattleman’s Rail Jam at Mt Buller, finishing ahead of 15 of the best rail riders from around the globe to score himself his first Cattleman’s victory and a $4000 paycheque.

Having competed in the event for a number of years, and finishing on the podium in three previous events, he displayed a technical series of spins on and off both outer rails, gaps and tricks on the close-out rail and incredible switch riding, landing him the top spot on the podium. Another veteran of the event, Troy Sturrock took out second place, taking a clinical approach to the stair set with impeccable style and consistency. Troy takes home with him a cool $2000 paycheque and another Cattleman’s podium. Taking home $1000 and third place was one of Australia’s best up-and-coming snowboarders, Josh Anderson, whose stylish, technical and creative tricks put on a real show for the crowd. First, second and third place also scored a brand new GoPro Hero 7 with thanks from our friends at GoPro Australia.

Each year at Cattleman’s we honour the best trick on the night with an award of its own. In 2019, the Burton Best Trick was awarded to Beau Fisher, who sent a huge, never-been-done maneuver — a transfer from the top closeout take-off to frontside lipslide on the centre rail. Beau scored himself $1000 and adds another trick to the list of new tricks that continue to impress every year.

For the first time, Cattleman’s was included in the 2019-2020 Burton Qualifiers Series, a network of internationally recognised events designed to support grass-roots snowboarding. At this year’s event, Burton offered a new award, the Burton Qualifiers Wildcard, going out to the most committed, most impressive up-and-comer in two categories – the open and under 15 divisions. The Burton Qualifiers Wildcards were awarded to 12-year-old Zephyr Holmes-Whitelaw, the youngest competitor to ever hit the Cattleman’s rail, and in the open division Josh Anderson who continues to impress year on year. Both Zephyr and Josh win a return trip from Australia to the USA to compete in the Burton Qualifiers Finals Event in Seven Springs, Pennsylvania, where they will compete for bragging rights and a shot at the $10K prize purse.

Results

1st Place - $4000 – Andy James
2nd Place - $2000 – Troy Sturrock
3rd Place - $1000 – Josh Anderson
Burton Best Trick – Beau Fisher
Burton Qualifiers Wildcard (U15) – Zephyr Whitelaw
Burton Qualifiers Wildcard (Opens) – Josh Anderson