11th Annual HDHR- Big Bear, CA

Photos and Words: Jake Pollock

Flocks of people found themselves herding to the slopes of Bear Mountain Ski Resort this past Saturday to witness the 11^th annual Hot Dawgz and Hand Railz. HDHR is an event that started as a way to bring people to the mountain for their annual season pass sale. This year, with the purchase of Bear Mountain and Snow Summit by Mammoth Mountain, Bear stopped at nothing to put on a show and get people up to the San Bernardino Mountains to buy their pass. HDHR is a timeless event that showcases talent of amateurs and professionals; allowing the underdog a chance in the limelight of the snowboard community.

Zone 2 // PHOTO: Jake Pallock — Zone 2 // PHOTO: Jake Pollock

This year’s set up was like no other, splitting the heated list of riders in attendance into two sections with various options of wall rides and rails; the riders didn’t disappoint. The practice heat was just as strong as the finals. Riders like last years champion, Tommy Gesme, to Ice Coast shredders and this year’s champion, Johnny O’Conner, athletes traveled far and wide to attend this legendary event that marks the beginning to another season of what we all love to do.

Luke Haddock // PHOTO: Jake Pallock — Luke Haddock // PHOTO: Jake Pollock

Heats were judged by our modern day “OGs” in the snowboard community: Joe Sexton, Scott Stevens, Stevie Bell, Chris Bradshaw and Deadlung along with snowboarding legend Dave Downing, so you know style was a heavy factor in deliberations. This explains why Luke Haddock full cab switch 50-50’ed his way into third place. Denis Leontyev, AKA “Bonus”, or “Denis the Menace”, was no surprise on the podium snagging second place. While “Yung JOC”, Johnny O’Conner stole the show with his effortless style, walking away $10,000 richer. Fyve snowboard’s rider Mariah Dugan walked away with $1,000 and first place for the women.

The Peoples Champ Tommy G // PHOTO: Jake Pallock — The Peoples Champ Tommy G // PHOTO: Jake Pollock

This year was no disappointment. Some of the best style in the game was present, but “the fat lady sang” and the judge’s chose the victors. Until next year HDHR! Thanks for the show!