Skiing, snowboarding competition brings early snow to Morgantown

Morgantown caught an early glimpse of winter this weekend with the "Motown Throwdown Race Jam."

The fourth annual competition took place Saturday, bringing out skiers and snowboarders who competed for a chance to win cash prizes.

"It went really well this year. It was the most attended event we've had," said Andrew Walker, event coordinator and manager at Pathfinder of West Virginia.

The competition featured an 80-foot ramp on which the 40 professional snowboarders and skiers from all over the country performed tricks, he said.

The top snowboarder and skier each received a $1,000 cash prize, Walker said.

First place in the snowboarding category went to Shaun Murphy, and first place in the skiing category went to Brandon Stark, he said.

The competition also featured a 30-foot stage and more than 10,000 pounds of snow.

"It was really impressive to see so much imitation snow laid out on High Street," said Marty Byrne, a Morgantown resident. "The setup they have here is unreal and the snowboarders are really talented."

The snow was donated by BOPARC Morgantown Ice Arena. The bottom of High Street was blocked off for the event.

The city of Morgantown, the fire department, the police department, city manager's office and city engineer's office, in addition to 20 volunteers, helped the event, Walker said.

This year's event was sponsored by Pathfinder, Oakley and Skullcandy, he said.

Red Bull was also present and handed out free cans of Red Bull energy drinks to spectators at the competition.

Local DJ Sean Nice and Mix Master Mike mixed music as spectators cheered on the competitors.

"The live DJ was a great addition to the event," said Matt Korduner, a junior general studies major. "Everyone is out here dancing in their costumes and having a great time."

Travis Crum contributed to this article.