Mason flies to halfpipe silver medal

The 17-year-old, sponsored by Snozone, broke his thumb in January, hampering his training in the build-up to the competition.

But he didn’t let his lack of preparation affect his performance. Despite poor conditions, Mason’s run consisted of both way flairs, a left 5, an alley oop left 5, and a left flair 7 - enough to land him second place and a silver medal.

“I’m still pretty happy with the outcome of my season learning a few tricks in the pipe,” said Mason afterwards. “Because I was limited on what I could practice on the pro line kickers, my focus had to change to the rails and I was stoked to be in the final 6 of the Over 16s Bangers & Cash rail jam.

“Unfortunately on my last run practicing a back 360 transfer gap swap on a rail to a down rail with a 1.5m gap between the rails, I didn’t land it smoothly and injured myself so had to withdraw from the finals.

“It’s been a hard season with injuries but thanks to my coach, Joe Tyler of JT Freeski Academy, he’s kept me positive and pushed me to train in other areas.”

“Coming back to Milton Keynes gives me the chance to pass on my skills and enthusiasm to other and younger riders who enjoy messing about in the parks at Snozone, and encouraging them to learn tricks for the jumps with Harlequins trampolining club.”

Keep up-to-date with Mason’s progress at his Facebook page: www.facebook.com/mason.ferebee/