PR9 – Small talk with Marissa Krawczak

FWT by Peak Performance catches up with the snowboard virtuoso ahead of FWT24

LAUSANNE, Switzerland – November 23, 2023: Marissa Krawczak is set to make her FWT debut this season, but many FWT fans may not have heard about this talented rider coming out of Oregon, USA. For starters, she has competed in prestigious events such as the Natural Selection – and rides all terrain and conditions like an absolute beast – but how is she feeling ahead of a big competitive season against the world’s best freeriders? The FWT by Peak Performance took a moment to find out…

1. What does it mean for you to join the FWT? What do you expect from this experience?

For me, joining the FWT is an exciting way to share snowboarding with a broader audience. I look forward to having fun, riding in new mountains and experiencing how other people and cultures approach snowboarding.

• Which event are you looking forward to the most and why?

I am most looking forward to the Georgia stop, largely because of the interesting geography of the mountains there; they seem elusive, and I can’t wait to check them out!

• Do you think your experience competing at the Natural Selection puts you in good stead for the FWT?

Training for Natural Selection really helped me develop my competitive mindset. The FWT is a different beast, however, especially when it comes to the style of riding and the type of terrain, as well as the tactics and snow conditions. So, it will be a whole new experience!

• How has your preparation for this season differed from previous years?

In previous seasons, I have ridden a lot of pow, snowmobiled and splitboarded, really focusing on playful riding and finding good snow. This year, I plan to ride a bigger board and put myself in steeper terrain in all conditions in preparation for the FWT. I am also concentrating on mentally preparing myself, as I want to ensure I stay in the moment and keep my mind and body balanced.

• What are your goals for this season?

My goal is to ride with all the strength and power that I have, as well as to always have fun on my board. I want to experience all the amazing energy of new mountains, and learn more about how people ride in different areas.

• Which competitor in your category are you most looking forward to facing?

I am most looking forward to riding with Katie Anderson. I don’t really know any of the other riders, and I really admire Katie’s power and speed that she rides with, which I can’t wait to see live in action!

About the FWT

FWT Management SA is based in Lausanne, Switzerland, and has been organizing premier sports events globally in mountain resorts since 1996. The company founded the Xtreme Verbier, an iconic event in freeride skiing and snowboarding and, in 2008, it turned this single competition into a prestigious series of worldwide events, called the Freeride World Tour (FWT). The company has since grown to include multiple competition series that fall under the FWT brand – including FWT Challenger, FWT Qualifier and FWT Junior – with events across all formats taking place in Europe, North America, South America and Oceania.

About Peak Performance

Born in the Scandinavian mountains out of a love for skiing in remote, untouched terrain, our passion for adventure and nature runs deep. Our purpose is simple: we bring the freeride spirit to the world. As for our products, they all have the same purpose – empower the freedom to be adventurous and follow your own line. Whether it be horizontally or vertically, on skis, by bike, or on foot, they offer a balance of style and performance. Our Scandinavian heritage is ever present and our commitment to doing better things in a better way is our never-ending responsibility. For more information, please visit: www.peakperformance.com.