London hosts World big air event

A World Cup big air event, featuring top British and international skiers and snowboarders, is returning to Battersea Power Station on 31 October.

More than 10,000 fans flocked to the venue last year to see the industrial site transformed with a 32m high ski jump, packed with 500 tons of snow.

British Olympic hopefuls Ben Kilner and Dom Harington will compete alongside last year's winner Peetu Piiroinen.

"It will be great preparation for me in the lead up to Vancouver," Kilner said.

"I'm looking forward to taking on the world's best snowboarders, especially in front of a home crowd."

And in the freestyle ski event, Winter X gold medal winner Tanner Hall will compete against British hopeful Paddy Graham.

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The three-day event kicks off on 30 October with a Battle of Britain ski and snowboard contest and music from acts including Orbital and Friendly Fires.

Marcel Looze, snowboard race director for the International Ski Federation, said: "The very special location at Battersea, the enthusiastic crowd and great performance of the riders made the first FIS [International Ski Federation] World Cup in London a success.

"FIS is proud to have London in the calendar again."

Big air is not an Olympic sport but all riders can score crucial World Cup ratings points which will improve their chances of qualifying for the Winter Olympics, which are being held in Vancouver, Canada, in February 2010.

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