Skier Kim Gubser Crushes World Record At Swatch Nines 2024
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The Swatch Nines—an event that brings the world's best skiers to Schilthorn, Switzerland, and sicks them on a massive, superpark-style course—wrapped up recently with the Swiss Kim Gubser establishing a new world record.
Gubser soared 47.9 feet above the Swatch Nines hip jump, smashing David Wise's previous record of 46.6 feet set in 2016.
"I tested it out a little bit with smaller speed, and then getting faster and faster," said Gubser. "We were looking where the limit is, and I found it. I found my limit."
Founded in 2008, the Swatch Nines (previously known as Nine Knights, Nine Queens, Nine Royals, and Audi Nines) was purpose-built for moments like this.
Unlike most others in freeskiing, the event isn't a competition. Instead, it's a days-long jam session, allowing involved skiers to test the limits of the sport at their own pace.
"It's a whole different experience. Everything is way bigger and looks very aesthetic," explained Gubser. "It's just a week of just having fun, being with friends, athletes and filming."
Years earlier, Andri Ragletti broke a different barrier, becoming the first skier to land a quad cork 1800 at that season's Nines event.
Like Gubser's colossal air, you rarely see quad corks in competitions—tip-toeing over the edge of what is and isn't possible on skis is immensely risky, meaning athletes, in most cases, are more inclined to stick to what they know when points and a podium are on the line.
That's the magic of events like Swatch Nines. They provide all the tools professionals need to go big—mega jumps, a supportive crew, and a flexible format—facilitating breakthroughs.
The 2024 Swatch Nines just ended, so more explosive freeskiing action is likely coming. Keep your eyes trained on the event series' socials to stay looped in.
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