Published Feb 17, 2025
Can Maddie Mastro and Ruka Hirano Capitalize on Tight Competition?
The Snow Rodeo in Calgary is set to deliver another thrilling edition of snowboard halfpipe competition, with a stacked field on both the women’s and men’s sides. Based on predictive analysis, Maddie Mastro leads the women’s category with a 6.86% probability of taking the win, while Ruka Hirano tops the men’s field at 4.37%. However, with such close probabilities among the top contenders, this event is shaping up to be highly unpredictable.
Women's Halfpipe: Mastro Looks to Solidify Her Season
Maddie Mastro is projected as the slight favorite, but her margin over the field is razor-thin. Xuetong Cai (5.95%) and Sascha Elvy (5.24%) are right behind, both capable of an upset.
Looking at Mastro’s recent performances, she has been consistent but hasn’t claimed top podium spots in the last three major events. If she can bring her best technical execution, including her signature double crippler, she has a solid chance to win. However, Xuetong Cai, a veteran with multiple World Cup podiums, will be a serious challenger.
Canada’s Elizabeth Hosking (5.04%) will also be a rider to watch, as she aims to deliver a strong performance on home soil. Meanwhile, Sena Tomita (4.96%) has been quietly improving this season and could break into the top three with a clean run.
Men’s Halfpipe: Ruka Hirano Faces a Deep Field
On the men’s side, Ruka Hirano is the top favorite (4.37%), but just like the women's event, competition is fierce. Joao Teixeira (4.22%) and Yuhang Qi (4.14%) follow closely, making this one of the most open contests in recent memory.
Hirano has been a top contender in major events but has yet to secure a dominant streak this season. His fellow Japanese rider, Yuto Totsuka (4.11%), has been a podium regular and has the amplitude and execution to challenge for the win.
Patrick Burgener (3.59%) could also be a dark horse in this event. The Swiss veteran has the experience to navigate the pressure of high-stakes events, and if conditions favor him, he may be able to deliver a podium-worthy performance.
With the margins this tight, any small mistake could shift the standings dramatically. Expect a high-scoring final where execution and consistency will be the deciding factors.
Results, stats & predictions provided by: wyldata.com
Build your own Action Sports Fantasy team and win prizes at: FLYP Fantasy Snow Rodeo
Article Sources: Snow Rodeo Official Site
Image Source: https://calgary.citynews.ca/2023/02/13/winsport-snow-rodeo-world-cup-photos