Zack Torres and Scout Bilbro take the top step; Alex Leahy honored with Bryce Newcomb Spirit Award at IFSA Junior 3 

The Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation (SVSEF) Big Mountain Team posted exceptional results at the Jackson Hole IFSA Junior 3 competition, earning multiple podium finishes and a special athlete recognition award for dedication to the sport and embodying true passion and enthusiasm for freeride competition.

Zack Torres dominated the U19 Ski Men’s division, capturing first place in what marks his second win of the season. The victory solidifies Torres’s position as one of the top competitors in his division.

In the women’s U15 Snowboard division, Scout Bilbro rode to a first-place finish with an incredible run that showcased technical skill and bold line selection.

Beyond purely competitive success, SVSEF Big Mountain skier Alex Leahy was awarded the prestigious Bryce Newcomb Spirit Award. The award honors the spirit of Bryce Newcomb, a passionate and talented skier who was known for his inclusive approach to the sport and contagious enthusiasm. Bryce pushed the boundaries of freeride skiing while embodying core values of fun and friendship, and even served as a judge for youth freeride competitions.

Leahy’s recognition is particularly meaningful as he returned to competition this season after recovering from two torn ACLs. The Jackson Hole event marked his first national competition since his injuries, and he finished 12th out of more than 80 athletes in his division.

“Alex is a very deserving recipient of this award,” said SVSEF Big Mountain Program Director Sarah Verst. “After navigating two torn ACLs, he returned this season with an outstanding attitude and commitment to the sport. We are so proud to have Alex on our team, and there is no one more deserving of this recognition.”

Verst also acknowledged the adaptability and support shown by SVSEF families this season: “We truly could not have pulled off the Jackson trip without the support and adaptability of our families…This season continues to throw us some curveballs, but we’re committed to staying flexible, creative, and—most importantly—having fun while we train. Thanks for bearing with us as we adapt.”

Photo: SVSEF Big Mountain Team athletes Scout Bilbro (R) and Zack Torres (L) enjoying their 1st place medals in Jackson.

SVSEF ATHLETE RESULTS

 U19 Big Mountain Ski Men

1st – Zack Torres
12th – Alexander Leahy
13th – Hank Greener
30th – Kobi Bilbro
44th – Kyle Cooper
46th – Jude Carter
9th – Hoken Johnston
60th – Cruz Bilbro

U19 Big Mountain Ski Women

8th – Tess Lightner
12th – Anna Yuras
13th – Maya Gunn
16th – Scarlett Carruth
21st – Fleur Brazil
25th – Jayden Crist

U15 Big Mountain Snowboard Women

1st – Scout Bilbro

Complete results for each event may be found at: https://liveheats.com/events/424489