There are moments in life where gravity feels optional.
This past week, I found myself standing at the edge of the Crap Sogn Gion, the crisp mountain air of Graubünden filling my lungs, looking down into the icy, blue-shadowed curves of the world’s most famous Halfpipe. The Laax Open 2026 wasn’t just a contest; it was a glimpse into a different dimension.
Gravity is Only a Suggestion
Watching the pro athletes drop into the pipe is an experience that words struggle to capture. They don’t just “jump”; they launch. Seeing them fly twenty feet above the coping, spinning in complex technical rotations that defy physics, felt genuinely out of this universe.
When you see a rider land a perfect frontside double cork 1440 right in front of your eyes, you feel the vibration in your chest. It’s a reminder of what humans are capable of when they stop listening to the word “impossible.” For me and my Zazi quest, this was the ultimate fuel. It reminded me that to reach the next level, you have to be willing to leave the ground and trust your preparation.
Faces of the Galaxy: Meeting the Riders
One of the most incredible parts of the Laax Open is how close you get to the action. This isn’t like a stadium sport where the stars are miles away. Here, we are all part of the same mountain community.
I had the chance to meet so many of the riders I’ve followed for years. Sharing a laugh, talking about the snow conditions, and, of course, snapping some selfies! Their energy is infectious. Despite the high stakes of the competition, there is a sense of camaraderie and “stoke” that you won’t find anywhere else. These athletes are the pioneers of their craft, and their passion is the North Star for my own journey.
A Meeting with the Godfather
To top off an already legendary weekend, I had a “pinch-me” moment: meeting Reto Gurtner.
If Laax is the heart of freestyle, Reto is the heartbeat. As the visionary behind the LAAX brand and the spiritual force that turned this mountain into a global freestyle mecca, he is a true icon. Speaking with him, you realize that the Laax Open isn’t just about winning medals; it’s about a philosophy of freedom, creativity, and constant evolution.
Reto’s dedication to the freestyle lifestyle has built a sanctuary for dreamers like me. Meeting the “Godfather of Laax” felt like a blessing on my quest. He has shown that with a clear vision and enough grit, you can create a world that everyone wants to be a part of.
The Quest Continues
I’m leaving Laax with a bit of a sun-tan, a phone full of photos, and a heart full of fire. The Laax Open 2026 showed me that the sky isn’t the limit—it’s the playground.
Whether you’re a pro hitting the 7-meter walls or someone like me, chasing a personal dream, remember: keep your eyes on the stars and your edges sharp.
See you on the slopes!
Stay Wild,
Zazi
PS. Follow the adventures of Zazi, the Indonesian Athlete, Teen Model & Snowboard Girl, on Instagram: Click Here !
