Why Winter Olympics Men's Snowboard Halfpipe Was Best Event So Far

From Ayumu Hirano's legendary run to Shaun White's finale, this is why the snowboard halfpipe has been the best event so far

The men’s snowboarding halfpipe had it all.

Team USA’s Shaun White, a legend of the sport, gave his final farewell as he placed fourth in his last Olympic performance. White has previously won three golds in the event. 

Watch NBC6 free wherever you are

Watch button  WATCH HERE

Earlier in the event, White had jumped into second place with a run that earned him an 85.00 score.

Get local news you need to know to start your day with NBC 6's News Headlines newsletter.

Newsletter button  SIGN UP

Fans were treated to a world-record feat during Kaishu Hirano’s run, as Hirano soared more than 24 feet above the lip of the halfpipe, the highest ever. 

A controversy almost engulfed the event, as Ayumu Hirano of Japan threw down the first-ever Olympic triple cork in what some called “the most technical run in the history of snowboarding.” But Hirano placed behind Australian Scotty James in his second run.

Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics

Watch all the action from the Beijing Olympics live on NBC

Record-Breaking Triumphs, Heart-Breaking Failures Highlight Winter Olympics

Olympic Flame Extinguished in Beijing, Italy Waves in Milano Cortina 2026

Hirano, who won silver in the last two Olympics, overcame the unexpected adversity in his third and final run. The Japanese snowboarder roared back with another triple cork, this time earning himself a score of 96, giving him the gold medal.

Contact Us