Last weekend, Mt. Baker once again hosted the 28th Legendary Banked Slalom (LBS) and 686 was on hand to not only enjoy it, but represent. New team rider Sammy Luebke, 686 Rep Dave Graves and team captain Patrick McCarthy wrapped their legs in duct tape and became a part of one the most fabled events in snowboarding.

Snow fell heavy on Mt Baker up until right before the event, when the skies cleared to unveil the Cascades in all their glory and allow competitors and media alike to catch a glimpse of one of the most amazing courses in recent memory. The LBS course was wide open and fast this year, and with heavy hitters like defending champ Terje, Jamie Lynn, Shaun Palmer and Travis Rice, the competition was fierce. The course is a grueling feat for any competitor. Most riders would lay straight to their backs after their run; trying to catch their breathe after the course had hammered their legs.

Big ups to Sammy Luebke, 686’s newest addition, for holding it down into the finals. Also, Dave Graves and Patrick McCarthy for representing as well. With all the fresh snow at Mt. Baker it was hard to choose between deep powder turns and the race, and in the end, win or lose, everyone felt like a winner.

Big thanks to Mt. Baker for providing a weekend filled with great snowboarding, music, salmon, the most amazing friends and riders in the world, and a safe haven away from everything where we can get back to our roots and practice what we preach. Now go snowboarding!