It all starts on the Russian slopes of Sochi, followed closely by the next stage in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France. The Tour then journeys to Squaw Valley USA for the only North American stop to “ride” the mythical Tram Face that has never before successfully opened for competition, as weather deterred the event (and first legal descent) from taking place in 2009. The stage is set for a second attempt to make history on the permanently closed terrain during Nissan Tram Face - Squaw Valley USA on February 27, 2010.

“It is with great satisfaction that we announce the Freeride World Tour's third season. This year the Tour will be staged in some of the world's most renowned ski resorts. Our partner, Nissan, co-founder of the Tour, continues its unwavering support. Swatch, among other partners is reinforcing its involvement by presenting two of the Freeride World Tour's stages this year. Ensured by the participation of the world's top freeriders, we are very keen for the FWT's third season to kick off,” said Nicolas Hale-Woods, founder of the Freeride World Tour.

In Squaw Valley’s 60 years of operation, the steep rock face below Tower 1 of the Cable Car (known as the “Tram Face”) has remained strictly off-limits. Its steep and seemingly un-skiable pitch and permanent closure have made it a coveted line among the freeride set that calls the mountain home.

This winter, during the Nissan Tram Face - Squaw Valley USA, February 27 - March 5, only the world’s top international skiers and snowboarders descend on the legendary resort in an attempt to stake their claim on the hairy terrain. Last year’s event was slated to be the first-ever Tram Face opening, but a massive snow storm moved the competition to Squaw’s Silverado bowl; pushing the first legal opening of the Tram Face to 2010. FOMO: www.freerideworldtour.com