2026 Rahlves’ Banzai Recap

The 2026 Rahlves’ Banzai brought a full weekend battle with the elements to Palisades Tahoe, and that made the event all the more memorable.

From the start, the weekend came with its challenges. High winds, the threat of lightning on Saturday, and heavy snowfall created a tough environment for everyone involved. But thanks to a huge effort from the team on the ground, the event came together and kept moving. It was a true test of attitude, adaptability, and effort from start to finish.

The weekend kicked off Friday with a strong start and carried that energy into the competition days. Even with weather making things difficult, the atmosphere stayed upbeat and the event still delivered the kind of excitement and community that makes Rahlves’ Banzai so special. We were excited to be part of it and to support a weekend that means so much to the mountain community.

When competition got underway, the conditions made for a true Pow Banzai. Saturday’s qualifying runs took place in about a foot of new snow, which packed down through the day, and then another two feet came down overnight into Sunday. It made for deep, demanding conditions and a weekend that competitors won’t forget anytime soon.

The field included 102 competitors from 12 different states and one Canadian, bringing together a strong mix of talent, experience, and grit. There were standout performances throughout the weekend, including Nico Monforte winning Men’s Ski, and one of the coolest stories came from Dreyson, who drove out from Utah with a friend, made the Big Final, and finished third.

There were also plenty of notable names in the mix, including Nate Holland, Keely Cashman, Cody Winters, Tyler Wallasch, Freeride World Tour athletes, former college ski racers, and plenty of everyday chargers. It was the kind of field that made every heat exciting to watch.

Check out the video recap of the event here!

We love being part of events like Rahlves’ Banzai — weekends that bring together community, competition, and the kind of grit that makes mountain culture so special.