19-Year-Old Kiwi Skier Scores Untouchable 95 at World Cup
New Zealand teenager Finley Melville Ives just dominated the world's best freeskiers with a near-perfect first run that nobody could touch. His 95.00 score at the Aspen World Cup wasn't just a win—it launched him to the top of global rankings and earned him the prestigious yellow bib.
A 19-year-old from Wānaka, New Zealand just showed the world's elite freeskiers what the future looks like, and they couldn't come close to matching it.
Finley Melville Ives dropped into his first run at the Aspen Freeski Halfpipe World Cup and immediately put the competition out of reach. His technical tricks and massive air time earned him a 95.00 score that remained untouchable through every competitor's best efforts.
"I had such a good training, so I said to my coach I am going to go hammers for my first run," an overjoyed Melville Ives said after his victory. The teenager was so confident in his performance that he treated his second run as a victory lap, already knowing he'd secured his third career World Cup win.
The podium told the story of youth triumphing over experience. Melville Ives beat out Team USA's Hunter Hess for second place and three-time Winter Olympian Nick Goepper for third, proving his dominance wasn't a fluke.
His victory carries even bigger implications. Melville Ives now leads the World Cup standings for the entire 2025/26 Freeski Halfpipe Tour and was awarded the yellow bib, the sport's symbol of overall leadership.
The day brought double celebrations for New Zealand winter sports. Fellow Kiwi Dane Menzies, 20, landed his career-first World Cup podium with a third-place finish in Snowboard Slopestyle, also in Aspen.
Why This Inspires
At just 19, Melville Ives is rewriting what's possible in freeskiing. His combination of technical precision and fearless amplitude shows that dedication and training can elevate young athletes to beat the world's most experienced competitors.
His confidence to "go hammers" on the first run reflects a generation of athletes who aren't intimidated by big moments. They're ready to own them.
New Zealand continues punching far above its weight in winter sports, producing world-beaters from a small nation better known for beaches than snow.
Two young Kiwis stood on World Cup podiums in Aspen, and one now wears the yellow bib that says he's the best in the world.
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Based on reporting by Stuff NZ
This story was written by BrightWire based on verified news reports.
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