Wānaka’s Craig Murray has won the inaugural Yeti Natural Selection Ski event, held in the Tordrillo mountain range in Alaska today (April 18).

The invite only event saw legends of freeride take on some of the biggest names in the park & pipe world on the formidable ‘Priority 1’ face in the Alaskan ranges.

“I feel incredible, today has been something out of a dream, this whole setup being out here in the Tordrillo’s is crazy…I honestly can’t believe I ended up in the finals and ended up taking it out, it’s surreal,” Craig said. 

“I am so happy and I would like to thank everyone for all the support, it means so much.”

Craig delivered his trademark huge fluid lines during the knock out competition.

Craig Murray in action in Tordrillo PHOTO: Chad Chomlack / Natural Selection Tour

In the final round Craig produced a precision-crafted run that earned him an 85 and the win. He attacked the face with a fast, smooth line, stringing together a symphony of stylish 360s and flips, lacing them seamlessly from top to bottom.

His composure under pressure and ability to flow through complex terrain with freestyle finesse exemplified the Natural Selection vision: freeride meets freestyle at its highest level.

Craig was joined on the podium by Sam Kush of Canada (second), and Italy’s Marcus Eder (third).