WHISTLER, BC – April 15, 2017 - Thursday night at the World Ski & Snowboard Festival (WSSF) in Whistler, BC, five of the top action sports photographers from around the world showcased their life's work at the OLYMPUS Pro Photographer Showdown. New Zealand born, Jake Darwen and his playful skateboarding and the unique lifestyle photos wowed the judges and audience alike. The judges crowned Jake Darwen Best of Show and was awarded the grand prize of $10,000. The Tahiti based, French photographer, Ben Thouard warmed up the event with his tropical surf inspired presentation granting him the People's Choice Award and $1,000 of prizing.

As the preeminent annual action sport photography contest in the world, the event is an unparalleled celebration of commitment to still images that capture both time and the human spirit. Similar to last year, four photographers were selected and invited to compete. The fifth spot was reserved for a Wild Card Entry whereby any action sport photographer could submit. All five photographers were flown in to showcase their life's work, including Jake Darwen, Andrew Miller, Ben Thouard, Bruno Long and Wildcard Entry Daniel Ronnback.

Before this event 24 year old, Jake Darwen had never touched snow before, he travelled across the world from Melbourne, Australia, where he is based, to show his life's work at the OLYMPUS Pro Photographer Showdown. Jakes unique style comprised of fearless skateboarding, the youthful skateboarder community and lifestyle. Having the least experience out of all 5 photographers, Jake never expected to win the Showdown and was shocked when his name was called for the grand prize.

More information about the OLYMPUS Pro Photographer Showdown is available at http://wssf.com/Olympus-Pro-Photographer-Showdown

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The World Ski & Snowboard Festival (WSSF) is produced by Watermark Communications, a Whistler‐based event production & communications company, and presented in partnership with Tourism Whistler and Whistler Blackcomb. Having grown over 22 years into the largest annual celebration of snow sports and music in North America, WSSF is a 10 day and night showcase of some of the best of mountain culture, music, arts and snow sports. Featuring the largest annual free outdoor concert series in Canada, ski and snowboarding competitions, photography and film showcases, and spring skiing at Whistler Blackcomb, the World Ski & Snowboard Festival is the poster child for the ultimate ski and snowboard festival experience. In blazing the way for the youth of tomorrow, the World Ski & Snowboard Festival embodies the mantra: 'Party in April. Sleep in May.'

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