On 4 April 2020, the Super Slalom returns!

Photo Elina Sirparant

For the fourth consecutive year, Opinel is proud to be associated with this unique event.One of the two founders of this extraordinary event answered our questions so that you can discover what lies behind the name SUPER SLALOM!

First name: JulienSurname: LizerouxCountry: FranceProfession: Customs officer-SkiierMy favourite Opinel: "Without hesitation, the mushroom model, because I love picking mushrooms in the forest."

Julien, can you quickly introduce yourself?

My name is Julien Lizeroux, I am 40 years old and I am a customs officer and skier. I am originally from La Plagne and have been a member of the French Alpine Ski Team since 1999. I live in Albertville, am a big sports fan and am very proud of my Savoyard roots!

Photo Louis Garnier

How did the idea for the Super Slalom come about?

The basic idea came from Julien REGNIER (a childhood friend from La Plagne and freestyle skier). He wanted to organise an XXXXXL slalom at the end of the season to bring together skiers of all backgrounds and levels to celebrate the end of the season and share a festive moment around a unique challenge. And so the Super Slalom was born!

Can you explain how a Super Slalom works?

The Super Slalom is the longest slalom in the world:

  • 300 slalom gates
  • 4km long
  • 800m elevation difference
  • 450 participants

It is the only slalom where you can compete against the best French and international skiers: Alexis Pinturault, Clément Noel, Jean-Baptiste Grange, Daniel Yule, Nastasia Noens, Tessa Worley, Federica Brignone...The categories range from U18s to Papys and Mamies Riders. Professionals, amateurs, enthusiasts, all in a festive, relaxed atmosphere but with the goal of reaching the finish line! It's quite a physical and mental challenge. Your thighs will be burning, but everyone will be smiling in the finish area!

There is something for everyone, with fun and lively areas for participants and spectators alike, and a finish village with entertainment, bars, food and socialising, followed by a concert and the prize-giving ceremony. The start is scheduled for 9 a.m. and the last competitor is expected to arrive around 2 p.m. The prize-giving ceremony will take place at around 3 p.m.

How did the idea of a partnership between Super Slalom and Opinel come about?

Super Slalom is a local event with national and even international reach. We wanted to surround ourselves with local partners and brands that we use every day for the quality of their products. Opinel is the perfect example of this, and we are delighted to showcase their products at the awards ceremony with a giant, personalised Opinel No. 13 knife given to the winners in each category.

At Opinel, we have ski enthusiasts as well as fans of sunny terraces. Is this event open to everyone?

The Super Slalom is open to everyone. If you are lucky enough to be at the start, you will enjoy a unique experience. But if you just want to come and watch the racers, or accompany friends or family, you have 4 km to watch them descend, and the entertainment and bars are open to everyone!

Final word: if you had to describe Opinel in one word!

Sharp!