Kiwi snowboarder Zoi Sadowski-Synnott rewarded for outstanding year
New Zealand snowboarder Zoi Sadowski-Synnott was named athlete of the year at the annual snow sports awards in Wānaka. The event recognized several athletes for their achievements in the 2026 season, including Olympic and X Games medalists.
Why it matters
It showcases the development and recognition of elite winter sports talent within the New Zealand sporting ecosystem.
New Zealand's snow sports stars have celebrated an outstanding year, with Zoi Sadowski-Synnott winning the top prize, at the annual Awards night in Wānaka.
The snowboarder was crowned the overall athlete of the year for winning two Olympic silver medals, two X Games silvers, and the Natural Selection Tour championship title in 2026.
But her competition for the honour was fierce, with Ben Richards also a contender for becoming the inaugural FIS Freeride World Champion, as was skier Alice Robinson, for a career-first world cup victory in Super G.
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