Alpine-Tree Start Gate

The Dutch national snowboardcross team came to us with the request to design a training apparatus with which they can train their race starts. While some start gates did already exist, the main reason for developing a new device was that none are portable. The developed, low-weight portable, prototype start gate can be transported in a boardbag and can be assembled and disassembled in just minutes by a single person allowing it to be installed anywhere and at all times without requiring the expensive heavy machinery that is normally needed. The developed set of gates revolutionized the team’s training possibilities, and radically improved their start performance. The prototype start gates are remote controlled and electrically operated, which enabling the coach to analyze his riders rather than operate the start gate facility, immensely improving training effectiveness. As a result the team was able to achieve its goals: a top10 world ranking, and qualification and participation in the 2014 Sochi winter Olympics!

The prototype has been developed further, with more functionality, an even lower weight and more robust design. The start gate is now commercially available at Alpine-Tree start gates. Please visit the Alpine-Tree website and webshop for more information and placing your orders!