MINI Creative Use of Space Award Winners Announced

Following a partnership between MINI and Burton, the Creative Use of Space competition has finally announced its winners, with Cilka Sadar (19) of Slovenia and Yale Cousino (28) from the U.S. getting the award for their snowboarding creativity. Votes from MINI Facebook fans from all over the world established the two young riders as the winners, who are to share the total prize money of $50,000.

MINI and Burton were looking for bold, innovative snowboarders who showed standout creativity during the BGOS (Burton Global Open Series). Judges compiled a short list of the most innovative runs from the Burton European Open, Burton Canadian Open and Burton US Open.

“The Creative Use of Space Award is good for our sport and allows snowboarders to give their creativity free rein and ride without worrying about any rules – just like in the days when snowboarding started out,” said Yale Cousino, who plans to use the prize money to launch his own fashion label.

Cilka Sadar also wants to put the prize money towards a creative project, but first she plans to invite her friends to a party where they will have to show off their own creative dance moves. Sadar is convinced that “the prize will spur other riders to be even more creative with their runs next season.”  

Also, BGOS overall winners Kelly Clark (USA) and Peetu Piiroinen (FIN) each got a MINI Countryman to take home with them. The MINI Countryman was available as shuttle service for athletes and VIPs.

On site at the Burton US Open, interested spectators have had a chance to test-drive the MINI Countryman. MINI shuttles have been ferrying there the athletes to their events.