The US halfpipe ski and snowboard team, along with several other countries, were invited to come shred the private park and pipe at Aomori Spring Resort in the northern most region of Japan's main island in lieu of going to the opening ceremonies happening tonight. Many athletes deem the opening ceremonies to be their favorite part of the games, besides competing, because they get to represent their nation's colors on a global stage. Sometimes, sacrifices have to be made.

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With plenty of time between opening ceremonies and the actual halfpipe events in Pyeongchang, this seems like the smartest move for all the athletes heading there now. They get to train, relax, and shred some of the deepest pow in the world before the big show. Sounds like a good gameplan to me!

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Check out the 2018 Pyeongchang Halfpipe TV Schedule