Japanese skiers dominate men's halfpipe at Winter YOG

LEYSIN, Switzerland - The Winter Youth Olympic Games' Halfpipe event witnessed Japan's two Hiranos on podium here on Tuesday.

Pipping his compatriot Kaishu Hirano by posting unbelievable 97.33 points, Ruka Hirano seized the men's halfpipe gold.

Both Japaneses' scores are totally on a different league comparing to the third ranked Canadian Liam Brearley's 82.00.

Although sharing the same last name, Ruka said he is unrelated with Kaishu, "we are good friends and we like to chat about all kinds of things."

However, the other well-known Hiranos figure in halfpipe, Ayumu Hiranos, is Kaishu's elder brother.

"We could be 1-2-3 in Beijing 2022, of course," said Ruka who also admitted he's eager to be the "best Hiranos".

Cheering up by a huge crowd, Tuesday's event was truly a match between the two Hiranos.

Never reached 90-above in the qualifications, Kaishu's score surged to 91.00 at the finals's first run, but was soon overtaken by Ruka's 94.66.

Kaishu then surpassed Ruka with 95.66 at the second attempt, almost a champion's result, until Ruka staged an incredible 97.33 run.

The suspense was sealed by Kaishu's tumble landing at the third run.

"My brother will be proud. I respect him so much and he inspires me," said Kaishu.