Mirko Lahti was in stunning form once again down the 375m track in Ottawa.
But a slip over the last jump in the final gave Joni Saarinen and Samuel Nadeau a chance and all three lunged for the line.
It was a thrilling finish, but Lahti just edged out his rivals to take the victory and the overall world championship title.
It was also a night for some freestyle action.
The unmistakable sight of Derek Wedge spinning through the air.
Always time for a quick wave to the crowd when pulling off a trick.
But no one could top the performance of Martin Barrau, seen here pulling off his “Superman Front Flip”.
The Frenchman celebrated another freestyle victory following his unique and sensational performance.
The majestic track which runs down into the locks of Rideau Canal will be the scene for more drama on Saturday when the men and women battle it out for the title.