Monday, August 31, 2009

BSA Snowboarding.COM / SnowboardMagazine.ORG



Friday, August 14, 2009

Jamie Anderson & Sebastien Toutant win NZ Open slopestyle 2009

LAKE WANAKA, New Zealand (August 14, 2009) – Another day of bluebird skies graced Cardrona Alpine Resort, which remained impervious to the clouds, sitting above the inversion layer once again for men’s and women’s slopestyle semifinal and final competitions today. Part of the Burton Global Open Series and the Swatch Ticket To Ride World Snowboard Tour, the seventh annual New Zealand Open showcased some of the world’s best riders as they took to Cardrona’s 800m long slopestyle course, which featured up and downrails, boxes, three kickers and a unique upstair feature to quarterpipe.



A field of 42 men and 16 women were battling it out for a piece of the $24,000 slopestyle prize purse and the top spots worth $6,000 each. An international field of riders from nine countries included New Zealand’s own Shelly Gotlieb, James Hamilton, Stef Zeestraten, in addition to BGOS Champions Chas Guldemond and Jamie Anderson, Olympians Danny Kass and Mason Aguirre, and many more.

The women were first to drop and competition was stiff through semifinals, but it was Kiwi Shelly Gotlieb that came out on top, killing it on the course with a run that featured style and variety on the rails, a Cab 5 indy, a backflip and a backside 360 tailgrab. Gotlieb continued to ride strong through the finals, taking third, being outdone by Janna Weatherby (USA) in second and 2008 NZO slopestyle champion Jamie Anderson (USA) in first. Anderson impressed the judges with a run that started with a street style tailslide, 5-0 to fakie on the box into a switch backside 360 on the first kicker, followed by a Cab 540 melon into a front 360 melon, followed by a 5-0 on the uprail, to a tail stall on the quarterpipe, finishing with a 50/50 frontside boardslide on the kinked rail. “I had a blast,” said Anderson of her win. “It was a beautiful day, we lucked out with the weather, and I was happy with my riding, I had so much fun today.”

French Canadians Sebastien Toutant and Charles Reid clinched the top two spots in men’s semifinals, Toutant taking the top spot by wowing the judges with his signature “Toutsie Roll,” a backside doublecork 1080 melon. Reid couldn’t stick his run in the finals, dropping him to the back of the pack, but Torstein Horgmo (NOR) threw down in his third and final run with back to back 1080s, giving him an edge and finishing second. Eric Willet (USA) stuck back-to-back 900s and had smooth style on the rails, giving him an edge and riding away with third. But in the end, Sebastien recreated his winning run from semis by starting off with a backside 270 on the first rail to 50/50 backside 360 on the second rail, into a backside rodeo 540 indy, into a Cab 900 stalefish, followed by a backside 1080 double cork melon, followed by a noseslide on the uprail to alleyoop backside 50/50 on the quarter, finishing with a frontside boardslide on the kinked rail. “I’m so stoked to win my first contest of the year,” said Toutant. “It was a great course, very different. I had fun trying new things and am so happy to do well.”

With 850 TTR ranking points, both winners of today’s slopestyle finals took over the world number one spots on the Swatch TTR World Snowboard Tour. The Burton New Zealand Open is a perfect opportunity for riders to get a jumpstart heading into the Northern Hemisphere winter.

Tomorrow the New Zealand Open will come to a close with halfpipe semifinals and finals, don’t miss your chance to see Olympic Gold Medalists Kelly Clark and Shaun White, in addition to two-time Olympic medalist Danny Kass, past Olympians Mason Aguirre (USA), Cheryl Maas (NED), Antti Autti (FIN) and Olympic hopefuls like Jiayu Liu (CHN), Peetu Piiroinen (FIN), Jamie Anderson (USA), Justin Lamoureux (CAN), Lisa Wiik (NOR), Danny Davis (USA) and Sina Candrian (SUI).

Burton would like to thank Cardrona Alpine Resort, Go211.com, Speight’s Summit Golden Lager, Juice TV, The Edge FM, Anon Optics, High Cascade Snowboard Camp, Nature Valley, goodbars.co.nz, Joe’s Garage, SolRX, McKenna, Smirnoff Ice Double Black and Swatch TTR World Snowboard Tour for their support of the New Zealand Open.


Results
Slopestyle Final Women
1 Jamie Anderson USA Billabong
2 Janna Weatherby USA Volcom
3 Shelly Gotlieb NZL Burton
4 Joanna Dzierzawski USA 686
5 Silvia Mittermueller GER Oakley
6 Hana Beaman USA Vans

Slopestyle Final Men
1 Sebastien Toutant CAN O’Neill
2 Torstein Horgmo NOR DC
3 Eric Willett USA OMatic
4 Tore Holvik NOR Sweet
5 Seppe Smits BEL Burton
6 Stef Zeestraten NZL Oakley

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Winter X Games Europe for March 2010


First Winter X Games Outside the United States; Tignes to Host.

ESPN, CANAL + Events and Tignes Ski & Snowboard Resort will launch the first Winter X Games Europe March 10-12, 2010. The event will be the first Winter X Games held outside the United States. The event will bring together ESPN’s world class X Games franchise with France’s leading pay TV broadcaster and the local expertise of Tignes. A definitive list of the world’s top winter action sports athletes will be invited to France to compete for medals and prize money. There will be eight different competitions over three days, including Ski and Snowboard SuperPipe and Slopestyle for men and women as well as a Snowmobile demonstration.

CANAL + Events CEO, Jean Louis Dutaret said, “We are delighted to work with ESPN and the X Games team to bring the Winter X Games to Europe. CANAL + Events and the ESPN events team will draw on all their experience to ensure this is the biggest and best winter sports event in Europe in 2010. As for soccer, rugby and many sports, CANAL + Group will consider X Games as a global project, including TV, Internet and mobile. In a Winter Olympic year, and only a few weeks after athletes have competed in Vancouver, fans in Europe will again be able to watch the top names in the world compete head to head.”

”Nothing could be more justified than Tignes as the host resort of the first Winter X Games Europe. Tignes, the sportiest European ski resort, is always at the forefront of action and freestyle winter sports,” said Tignes Ski & Snowboard Resort Manager, Sebastien Merignargues.

Rick Alessandri, ESPN Senior Vice President and Managing Director, X Games Franchise said, “Working with CANAL + and Tignes, and drawing on more than 10 years experience of running the Winter X Games in the United States, we are excited to bring winter action sports fans in Europe the best action sports event they will see in 2010. This first event outside the U.S. reflects the continued global growth of the X Games franchise as well as the progression of action sports in Europe.”

CANAL + Networks (CANAL +, CANAL + SPORT, Sport +) will show the Winter X Games in France and French-speaking territories (Caribbean, French speaking Africa) live (or on-delay) so that those unable to come to Tignes will be able to see the event. ESPN will be responsible for all distribution outside of France.

ABOUT ESPN’s X GAMES FRANCHISE
ESPN first developed its X Games franchise in 1995. The X Games, Winter X Games and All Access are just some of the original action sports programming currently shown on ESPN and ESPN2. In addition to the two U.S.-based events, ESPN has held X Games competitions and demonstration events around the world, including Dubai, Thailand, Brazil, Mexico, Korea, Malaysia, China and Spain. The global franchise has also expanded its reach to both XGames.com and ESPN.com/action, the definitive sites for action sports fans, and to consumer products such as X Games bikes, protective gear, skateboards and DVDs.

CANAL + Events
CANAL + Events is a CANAL + Group subsidiary in charge of events producing and TV rights dealing. CANAL + Group is the first French Media Group with more than four billion turnover. High quality content that can be aired on TV, Internet and Mobile and then sold on DVD is the key word for CANAL + Group. CANAL + Events mission is to create or to co-produce content that can serve that strategy.

TIGNES
Located in the Northern French Alps, in Savoie, from 1,550 to 3,500 meters high, Tignes is linked to Val d’Isère and is a part of the espace killy, one of the biggest ski areas in the world. With athletic and young clients of whom 54% are foreigners, Tignes is known as the most cosmopolitan and sportiest resort in Europe. Always at the forefront of alternative and action sports and on the look out for new freestyle trends, the resort has a wide experience in event organization. Tignes is a big, white playground where riders enjoy expressing themselves.

Details and a list of scheduled athletes for ESPN Winter X Games Europe will be
forthcoming on www.canal-plus.fr for the public.

Saturday, July 18, 2009

MFM & Friends working hard to earn...




Words by MFM... YOOOoooooooo!!! So here it is, our very own MFM & Friends movie! Our style, our terms, whatever we want, hope you like it!! This is our crew and these are the things we do! Enjoy!!- MFM, professional snowboarder.


Thats right, MFM Inc. and F.O.D.T . have joined forces to collab on this years highly anticipated movie, Hard To Earn. The title says it all, feel the emotions of passion,dedication and the pain our riders went through this season to make it happen and to keep the dream alive. Experience a new level of professional cinematography mixed with the skills and style of such riders as MFM, Lucas Magoon, Travis Kennedy, Dylan Thompson, Derek Dennison, Chris Bradshaw, Johnny Paxson, Jake Devine, Jeremy Worm Grendahl, Jonah Owen, Cory Cronk and many Friends.- Cole Taylor, F.O.D.T. Producer/Filmer.

YAN DOFIN INTERVIEW

Sunday, July 12, 2009

NZ rider Charlotte Trundle gains new outerwear sponsor: Betty Rides








BSA Snowboarding NZ shred Charlotte Trundle is happy to now be associated with girl focused outerwear company Betty Rides. The fresh gear will surely help Char to stay warm at the hill while enjoying some FUN riding at her local New Zealand mountains of Snowpark, Cardrona, Remarkables

bettyrides.com

they only make womans outerwear they make a huge range of stuff all the pants come in different fits like skinny fit (holden style) mid fit and baggy so its dope. Lots of bright unique stuff... (Charlotte Trundle)




Freeze Tv video


Watch out for Charlotte this season in NZ. She's keeping busy filming, shooting with pro photog Pablo Azocar, and competing. She is confirmed for the 5 Star TTR Burton Global Open Series event NZ open 11th August Cardrona. www.opensnowboarding.com



Check out some previous Comp Results:

American season 09

1st place echo mountain traffic jam

2nd place Cricket Campus rail jam Boulder

3rd Volcom peanut butter rail jam Mammoth

Runner up Nikita video comp out of 80 girls “stylish riding through the park”

Competition results: 08 NZ season:

3rd Electric quarter pipe jam

3rd Mountain dew stair set comp series Snowpark nz

2nd Stair set comp series Snowpark nz

3rd Stair set comp series Snowpark nz

2nd overall points stair set comp Snowpark

1st woman’s Dunedin rail comp and 3rd in men’s division

3rd Remarkables slopestyle


Friday, July 10, 2009

British publication Document Snowboard Magazine Vacancy


Document Snowboard is looking for a salesman. Or woman.

We've just taken on a couple of new people to expand our sales operation and now need to ramp up Document's team. Working with editor James Bryant you'll be a key member of the team taking Document's take on snowboarding to the world.

With a relaunched mag and new website to sell in, it's going to be busy so
we need someone with proven sales skills and burning with passion for snowboarding.
Wannabe writers, those who need their hand holding and someone looking for a part time job need not apply; this is full time and we want you to be in the thick of the scene within days of starting.

Please send CVs with a covering letter explaining why you'd be so good at this job to richard@fall-line.co.uk
www.documentsnowboard.co.uk

Thursday, July 9, 2009

Nike rider Trevor Jacob: It's not work it's fun to me, pure fun.



Trevor Jacob is an emerging rider from the States. He is one of the new school. With solid backing from Nike and Forum this snowboarder has the potential for a great career & fun times in the future.

Where are you from? and where have you historically done most of your snowboarding ?

I'm from Malibu, CA. I grew there and my family and I would drive up to Mammoth every weekend until I was 8 or 9. My dad wanted to build a home up there for us to have for vacation. He was planning on moving up to build that. I told him I wanted to move with him so I could snowboard more. My mom and brother stayed in Malibu because my brother didn't want to move. I lived in Mammoth for a year before my whole family decided to move to Mammoth.

What part of snowboarding gives you the most enjoyment?

Riding powder, hitting what I want to hit in my own way, going big off natural jumps, and finding the most creative line.

What comps, if any, are will you be hitting up this year?

I'm doing the Grand Prix, the Dew Tours, the US Open, The WCI which is the west coast invitational in Mammoth, and a couple more here and there.

What filming projects have you been involved with, or are going to be part of?

I have been making a video with me and my friends called GKC I'm not really sure when it will be done but it's getting there! And also the Mammoth video that will be getting sent out in next seasons Snowboarder Magazine as a free video.

Which riders are pushing progression in snowboarding at the moment and why?

Luke Mitrani, and Travis Rice are for sure pushing it right now.

Where would you like to see yourself in 5 years from now?


Snowboarding, snowmobiling, BMXing. basejumping, skateboarding and doing all the other things I love.

What advice would you give to groms wanting to make snowboarding a 'job'?

Do what you love. It's about who's having the most fun. Meet new people, and travel as much as you can. It's not work it's fun to me, pure fun.

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

BSA Snowboarding Kiwi shred Christy Prior is killing it...




BSA Rider UPDATE:BSA Snowboarding Kiwi shred Christy Prior wins American Express NZ Winterfest Rail Jam 2009 Images coming soon... Well done Christy!





CLICK here: Christy Prior interview


CLICK here Christy Prior BSA Snowboarding NZ

Saturday, July 4, 2009

Transform gloves. It's a London thing...


Transform Gloves was started in the summer of 2007 during a rainy day in London..

Year one has just been completed for the 2008/09 season.

The original idea of Transform Gloves came about because we were tired of seeing a huge influx of American influences in snowboarding. Transform Gloves goal was to create a brand that was not only European but drew on the sights, colours and culture that Europe has to offer.

Transform Gloves has a selection of some of Europe’s most technical riders. There are a total of three UK riders on the team. Tyler Chorlton is on the international team and John Feesh Weatherly and Laura Berry are holding up the rookies.

Tyler had amazing part in the Pirates movie last season, which included a now infamous triple front flip. He has been traveling around the word filming for his part in the upcoming movie. Feesh has been laying down the most technical rail tricks in Mayrhofen for his part in the new whitespace release. This movie will turn heads. Laura has been shooting in Avoriaz and winning everything she enters. Most recently the Vans dawn of the shred competition at the Milton Keynes Xscape.


Currently Transform is available in a select few stores in The Netherlands, Austria, Sweden, Norway and Finland. Next year’s range will spread further across Europe and will be available on a couple of online stores.
It is important at Transform Gloves that the correct, rider owned and independent stores carry our products.


For more information on Transform gloves, go to www.transformgloves.com

Sunday, June 28, 2009

Snowboard Poland ?




Snowboard Poland ?

Snowboarding in Poland has started moving on in recent times. No longer are wooden skis the norm, snowboarding is becoming more and more popular. Not only does Poland offer superb value for money, but good snow and fun places to ride.

These are not the views of someone simply trying to sell holidays but those of seasoned snowboard instructor, Gareth Nicholls. Gareth was born in the UK and has worked all over the world, including resorts in Europe, Canada and New Zealand. Three years ago he took the chance to work in Zakopane, Poland’s winter sports capital. During his time in Zakopane, Gareth and his Polish girlfriend and fellow snowboarder Monika Struczowska realised the true potential of what can be offered to snowboarders in Poland. This potential is now being realised. With the help of London based business man Harj Murria, White Side Holidays Ltd are now bringing Poland to you through fun, professionally-organised holidays.

Offering all-inclusive skiing and snowboarding holidays to Zakopane, Poland, White Side Holidays take care of everything from airport transfers to accommodation, lift passes to ski and snowboard lessons and even nights out. All of this and more from as little as £389 a week! Zakopane is a lively town with lots going on through the winter. The fact that Poland has not yet joined the Euro currency also means you can eat, drink and party all night for half the price you will find in most resorts worldwide.

If you would like more information about skiing and snowboarding in Poland then feel free to check us out at Whiteside Holidays

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

FBBB's Mikee says: Nothing lasts forever so embrace, appreciate & love it






For Boarders By Boarders FBBB are doing great things for grass roots snowboarding in the UK. Mikee is one of the passionate snowboarders behind FBBB. He gets it done...
Hometown?

The ‘big smoke’ known as London town baby! ;)

What is FBBB, who is involved & how did it all start?

FBBB is a travelling community event formed from a collective of board riders, artists, park shapers, designers and musicians. Representing a group of people who are all enthused and inspired by riding.

The concept is to provide and encourage progression by delivering innovative parks catered to riders for all levels with the emphasis on simply having fun. (Which is what its all about at the end of the day!) The ideology is to attract an audience to inspire and grow the sport by welcoming new comers. At the same time providing a platform for the up & coming sub cultures to express themselves.

Originally started by myself, Thom Boddington, Katie Craggs and our head of music DJ - ch!co but as we’ve evolved and grown, more friends (Sarah, Aly, Ben, Neil & Dan) have jumped onboard to help make FBBB what it is now.

New website coming soon btw! :)

Use 3 words to describe your relationship with snowboarding

I love it! or ‘Best thing ever’

Where do you foresee FBBB in the future, say in 5 years from now?

I forsee FBBB playing a major part in the future of grass roots riding, providing & encouraging progression (with the emphasis on just havin fun) for all kids and new comers. Becoming an established event & brand. Not just in the UK but worldwide. Possibly providing a scheme/academy and having a team or riders.

A base in the UK and a base in the Alps - So summer events all over the world during the summer and events on the mountains in the winter.

We’ve just teamed up with ‘Snow-camp’, - a youth charity providing disadvantaged young people from London with the chance to experience mountain sports. So there are short & long term plans for this as well which I feel will keep us busy.

We have a great team of people all pushing towards making this happen. As they say, its just a matter of when not how...;)

Which snowboarders do you respect and why?

Damn.....so many but lets narrow it down to 5 then. (In no particular order)

Travis Rice – Purely for the fact I believe he is pushing the boundaries the hardest and just a really sick snowboarder. Arguably the best in the world at the moment. Certainly when it comes to hitting big booters anyway.

Nicholas Muller – Just cuz I like the way he rides and how humble he is. Plus he’s very eco friendly which is important of course. And of course his brand ARCUS have given us prizes for the past 2 years so we gota love that!

Wolle Nvelt – Just love how fluid his riding is and how consistently good his parts are year after year. Same as the other 2 I mentioned above really. And of course he’s part of the infamous Asthetiker crew whom we have huge respect for.

Jed Anderson – Just love watchin him kill it on rails. Never fails to impress...

Terje Haakonson – I had to mention Terje because of the impact he’s had on snowboarding and the amount of people he’s inspired in a positive way. Plus the fact he’s 1 of the pioneers of freestyle snowboarding. You have to respect that.

I feel bad for all the other amazin riders I didn’t mention but oh well....

You work hard to push the UK shred scene. What key events are coming up and why should snowboarders go?

Thanks man. All the FBBB events are key! I would say that though hey ;)
No but seriously, I feel all the events are important and its good to see more events happening because as a rider you can always learn something when you ride and if you seriously want to progress then ride as much as possible. If anything I feel there aren’t enough events being organized!

The FBBB event at Snowworld in Landgraaf, Holland will be super special as its our 1st event in a dome outside of the UK. A fun packed two day event! Stay tuned via the website for more up to date info...

Describe your ideal day...

Waking up to a bluebird day (its been snowin hard all night!) after a good nights sleep in a chalet with all your favourite people, having breakfast together (filled with loads of banter – Standard!), catching 1st lift & rippin thru some freshies, takin in the scenery & vibe that the mountains offer, followed by lunch with the crew & maybe a quick power nap in the sun, then a good few laps in the park, jacuzzi, massage, dinner with the crew and maybe a quick jive to some good beats & nice ladies in a club – going to bed with a big smile.... ;)

FBBB is involved with art and music in addition to snowboarding. Tell us about this collaboration?

Well snowboarding isn’t just a sport when you love it like we do so its very much a lifestyle & culture. In that sense music & art comes hand in hand with it and we wanted to offer entertainment to those (mums, dads, general public etc) that aren’t there just to ride. Also the progression doesn’t just lie within the riding but also within music & art. We provide a platform for up & coming brands, artists, musicians, filmers etc to be involved, to express themselves and be part of the community & network.

What effect do you think the newly built Hemel indoor snowcentre London has had on UK snowboarding?

Oh it can only be a good thing. I reckon its had a positive effect & will continue to do so. The more facilities the merrier surely! As snowboarding becomes more accessible to more people. Its all about spreading the love no? I’d like to think more people will be encouraged into trying it out & getting into it which can only be a good thing cuz we all know how much fun it is!

Any Mikee C (FBBB) worldly words of wisdom to share?

Nothing lasts forever so embrace, appreciate & love it as much as you can and do it as much as you can. Just keep on keeping on man!

Thanks bro! Its been fun.
click to visit FBBB website

Friday, June 19, 2009

Keegan Valaika is a rare talent with insane style




Keegan Valaika is a rare talent with insane style. Insanely good style. Snowboarding is often seen as a sport or even a chosen lifestyle. However, it is only when riders like Keegan emerge that allows it to be observed as an art form.


Hometown?

Laguna Beach, CA

How was your recent northern hemi winter & what did you get up to ?

It was good before and after I got hurt. I tore my MCL and was out for 3 months so that was a bummer. But as soon as I got back on the snow I was able to get a trip to Minnesota and a trip to Alaska in filming for the Burton movie. Early season I was able to film a couple things with videograss as well so I should have some stuff in their video also.

What plans are there for a trip to the southern hemi. if any ?

Budgets are tight these days so I haven't heard of any southern hemi trips this summer. Seems like the companies are trying to save all the money they can, which means no more summer trips for me. As much as I like going down to NZ for summer, I can't say I'm bummed at all to take some time off and just hang out in Laguna.

Your riding style has been described as being like pro skater Tom Penny. What are your thoughts on this?

That's cool. I think everyone's style is somewhat influenced by the people they looked up to as kids. For me those were mostly skateboarders, and Penny was definitely one of them. I used to watch his part in the ES video Menikmati every day.

What is it like representing a huge company such as Burton snowboards ? What are the benefits and drawbacks, if any?

Benefits are things like, never having to stress on whether or not your check will show up every month, overnight shipping, things that you would expect from a well established company. The drawbacks are generally just the hate. People love to hate on Burton. So since I ride for them I tend to catch a lot of that hate. The thing I don't understand is how some of these kids talking shit on Burton are the same kids riding snowboards made by rollerblade companies. It's one thing to hate on them for being big and corporate, but at least they don't make rollerblades.

What snowboarding trick gives you the most pleasure?

Backside lipslides. best feeling ever. or Just hauling ass through a steep deep pow run making huge turns.

Which snowboarders do you respect and why?

The one's who aren't dicks. haha. Basically, as long as they're nice to me when I meet them, I got mad respect. I respect Nate Bozung and Matty Ryan more than anyone though because if it weren't for them I would probably still be doing contests. They gave me a chance to film a part when no one else would. BozWreck for life.

Where is your favourite spot to shred?

for street stuff Rail Gardens for sure. For just plain cruising through nature it's Alaska hands down.

What did you have for dinner?

chicken, kombucha, pita bread, and some berries.

Monday, June 15, 2009

Pre -opening shred at 'JP Mountain lab' The Remarkables NZ




The JP Mountain Lab At The Remarkables | Transworld Snowboarding




courtesy of NZsnowboard.TV check it out

For more video footage from NZsnowboard.com click NZsnowboard.TV

Local shreds Nick Hyne, Jeremy Thorns, Jordan Rehrer, Mark Anderson, Heath Patterson & friends check out the upper terrain park before opening 20th June 2009

Sunday, June 7, 2009

Forget summer - Swatch TTR heading down under



08/09 Chas Guldemond at Stylewars
08/09 Charles Reid at Stylewars
08/09 Mikkel Bang at NZ Open




Date: 3.06.2009

Updated: 4.06.2009 10:07

By: TTR Press Office


The 08/09 season of the  Swatch TTR Tour will go down in history as the most progressive, thrill inducing snowboard championship yet. In what was a fiercely fought showdown, Peetu Piiroinen (FIN) climbed up to overtake the No.1 World Ranking from Chas Guldemond (USA) and Kelly Clark (USA) who reached the top at the last 6Star event of the Tour. Both raised the crown in the end, but it was not without a series of challenges from the likes of Kevin Pearce (USA), Shaun White (USA), Kjersti Oestgaard-Buaas (NOR) and Jamie Anderson (USA).   

Prior to the later months of the season, riders were competing in the “Southern Hemisphere” leg of the Tour. The events which transpired Downunder were to shape the rest of the season and it is only a matter of months before it all kicks off again.  With 2009/2010 being the Olympic year, the Southern Hemisphere events will be more important than ever as riders scramble get some practice in while earning crucial points before the busy competition times in February.

Also in 08/09, the Southern Hemisphere events  played a pivotal role as it gave numerous riders the chance to gain a solid grounding of ranking points to dominate throughout the season.  Both Chas Guldemond (USA) and Jamie Anderson (USA) held onto the World No.1 rankings for 22 and 41 weeks respectively.  

The new season will be kicked off by the Thedbo Freeride Series, a series of amateur events starting in June and going into August. New for the 09/10 season, Burton has decided to combine to the Burton Australian and NZ Open events into one premier “Southern Hemisphere” spectacular. The Burton New Zealand Open from 11th – 15th August 2009 will offer two chances to gain 5Star ranking points and surely attract many international riders to go head to head with the trans Tasman rivals.  

Again on the Swatch TTR Tour Calendar from 24th – 28th August 2009 is one of Downunder’s most spectacular event, the 4Star Stylewars presented by Oakley, in Falls Creek/ Australia. Stylewars has since its inauguration been a mix of spectacular snowboard action and lifestyle with live concerts, film premieres and a rail session and is always attracting some of the biggest riders on the TTR Tour such as Chas Guldemond (USA), Torstein Horgmo (NOR) or Charles Reid (CAN).

One of the last events of the SH winter will be the Boost Mobile Sno Sho, an innovative tournament with two parts. Starting off with the crowd favourite, ‘longest rail’ slide and progressing to  the Swatch TTR part of the event, the Big Air and Jam Rail competition.

Apart from the above mentioned, the TTR still awaits the confirmation of more events in the Southern Hemisphere. But on thing is for sure - more than ever, the Southern Hemisphere winter will play a defining role in the 2009/2010 Swatch TTR World Tour Season.  Progression will be pushed and riders will be out looking to grab early season points to bolster their Title hopes. Tune into to www.ttrworldtour.com in July and August for the 2009/2010 kick off.


Top 10 rankings as of June 1st, 2009 based on the season-end bonus point system:

MEN

1    Piiroinen, Peetu    FIN
2    Guldemond, Chas    USA
3    Autti, Antti    FIN
4    Pearce, Kevin    USA
5    Mattila, Risto    FIN
6    Reid, Charles     CAN
7    White, Shaun    USA
8    Malin, Markus    FIN
9    Toutant, Sebastien    CAN
10    Aguirre, Mason    USA


WOMEN

1    Clark, Kelly    USA
2    Wiik, Lisa    NOR
3    Anderson, Jamie    USA
4    Maas, Cheryl    NED
5    Oestgaard Buaas, Kjersti     NOR
6    Mittermueller, Silvia     GER
7    Candrian, Sina    SUI
8    Pancochova, Sarka     CZE
9    Sladics, Chanelle    USA
10    Hollingsworth, Ellery    USA

TTR website



Friday, May 29, 2009

Kiwi shred talent Christy Prior joins BSA Snow Development Team NZ






Christy Prior is welcomed by current BSA Snow Development Team riders (NZ) Adam 'Midgey' Shaw, Guy McCully, Charlotte Trundle, Jay Walsh & Maia Stier

BSA Development Team (NZ) Rider Interview: Christy Prior
Hometown?
Auckland, New Zealand

Use 3 words to describe what snowboarding means to y
Progression, lifestyle and ridiculous amounts of FUN!!

Where is your favourite place to ride and why?

Back home for the NZ season Wanaka/Queenstown. The ampmosphere and all the people you know and love to ride with come back for another kick arse season again and again and again!!

What trick gives you the most pleasure?

switch lip 270 out... only when it doesn't deal to you rail to face .

What are your future goals within snowboarding?

I wanna hit up the mammoth PBRJ world finals in Mammoth,CA next year again this time aiming for podium finish...finger crossed!! also venture out into slopestyle events not just rail jams...jumps here i come!!

What, in your opinion, would make the snowboarding world better?

cheaper accom,food and flights!!

Today Christy Prior is feeling..... fantastic!!

Do you have any random words of wisdom?

Rail v's Face hurts and... land on your feet!! i assure you, you'll always come out better off.

Click Below for BSA Snow Website:




Watch out for Christy this coming southern hemi season...

Thursday, May 14, 2009

The Future of British Snowboarding? 15 year old Jamie Nicholls...






Jamie Nicholls is a developing UK shred talent. He is quickly gaining much deserved recognition, not only in England but, around the globe. At 15 Jamie's snowboarding skills are obvious and his scope for future progression appear to be limitless. In the near future watch out for good things to come from this young gun...

Hometown?

Bradford, England.
What is your age and when did you first strap on a snowboard?
I am 15 and i started when i was 7.
Use 3 words to describe what snowboarding means to you
Amazing, Fun and adventurous
What is it like being a British Snowboarder? What are the benefits and drawbacks ?
I think its the same for everyone, the only difference is that we don't have mountains.
What snowboarding tricks are you playing with at the moment?
I want to try the Switch Backside 9. Hopefully next season. I just got the Switch cab 1080s
Where would you like to see yourself in 5 years time?
In big movie productions and winning big contests.
Who are your sponsors and why are they good?
Quiksilver,Red Bull, Salomon, Nike 6.0, Sno!Zone, TSA, Red Protection.
What words of advice could you give to aspiring young British snowboarders waning to make snowboarding a career?
Try really hard and it will pay of in the end. Also go to comps, that helped me.
Where is your favourite place to shred?
At the moment it is Laax, but Breckenridge was really fun.
Which Pro Snowboarders do you respect?
Travis Rice and David Benedek.

Thursday, May 7, 2009

BSA Development Team Rider (UK) Emily Park announced Norquay winner for MGT Academy












After shredding hard at the Norquay MGT camp in Banff Canada in April 2009. Emily Park impressed the Pros enough to be selected for the elite MGT Academy. The top international riders included living legend of female shred Tara Dakides and the firmly established pro Leanne Pelosi.

BSA Development Team Rider (UK) Emily Park was chosen from 47 female riders. Kallie Murray was the second rider also picked for the academy.

Not only is Emily Park a talented and stylish snowboarder, she also has some journalistic flair. For an article eloquently written by Emily describing her experiences at the Norquay camp click here for the SnowboardMagazine.Org link

All in session for the MGT Academy! Calculate the square root of a cab 540 or dial the molecular formula of 2 parts dedication and 2 parts raw talent. Say ‘yes’ if you’re present! The MGT Academy is a fast(er) track to a snowboard career. The program is designed to select one promising MGT camper and place them under the tutorial wing of the MGT pro coaches to give a head start on pursuing a snowboard career in 2010.

The MGT Academy Graduate will receive fresh gear, access to some inaccessible contests and photo shoots…. tools needed to help you gain the experience and meet the people than can set your course for shredology.

It’s public school fool! Anyone can enroll in the MGT Academy and have their shot. All you need to do is register for an MGT Snowboard Camp this winter and be placed under the watchful eye of our MGT faculty members (err…coaches). 2 campers will be chosen from each winter camp to make the honor roll and be eligible to win the top prize. Towards the end of the winter semester, our honorary snow scholars will make a final presentation as to why they should graduate with top honors from the MGT Academy. The top graduate will then be chosen and presented with fresh gear, a travel budget and access to many snow experiences for 2010. (Source www.mgtsnowboardcamp.com/)


Check out MGTsnowboardcamp.com for more details


Here at BSA we wish Emily every success for her snowboarding future as we know she has the talent and dedication to go far


Saturday, May 2, 2009

BSA Development Team Rider (NZ) Interview: Adam Shaw







BSA Development Team (NZ) Rider Interview : Adam Shaw

Hometown?

Mt maunganui , nz

Use 3 words to describe what snowboarding means to you

Fun, progression and good times

Where is your favourite place to ride and why?

Remarkables New Zealand because it has a sick park and good free riding, and all my friends are always shredding there

What trick gives you the most pleasure?

Switch bs 5

What are your future goals within snowboarding?

Personal progression, and would love to make some money out of it one day

What, in your opinion, would make the snowboarding world better ?
More and more snow. if there was more money in the New Zealand snow industry, and probably if eveything wasn't so corporate

Today Adam Shaw is feeling... a little hung over

Do you have any random words of wisdom?
Have fun ,fuck all the bull shit in life., just go shred. There's nothing better

Watch out for more news on Adam this coming season in New Zealand...

NEWS UPDATE: ADAM SHAW has joined the Bataleon Snowboards NZ team. Congratulations to Adam!


Kiwi Bataleon rider Adam Shaw from Cleay Perham on Vimeo.







Watch out for Adam in NZ this coming season...

Thursday, April 23, 2009

More Good Times you say….hell yeah!
























MGT Camp, Norquay 2009!


More Good Times you say….hell yeah!

Words by Emily Park






I’d been pretty much crossing off the days on the calender and counting down to April 4th all season. Using it as excuse not to go big I’m ashamed to admit…but I wanted to be fighting fit ready to ride with MFR, Raewyn Reid, Leanne Pelosi, Robin Van gyn and Tara Dakides! What a line up! MGT was coming to Mt Norquay, Banff, AB. I couldn’t pass up the chance to ride with some of the worlds top female pros and take some box tricks to the rails! These were the girls who were gonna give me the push I needed.

Heading up the camp was “fellow Brit” Leanne Pelosi (born in Wales then moved to Canada when she was 2). Outnumbered by the 50 Canadians it was like my first day of school all over again. It was a beautiful bluebird day and the first real scorching spring day of the season. I was really pleased to be in Leanne’s group and after a couple fun buttery tripod and nose block warm up runs we hiked a box till lunch. We got all jumpy in the afternoon and Leanne’s tip to pop later off the tail cleaned up my back 3s a treat!

I was gutted Norquay park didn’t feature a down rail so as it turned out the scariest part of the weekend was sitting on the knuckle of the XL jump and having Tara, Leanne, Robin and Bev jump over our heads!! It was brilliant to see the pros throw down and see Tara bust out her signature backflip!

We got to see Robyn’s bum with a back board to moonie! Ha ha ha! …and athough I didn’t get to see Raewyn grease it up on the boxes or MFR in ‘RL’, Bev Vuilleumier definitely had more than enough steeze to make up for it! She went on one of the MGT camps before becoming pro, proof that it can be done!

Overall I guess what made it for me was to see 50+ girls hanging out in the park, all having ‘more good times’, giving their best, smiling and slamming. The line ups were long but the vibes were great and the music was cranking…mostly cheesy 80’s pop! Props to Katiie Fagan who was getting everyone amped! That girl rocks!!


Thanks to Leanne and Joanna Majcherkiewicz for bringing MGT to the Bow Valley, hooking everyone up with some great stash and kicking off spring with a spark! I made some new friends and have a new hunger to try new stuff and eat lots of steeze burgers! See you next year…that’s if u don’t bring the camp to UK snowdomes before then!…I’ll be looking for more good times this summer for sure!


My friend Sam took the photos. Not bad for someone in a neck brace on codeine!…(back on the board soon girl x).


www.mgtsnowboardcamp.com

Sunday, April 19, 2009

If Desiree Melancon was President she would make everything illegal legal





Desiree Melancon is part of the new breed of talented female snowboarders to hit the limelight. She rides rails with style & finesse. BSA asked Desiree some questions on a hangover day...




Hometown? riverside, California



Use 3 words to describe your last shred trip: icy, beer, chubby


If you had a superpower what would it be? to fly.


What's your most accomplished snowboarding trick you like to throw down? carving


What word do you say most often? "fuckkkkkkkkk"


Your favourite music to listen to whilst riding? the Beatles

If you were president, what would you try to change in the world? i would make everything illegal legal.

Which snowboarder do you find attractive both for their riding skills & good looks? hahaha jesus i am not answering this.

You're supported by Holden Outerwear (Mikey Leblanc's company) What do you like about Mikey and his company & which item of Holden outerwear is your favourite? Mikey is amazing to me. he's a friend. He took me under Holden's wing when i was coming up and it was the best thing ever. i owe Mikey tons. then Holden is just the sweetest company ever. so i back it super hard. my items of favorite are the pants. and the shirt and hoodie designs. i like simple drawings.


Today Desiree Melancon is feeling...? hungover but excited.
BSA would like to thanks Desiree for answering these questions. PS. We think one of Desiree's accomplished tricks is a solid & stylish frontboard. However, we are pretty sure her carving is top notch too

Saturday, April 11, 2009

Passion, Courage & Moments describe Priscilla Levac's relationship with snowboarding

photo: Crispin Cannon Photo: Crispin Cannon





Hometown? WHISTLER. BC
Describe your relationship with snowboarding using just 3 words PASSION-COURAGE-MOMENTS
What initial steps did you take to make snowboarding your career? I RODE EVERY SINGLE DAY. I WAS GOOD AT DREAMING ABOUT EVERYTHING I WANTED TO HAPPEN, AND I STARTED ENTERING LOCAL CONTESTS, I EVENTUALLY WON A BUNCH..
You founded Cilla female base layer company. Can you explain the ethos behind the products? I WAS TIRED OF THE BORING FIRST LAYERS OUT THERE SO THREE YEARS AGO (WHEN I BROKE MY LEG) I DECIDED TO MAKE ANOTHER ONE OF MY DREAMS COME TRUE. CILLA IS A FASHIONABLE AND FUNCTIONAL FIRST LAYER COMPANY FOR GIRLS. IT OFFERS A VARIETY OF TOPS AND BOTTOMS TO KEEP US WARM AND LOOKING GREAT ON THE HILL. SOME OF THE TOPS ALSO HAS A WATER REPELLENT BAND AT THE BOTTOM WHICH STICKS OUT OF OUR JACKET AND LOOKS FUN WITHOUT HAVING TO DEAL WITH WET AND FROZEN BUMS. NOW CILLA TURNED OUT TO BE MORE THAN FIRST LAYERS, SOME WEAR IT TO YOGA, AT THE GYM, AS STREET WEAR, AND EVEN TO THE BAR! I LITERALLY LIVE IN THEM MYSELF! IT IS SO COMFORTABLE THAT TO ME WEARING JEANS IS A TORTURE NOW! Check out http://www.cilla.ca/ for more details
What are you favourite riding tracks to listen to? I LISTEN TO "DEER TICK" ALLLLL THE TIME RIGHT NOW.
You have been riding for a while now. What progression in female snowboarding have you experienced up to the present day? THERE'S A LOT MORE STYLE AND CONTROL, I GET REALLY IMPRESSED BY THE GIRLS NOW.
What's the best advice someone has ever given to you? NEVER RESIST WHAT IS, TO POINT MY BOAT DOWNSTREAM IN ANY GIVEN SITUATION AND GO WITH THE FLOW.
Today Priscilla Levac is feeling...? TRULY HAPPY.
Bonus BSA question: Where would you like to see yourself 10 years from now? LIVING IN THE PRESENT MOMENT, BE BALANCED, AND TRULY HAPPY. I ALSO WANT TO TEACH 'RAW FOOD', I BELIEVE RAW FOOD CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE WORLD.

Saturday, April 4, 2009

Does Hampus Mosesson choose sex over snowboarding?








Hampus Mosesson
Occupation: PRO SNOWBOARDER
Known to go big and push limits in the backcountry or at a competition, this Swedish rider refuses to 'huck and spin' his tricks to win a contest. 'I try to make it not look like a videogame.'

Hometown? Frösön, Sweden

Use 3 words to describe your current relationship with snowboarding.
Fun, Work, Stressful


If you could be invisible for one day, what would you do? Get a starmap in Hollywood and see my favourite famous girls get dressed or whatever their doing by the time i get there..
What could the snowboarding world do without? Lots of shit, jocks, 4 jumps in a row, judges, well in one short word contests.
If you could slap anybody in the world really hard in the face, with no consequences, who would it be and why? This guy that made this one girl feel really bad, u wouldn't know him so ill pick a snowboarder instead. Mitch Reed.
Which female snowboarder do you find particularly attractive (for her snowboarding as well as looks) ? Fuck me.. I guess my younger love, Victoria Jealouse
Today, Hampus Mosesson is feeling...? Lost and confused. Big time.
Who are your sponsors and what's good about them?
Omatic-Just because its a sick family company, Quiksilver-They give me a big paycheck every month and have sick clothes, Monster-They make me wanna drink their drinks with alcohol, Union-Best binders out there, Neff-Word, Grenade-They make bombs.
Can you give BSA some random words of your wisdom for the day? Think through everything u do before u do it and don't look back after its done. I think i messed up on that one a couple of days ago...
Bonus question: Do you think snowboarding is more fun than sex? If i could only snowboard myself without filming or anything i would for sure pick snowboarding. Sex gets old. But as for now... Yeah, sex..
BSA Snow thanks Hampus for taking the time to answer these questions

Thursday, April 2, 2009

Michaela Davis Meehan Rider Interview BSA Development Team (Australia)


Image by TimLloydphoto.com

























Michaela Davis Meehan
Michaela is a crazy girl with crazy abilities so expect to see big things from her on the Swatch TTR World Tour.
Age: 17


Michaela unfortunately had to pull out of the recent 6star TTR Roxy Chicken Jam held at Mammoth California as she bruised her heel after knuckling one of the jumps in practice. We wish Michaela a speedy recovery back to full fitness.

Michaela Davis Meehan

Hometown Newcastle


Use 3 words to describe what snowboarding means to you fun, good times


Where is your favourite place to ride and why? perisher because all my mates are there and i know my way around..most of the time..it might not have the best snow all the time but its my home mountain n i love it.


What trick gives you the most pleasure? back 3 tail


What are your future goals within snowboarding? just have a good time and hopefully have no injuries


What, in your opinion, would make the snowboarding world better ? its pretty good the way it is now


Today Micheala Davis Meehan is feeling..... relaxed


Do you have any random words of wisdom? go with the flow


Micheala's TTR Rider Profile


PS. Michaela is the sister of BSA Dev. Team (Australia) Patrick Davis - Meehan, it was Michaela that suggested her brother as a suitable candidate. Check out Patrick's BSA interview here

Tuesday, March 31, 2009

BSA Snow Development Team (UK) finalised











This carefully selected development team is tasked with helping to develop BSA globally within their specified region.


These snowboarders are dedicated international snow addicts. They are all keen on FUN and have specialist talents.


BSA Development Team (United Kingdom)



(left to right on image) Martin Robertson (Newtonmore) Emily Park (Trowbridge) Nathan Onions (Braknell) Samantha Rogers (Braknell) Dean Horsfield (Accrington)


Keep checking the site for updates on all these talented British snowboarders BSA Snow has also completed BSA Development Teams for Australia, Canada & New Zealand.


Recent BSA Global Snow News articles include Pro rider interviews with Mikey Leblanc (USA), Raewyn Reid (Canada), Erin Comstock (USA), Hampus Moseson (Sweden)




"BSA Snow is keeping the true spirit of snowboarding alive" (Eddie Spearing) British Snowboard Association Founder 1988 — 2004


BSA aims to relieve symptoms of snow addiction by providing the rehab guest (BSA friend) with Global Snow News, Images, Video footage and FUN


BSA (UK) Development Team Rider Martin Robertson Big Bear California Park laps video footage: http://vimeo.com/3683281

Snowboarding means Freedom, Creativity & Aggression to Mikey Leblanc





Mikey LeBlance has been featured on over 10 major magazine covers, Ranked #1 in media exposure for the year of 2002 by TransWorld Surf Business & featured in Amped 2 video game. Mikey is an artist, actor, writer, poet, athlete, scholar and entrepreneur
Hometown?
Topsham, Maine, USA now living in Portland, OR, USA
Use 3 words to describe what snowboarding means to you.
Freedom Creativity Aggression
You've been snowboarding for quite a few years now, what have you seen change within the industry that has been good and bad?
To me “the industry” means the business. I think right now its corporate as hell which means someone is attempting to control something or make it plan able. Snowboarding at its roots is not a plan able thing, its a way to be free and react creatively, so the corporate thing can never capture that. The big companies are doing their best to make it HUGE, and that’s fine. But we need small ones to reflect what the heart of its about too.

It was all heart in the late 80’s and early 90’s, tons of small brands and a tone of energy. The last 4 years or so have been kinda wack to me. Still fun at its roots, but I am talking business wise. From the companies that dominate to how they run their pro teams and treat their riders like shit. And also video and magazines are to blame, on mass they have failed in representing the kids perspective and the energy and feeling they have for life and snowboarding, BUT there are some that are good. And there IS a new crop of pros and ams coming up that will be calling bullshit on this and not taking the attempted control of what they love so well. And of course the kids as well that are not pro and ams as well... So things will be changing back to something more “core” for lack of a better word I think.And the good and bad part, I am not sure about good and bad, its just about balance.


What is your opinion on the snowboarding & the Olympics?

I think its cool. I cant wait to watch the half pipe.

What words of wisdom do you have for aspiring snowboarders wanting to carve a career out of snowboarding?
Snowboard a lot, work HARD in the summer so you can move somewhere and ride all winter. Be driven to get better and ride hard. Also be realistic and honest with yourself. Don’t let people tell you what you are or if you can “make it”, look and tell yourself if you have it. If you think you do, ride more and meet people. Show them and don’t tell them how good you are. Show them by riding amazing film some nice stuff, shoot some nice pictures... Also align yourself with people with similar goals, that push you. Like riders that will wake up at 5am to go get first tracks, and filmers and photogs that’s are good and motivated.
Who are your sponsors and why are they good?
RIDE- because they let me do what I do
DVS- they back me 100%, and I get say in what they do in snow too
MATIX- they are 100% real people
HOLDEN- I own this company
CELTEK- Eric and BJ Lienes own this and they are a great company with the realest intentions for business and snowboarding
COAL- Because they are hands off and make awesome hats
We think you have a great attitude towards the snowboarding world. Who do you think has a great attitude?
Devun Walsh, MFM, NICO DROZ, Gigi, Nicolas Mueller, Jeremy Jones (extreme), Travis Rice, Scotty Wittlake, Keagan Valika, Cale Zima, LNP, Darrel Mathes, Desiree Melancon, Matty Ryan, Airblaster dudes, Celtek clan, Ashbury dudes, Pat Bridges, Jake Blauvelt, Terje, Ingemar, the list goes on,
If you had to take one thing to a desert island that you had to spend the rest of your life on. What would it be?
No regrets for what I left behind.
What trick whilst snowboarding give you the most pleasure?
BS 180
Bonus BSA question: What are your thoughts on England?

Its a place I need to see much more of.




BSA Snow thanks Mikey for taking the time answer these questions.

Monday, March 30, 2009

Roxy Queen of Shred Erin Comstock says Backside 180's are amazing


The 2006/2007 season was one of Erin’s most successful. She was filmed for two snowboarding flicks: Runway Film’s “La La Land” and Roxy’s first-ever all-women’s ski and snowboard team film “Labor of Love.” Erin has also been featured in the Vans movie, “A Lucid Dream,” the Park City movie “City. Park City,” and Misschief Films “Ro Sham Bo.”

Hometown? Salt Lake City, Utah




Use 3 carefully selected words to describe what snowboarding means to you. Free, aggressive, Mental




What, in your opinion, would make snowboarding better ? I think snowboarding could be made better if people could appreciate other peoples way of expressing themselves. I feel like to many people talk shit on other people. Thats just life though..




Where do you see snowboarding, particularly female snowboarding, in say 10 years time? Hahaha well look back 10 years and a girls video part now could totally be a legit video part in Mack Dawg 10years ago. So I guess I will put it out there and say the same for the female riders in 10 years




Who is your favourite rider and why? Difficult question. I really appreciate all my friends and their riding. But Heikki Sorsa is probably my favorite rider to watch. He is soooo talented. Burton obviously cant see that!!!




Describe THE perfect day... It can either be powder or Park I dont care, But an amazing days with all of my friends! I love riding with all my friends!


What trick when snowboarding gives you the most pleasure? I love a clean frontside 540, oh Backside 180's are amazing. Gosh I guess just landing a clean run no matter what the tricks but that gives me the most satisfaction!




Today Erin Comstock is feeling...? Today I am really excited! I have some good friends coming to Mammoth to shred with me this weekend and I am already here with my good friends! Life is good!




What advice do you have for young enthusiastic female snowboarders wanting to make a career out of snowboarding? Be smart about your career. Dont make it your life. Because there is more to life than snowboarding! And if something happens to where you cant ride you should be prepared for that. But embrace it as well. Snowboarding will give you so much in life! you get to travel and meet so many people! Also keep yourself healthy!




Who are your sponsors? ROXY, ROCKSTAR, VANS, PARK CITY MTN, ACTIVE




Bonus BSA question: What's the first random word that comes into your head right now? WOW
BSA thanks Erin for taking the time to answer the questions in this interview. PS. We agree that backside 180's are amazing!

Saturday, March 28, 2009

Charlotte Trundle BSA Snow Team (NZ) Boulder Rail Jam update
















Cricket Campus Rail Jam 2009 @ Boulder


Charlotte's words:


After driving two hours in my roommates Subaru WRX sti racing are other friends car I was happy to have made it to Boulder in one piece..Thank god I don’t know how fast miles an hour are..


I was slightly nervous after not riding for 3 weeks after an unfortunate glass to foot incident (costing $4000 American, in which I was sober) and the fact I had just removed my own stitches.

As we arrived in Boulder to go check out the set-up, this old man came up to me asking if I wanted to trade my dragon sunnies for rocks… I thought he is trying to trade me crack!! And started wondering in all my snowboard gear did I look like a crack-head??..



Later on I find out hippies try to trade gems and precious stones for things they want.
The set up was a street style down bar with creeper rail on either side, a street style down flat down and a ledge box, also with creepers with a 5 foot drop off it and off the side of the side rails they had air bags which hardly worked just incase you came off the rail early onto the concrete SKETCHY!!!


I am in the second heat, which was girls, and skiers the crowd watching is the biggest I have ever seen at a rail comp. My one problem with scaffolding even though I have done quite a few comps with it is I am so scared of heights, especially when the thing I am walking on it shaking and creaking.

My first hit was a disaster after not riding for three weeks I don’t pop enough onto the down bar enough and taco myself (great for the confidence and it hurt so much) but after that I start to get in a flow and land 50/50 front one off the down bar, 50/50 board slide on the down flat down and 50/50 front one and back one of the ledge (which is so sticky).



The girls where throwing down front side swivels on the down bar, front boards and stomping their stuff.



I waited anxiously for my name to be called for the finals as the competition was stiff at this point I was thinking about going for a beer as I was battered and bruised after all the slams and didn’t think I was going to make finals.



They call me name out and I make my way back up the scaffolding. In the finals I nearly landed a back 3 off the ledge I kept landing on my feet but sitting down, as it was such a big drop to an inch of snow on concrete. I landed 50/50 front board on the down flat down and a nose press back one on the ledge and a couple of other tricks I landed in qualifying. The other girls where killing it again so I had no idea what the judging was going to be like.



At prize giving I find out I came 2nd and I won an o-matic snowboard and a place to the finals, I was so stoked after riding for weeks.



I love to hate comps sometimes they go your way and sometimes they don’t but as long as you love snowboarding and riding with your friends that’s all that matters.



BSA Development Team (New Zealand) Rider Charlotte Trundle Interview:

Hometown


wanaka has been my home town for 5 years


Use 3 words to describe what snowboarding means to you
fun, friends, adrenaline


Where is your favourite place to ride and why?

snowpark nz because of the relaxed atmosphere, progressive creative features and all my friends ride there.


What trick gives you the most pleasure?


every trick i land which is new


What are your future goals within snowboarding?


try to stay injury free and get a video part in a snowboard movie


What, in your opinion, would make the snowboarding world better ?

no gapers, no spring break haha

Today Charlotte Trundle is feeling..... stoked because its snowing a lot and i am going to have an amazing powder day tomorrow


Do you have any random words of wisdom?

snowboard because you love it

BSA Rider update: Charlotte Trundle new sponsor: Charlotte signs with Betty Rides outerwear








Thursday, March 26, 2009

Snowboarding means Fun, Powder & Travel to BSA Development Team Rider (Australia) Patrick Davis-Meehan








BSA Development Team Rider Interview: Patrick Davis-Meehan
Hometown - Newcastle, Australia
Use 3 words to describe what snowboarding means to you - Fun, Powder, Travel
Where is your favourite place to ride and why? - Summit County Colorado, lots of friends here and great mountains.
What trick gives you the most pleasure? - Anything really smooth that i stomp, love backside spins.
What are your future goals within snowboarding? - Make Olympics for Halfpipe and shred for as long as possible.
What, in your opinion, would make the snowboarding world better ? - More parks like Whistler's Black park, where you need a pass to get in, so you don't get family's and punters riding through and standing on the knuckle etc.
Today Patrick Davis-Meehan is feeling.....? - So stoked! Went Cat skiing for the first time today at Tucker Mountain, it was amazing, i still have a high from it 5 hours later.
Do you have any random words of wisdom? - Be nice
BSA wishes Patrick every success for his snowboarding future. He has a great attitude to compliment his skills
Check out Patricks website here

Monday, March 23, 2009

Red Bull Skyscrapers winner Shayne Popisil says Snowboarding is always fun


Like most talented shredders from New Jersey, Shayne Pospisil relocated to Mammoth, CA and promptly took over the park.
Hometown?

Manasquan, New Jersey
You recently won the New York Red Bull Skyscrapers TTR event recently. Describe what the event was like and how you felt winning it.

The contest was pretty awesome being in Manhattan, NYC and right near home. I live an hour away so I had a ton of friends and all my family come up to watch so winning it was perfect. All in all Red bull did a great job with the event and setting all the athletes up with a sick hotel and accomodations and putting 50 grand up for first wasn't bad either. But it was one of the best contests i've ever been to and the crowd was awesome and besides the run in to the jump not being high enough it was a great contest.
Use 3 words to describe what snowboarding means to you?

Always fun times
You are from the States. What are the benefits and drawbacks (if any) being an American snowboarder?
We don't have to many drawbacks considering we have some of the best parks and all type of riding terrain in the world. But really i can't think of any drawbacks we americans have rite now. But how the world looks at Americans right now after Bush was president and the economy being so bad really doesn't make our reputation look that great so that would definitely be are drawback.

What are your future goals for your snowboarding career?

My goals are to keep riding hard and hopefully competing and winning contests for the next few years. I'd also like to film a solid video part one of these years and maybe get back into halfpipe and try to make a run at that...maybe not olympics but just get all my tricks back. But I definitely want to be in the top 10 in the world and just be super comfortable with my snowboarding.

In your opinion, what would make snowboarding (lifestyle, industry, sport) better?

Snowboarding could be better I guess if we had a bigger fan base and more people new about it like golf or basketball. Were athletes putting are body on the line every day and risking it all just to put on a good show and have fun and were getting paid nothing compared to golfers. So we definitely don't get enough recognition for what we do so hopefully people will start to realize how crazy snowboarding is and come check it out.

Who do you think will win the TTR World snowboard tour 2009 ?

Probably Shaun. I'd like to see Chaz take it but shaun's just too good. (NB: Peetu won)

What trick gives you the best feeling when you do it?

Lately it's been a switch backside five nose grab. That trip always gets me corked and upside down and feels really good.

Who are your sponsors?


Today, Shayne Pospisil is feeling....?

rejuvenated

Sunday, March 22, 2009

BSA Development Team riders Charlotte Trundle (NZ) & Owen Newman (Australia) qualify for Volcom PBRJ 2009 Invite only Finals Mammoth



Owen & Charlotte earn a much deserved spot at the Volcom Peanut Butter & rail jam chamionships final (Invite Only) to be held at Mammoth mountain in California 25th April 2009. Click here for more: PBRJ info

Watch out for these talented riders. BSA wishes them the best of luck at the finals and hopes they throw down and have fun!

For more images and information on BSA Development Team riders check out BSA snow & BSA images




















Thursday, March 19, 2009

Transworld Snowboarding Rookie of the Year 2009 Raewyn Reid on FUN



Name: Raewyn Reid
Birth date: January 12th, 1989
Following in the footsteps of Calgary native Leanne Pelosi, and under her care, Raewyn is the next to make a name for her self. True to form, she's a city rail specialist who's adept in the park, taken to filming, and grateful to be along for the ride


1. Hometown?
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
2. You recently won Transworld snowboarding Women's Rookie of the year 2009. How did you feel when you won & what do you think gave you the edge in winning that award in comparison to other Rookies?
I was really stoked for sure. I have a lot of respect for Transworld and I was so excited to even have been nominated, to win was just a plus plus really. Bev is so sick and one of my best friends, and Ellery kills it so hard in pipe so I think it must have been pretty close for sure. I guess my video part might have been the deciding factor but I think it was really anyones game.
3. What are you future goals within your blossoming snowboarding career?
I really just want to keep getting better, to me progression is the most important thing. I want to be really sick at rails, jumps, backcountry, park, everything. It would even be cool to be able to put down a decent halfpipe run one of these days. I have a lot of respect for well rounded riders and I think its so sick to be pushing snowboarding for snowboarding, not just snowboarding for rails or whatever you feel the most comfortable doing.
4. Women's riding has seen some huge progression over the last few years. What do you think has contributed to this?
I think it's just a drive to be better. It is still a pretty young sport in comparison to the mens side, and it is more competitive now than it has ever been. I also think that women's specific film projects like Misschief and Runway have played a huge role in this because before it was always women's video parts in mens movies, as opposed to putting out a sick all girls film. I think that the last four years have really put women's snowboarding into a league of its own.
5. Describe your last snowboarding session using just 3 words.
FUN, Powdery, awesome.
6. Who are your regular shred buddies & why do you like to ride with them ?
Leanne Pelosi, One life crew, all the Calgary kids. They are all super creative and fun to hang out with whether you are snowboarding or just cruising. Good people and lots of laughs, why not?
7. You are from Canada. What does it mean to be a Canadian snowboarder ?
I am very proud to be Canadian and I feel as though I am in good company. It means that you have to work hard and party harder!!
8. What friendly words of advice can you give to aspiring young female riders wishing to be successful at snowboarding?
Love what your doing and have fun, the rest should fall into place if it's meant to be. And take most things with a grain of salt because that's the best way to stay out of the bull shit, and that's the stuff will make you old and jaded.
9. Who are your sponsors?
10. Today Raewyn Reid is feeling....?
Stoked! Just got back from a super fun Powder trip, slept in late, and had breakfast waiting for me when I woke up.
BSA thanks Raewyn for taking the time to do this interview. We wish her the very best in her blossoming snowboarding career.

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

BSA (BritishSnowAddictions.com) has finalised a New Zealand Development Team.



This carefully selected development team is tasked with helping to develop BSA globally within their specified region.These snowboarders are dedicated international snow addicts.


They are all keen on FUN and have specialist talents.


BSA Development Team (New Zealand)


Adam Shaw

Maia Stier

Jay Walsh

Charlotte Trundle

Guy McCully

Christy Prior



Keep checking the site for updates on all these talented Kiwi shredders.


BSA is also in the process of completing a BSA Development Team for Australia, Canada & of course the United Kingdom.


BritishSnowAddictions.com aims to relieve symptoms of snow addiction by providing the rehab guest (BSA friend) with Global Snow News, Images, Video footage and F.U.N.


Recent BSA Global Snow News articles include Pro rider interviews with Andrew Hardingham (Canada), Raewyn Reid (Canada), Stef Zeestraten (NZ) & Shayne Popisil (USA)


BSA = FUN


Adam Bowcutt

PR Director @ BSA


BSA = Online Rehab Clinic

Monday, March 16, 2009

Passion inspires happiness says Kiwi Pro Rider Stef Zeestratten


Photo: Lee Ponzio

Photo: Courtesy of stefzeestratten.com
Photo: Courtesy of stefzeestratten.com
Stef 'Dutchy' Zeestratten is a stylish and talented rider from New Zealand. He is very passionate about snowboarding and will go far. Stef is one of the laid back and friendly NZ shredders who are currently at the forefront of Kiwi snowboarding.


1.Hometown?


Wanaka (winter nz) Kaikoura (surfing between seasons) and no fixed address for the rest of the year!

2. We hear you're a sick 'Kiwi' shredder. What does it mean to bepart of the NZ snowboarding scene?

Ha thanks!! Its a privilage in New Zealand as we have a really laid back scene, that is just focused on one thing and that’s getting everyone out there having a good time!!!

3. Use 3 words to describe why you love snowboarding...

Freedome, Adrenalin , Friends

4. What are your future snowboarding career goals?

Keep discovering New things within the sport and the lifestyle that comes with it and shred as long and hard as i can!!!!

5. Who are your shred buddies? and why do you like riding with them?

My shred buddies Range from my daily Kiwi Crew of peeps like Robett H,Nick H and B, Mich B and Will J, Shelly G to the lost friends that I keep running into around the world! Like today I had a sick day getting creative with the one and only Tyler Chorlton. These Peeps along with many more are always happy, fun to ride with,creative and make for an interesting and usually unpredictable day!!!

6. What would make snowboarding, in general, better?


If all these wonderful people that make snowboarding possible,(resorts, media, shops and snowboarders........) would work together more to make this sport available to more people as an alternative to soccer and rugby!

7. Today Stef Zeestraten is feeling...?

Like I'm in a great Food coma reflecting on another epic days shredding!

8. What tricks are you playing with (or trying to perfect) at the moment?

Well this Season Ive only been shredding Pow so switch pow lines have been keeping me busy, until today where i had one of a few days in the park so far this season and everything from methods airs to switch shifty 900s were keeping me entertained!

9. What are your thoughts on the ever increasing number of comps worldwide? Is this a good thing or not?

Well I've always loved Comps traveling to them and riding with friends that happen to be pushing and inspiring you to go bigger and do better, but this season i have taken a 6 month break to go back to why i started. The simplicity of pow riding and the carefree but unpredictable season i have had reminds me that there should be a good balance if your on the competition circuit chasing that money!!

10 Who are your sponsors?


BSA Bonus questions: Will you share some of your wise words of wisdom...

Passion Inspires Happiness




BSA thanks Stef for taking the time to answer the questions in this interview

Friday, March 13, 2009

ANDREW HARDINGHAM: F**k the Olympics, F**k Visa & McDonalds & f**k the F.I.S.

















Andrew is a super talented individual. It may not be actual talent, it may just be the lack of fear to try anything. The end result is that Andrew delivers, it may be pooh in a box or a 100ft rock ride or a narrow Avalanche escape. With Andrew anything is possible. (source: ridesnowboards.com)

Hometown?
My home town is Banff Alberta Canada. A beautiful little spot filled with snow angels and gingerbread men. Right in the heart of the Canadian rocky mountains. I like the Canadian Rockies more than the USA’s Rockies because our Rockies look way bigger. Our valleys are much lower altitude so the mountains look much more bad ass. If you’ve ever been to Colorado you'll know that they are more about bragging about the altitude of their towns rather than the vertical of their mountains. i like my mountains to have vertical. It’s better for riding and just makes the mountains look rad! However they probably have more red blood cells than me which makes them stronger humans. That’s cool too i guess.
What does being Canadian mean to you?
Well I love where i live in the world. BC and the western stretch of Alberta is great. There is so much to do here because of the mountains, plus the continental divide (Atlantic-pacific) is only 5 kms from my house which is the BC-Alberta boarder so i can fish for BC salmon without driving too far. Love the fly fishing! But as far as being a Canadian I’m on the fence. It’s a great country to belong too when you take away the dick sucking we do to the Americans. It seems like all of our large business does whatever the big spender asks of us. Take the oil sands in northern Alberta. Worst thing in the world for the environment. polluting our water and land at a catastrophic rate, creating something future generation can't even use and will have to work to clean up for decades if not centuries... why? Because the Americans want our oil. Fucking pisses me off. I guess it’s just beautiful capitali$m in motion though. What can I say? I am a man with different ideas about what’s important I guess. Plus i have always said that it wasn't my country that made me the man i am today, it’s the region i live in. "The Rockies and interior BC mountains”. It is here i learned to be the man I am today. Appreciating the land and all it has to offer. it’s what made me realize that life is more important than money and i would rather be poor as shit and living the life of a retired man while I’m young (it’s what I do now) than working my youth away so that i can have a sweet leather couch i never get to sit in and an awesome boat that chicks dig only they don't dig wrinkly old retired balls so what’s the point. I’ll probably have to work till I’m 90 but who cares right? There are so many different kinds of Canadians. I'm not a nationalistic person and I love so many other countries and people so I'm kinda like “what evs”.
Have you ever been to the UK?
I’ve never been there but I’m itching to go one day. I keep looking for a good reason or rich woman who will use my body in exchange for a two way ticket but I haven’t found it or her yet. But believe it or not I absolutely love the English chicks. Something super sweet about their style.
4. You were injured pretty badly recently. Describe what happened.
A) I smashed my pelvis like a glass bottle dropped on concrete. They cut me wide open and went in elbow deep. I think they dropped a pair of scissors and sowed me up because it still hurts. But the doctor says that's normal.It was a huge jump that no one wanted to hit so Dustin Craven and I stepped up to bat and we both got sent into space off this thing, Seriously huge. Like 50 feet high and 100 feet long.We shaved the kick down and the next day. A few peeps strait aired it and then I opened it up with a back 540 and stomped the shit out of her. So I was all stoked. Then on the second hit I tried a front 720 under flip but didn’t flip enough and whammy! It was broken pelvis time. Oopsthe ski patrol sexually assaulted me because I think they touched my bum then when I got to the hospital there was like 10 female nurses and doctors and they striped me nude and were all moaning and growing and looking at my special place. Then one of them got some balls and grabbed my cock and shoved a catheter in my pee hole. She didn’t warn me or anything but I wasn’t mad because I was way too turned on. Sexy shit I tells ya. Later that week after surgery they wanted to take it out and I wouldn’t let them because I had grown quite fond of peeing into a bag and never having to go to the toilet. Eventually I took it out myself. Gross feeling but again it was kinda sexy.
5. TYP (Throw Your Panties) is an insane film. What was its purpose? If any.
A) well, the story goes as such…."Throw your Panties" (TYP) is a big time movie i made in hopes of helping my father (whom owns a toilet paper factory) make enough money to buy a whole turkey at Christmas time. the goal of the film is to create a film so insane it will turn people’s brains into shit and i think that will be good business for my dad... he's had rough times ever since the green movement and everyone started washing their ass in the sink to save on TP. he almost blew his brains out when that bitch Cheryl crow told the world to only use only 1-2 squares per wipe..... But things are on the up-and-up since the release of the film. Toilet paper stock is at an all time high and my dad just dropped in on a Christmas paper role that features Santa Claws and Mrs. Claws on every square. It turns your ass green and red but you feel like Picasso every pull. i think that if the movie keeps selling the way it is and people keep eating junk food the way they do, we shouldn’t be hungry at Christmas. Throw your Panties will turn your brains to shit…. Guaranteed.I also was getting sick of the repetitive way snowboard films were made. The never changing porno films. Personally, I was craving more personality and substance and finally after bitching about it there was only one thing left to do and that was make my own film and do it my way. I love fucking around and fucking with other people. My buddy Joey and I edited TYP so no one knew what it was going to turn out like. Often the riders would drop by my place for a look. I'd show them a few sections but never anything put together. I wanted the world to see that it doesn’t have to be snowboard porno all the time and that we can embrace a different style of shred flick. It’s OK to have the old school style film out there just not 30 of them with no sign of anything else. Anyway, everyone loved it except for a few assholes and soccer moms that gave it to their kids at Christmas as stocking stuffers. We marketed them as “a great stocking stuffer for kids”, Oops!
6. We hear you will be producing a new film 'Thunder Mouth'. What do you have in store for the viewer this time?
A) All I can say about thunder mouth is get ready to have your brains turned to shit… wait that’s last year’s marketing campaign. This year we want to make thunder mouth so good that it will force the action movie world to change their ways. With thunder mouth I want to push the joke to a new level. It should offend some people. That’s how you know you’re doing a good job. See people who make everyone happy are just plain lame. That or they are only doing it to pay rent. Because realistically if you’re out there making everyone happy than they’ll only ever be marginally happy or marginally satisfied with the product. I feel that the fans of the films should be really fucken happy and love the shit out of it. Or ells hate the shit out of it. That means your sticking to your guns as a producer/director. Principles are important and compromise is something corporations do to sell more things at walmart. This is also a big part of the reason I pay for most of the film myself. The sponsors that do support us do a great job; they all help out more than they need too. The nice thing about the sponsors of this film is they all know I'm going to do it my way and none of them have any problems with that. They just give me what I need and say “can’t wait to see the finished product”. For me a good sponsor is one that if you happen to get crazy drunk in front of and pull your dick out and piss all over the table. They won’t boot you off the team. They’ll just laughs and tell the story the next day. They might even encourage your behaviour. That’s what my sponsors are like. Some of my sponsors might even be the ones pissing on the table before me… we get along good and they trust me so it’s a good relationship. That’s how it should be and ill always take less money to have the financial supporters believe in my film. What more can a director ask for, really? I never got sponsored because I might be a marketable name like Shawn white. Pepsi will never hire me. And I will never have a clothing line in Target. I don’t care if you give me a million bucks. I’d rather be fucking poor than lose my peers respect.
7. Use 3 words to describe yourself:
A) Relaxed, political, independent
I think the first two are an oxymoron but I like morons and oxen so I'm cool with it.
8. Describe your relationship with snow and snowboarding
A) it’s an interesting one I think because I started when the sport was still young. The cool thing about that is snowboarding in Canada started right here in Banff and Calgary. The first snowboarders in Canada were from Calgary and the first hill to let them ride was Sunshine Village 15 minutes from Banff. It’s where I do a good part of my filming and shooting these days. I love it there. Another interesting thing is my father worked at sunshine as the outdoor manager wile snowboarding was just getting started in the early 80’s. He always told me stories about how snowboarders would come and ask if they could ride the hill. Apparently he was one of the first people to let them ride the lifts. At first they weren’t allowed but because they were so keen my pops told me he would let them hike. He thought they were goof balls and didn’t see the sport as something that would go anywhere but he did admire their persistence so he told them to stay out of people’s way and they could shred the hill.As the sport grew up it got so much more resistance from dumb shit ski racers and ski associations that thought it was impure. They ignorantly thought snowboarders were bad news that were always drunk and scraped the snow off the mountains. I started riding in 1992 so I still got some of that attitude. It actually made the sport way cooler because we had to stick together and rise above the ignorance. Until around 1996-7 there were still two sides. You were ether a skier or a snowboarder and there was no in between. We would have skier vs. boarder fights in school and shit. It was rad! We hated jocks for the longest time but now it seems like half the snowboard populous are jocks. Whatever though, the sport changed and I watched it change and it’s really interesting to witness. I'm just glad I got to see a few different sides of the sport I love. Now days most of the new freestyle kids don’t know shit about how original the sport once was. They only know the world of soccer moms and Olympic tryouts as if that competition actually matters. The Olympics don’t mean shit for snowboarding. It only means WAY more money for corporate fools that want to exploit the sport. Sure it’s great that my parents see snowboarding as a real sport but I’d rather they think its crap and go back to the day when only people who loved riding did it. I’ll always accept this sport the way it is. Just don’t expect me to support things like the Olympics. Fuck the Olympics. Fuck Visa and McDonalds and fuck the F.I.S. and Olympic committee.
9. What would make snowboarding (the industry, lifestyle and sport) better, in your opinion?
A) Taking it away from the Olympics, Strait up. It’s insane that the biggest money making event in the world won’t pay their athletes a dime. Every single Olympic comity member makes mad loot. All the secretary’s that type memos make a salary. All the couches make money, even the food runners and bars in town during the show make money, but the only people you can’t replace are made to feel guilty to even ask for financial help. Then the countries are criticized for not supporting the athletes. Why the hell should a country pay that cost when the Olympics should be paying the stars of the show? Every single athlete whether they win or lose are out there working hard as hell. I know of athletes that had to do bottle drives to afford their plane tickets to the Olympics. They wanted to go as independent athletes so they didn’t have to do the corporate dic suck dance and wear all the gear and logos most athletes are forced to do and wear. I think it’s insane that a scenario like this can even exist. Take this for example. Danny Cass is sponsored by Libtech and Grenade clothing and gloves for the entire 4 years it takes him to train and get to the level it takes to qualify and compete at an Olympic level. When he finally gets to go he has to change all the sizes of the logos on his gear so that there virtually impossible to see on camera. Yet while he does his run a VISA logo is placed in the bottom right corner of the screen and some other financial institute or crap fast food company in the left. Two companies that had no part in him getting there or supporting him in any way yet they somehow have a right to advertise during Danny’s run. Of course everyone in the world is programmed to reply to my theory with this “but the Olympics bring people and countries together. Isn’t that more important?” this is what the Olympic comity has in-doctored into the worlds heads so that they can continue having $60,000 dollar lunches, selling the world’s best athletes images, persona's and talents for millions of dollars and keep running the largest profiting event on earth without losing a dime of money on talent. Congratulations world because we’ve created an unstoppable monster.
10. Who are your sponsors?
A) Ride snowboards & bindings, WESC clothing, Drop gloves, Vonzipper, Bruxe bags, Eesa firstlayer, Rudeboys shop, and etnies/32.
Bonus question: Any famous last words of wisdom?
You bet I do! If snowboarding truly is your passion than keep it real and never let your values be compromised. I started entirely on my own when it was still referred to as a “soon to die fad”. Now i want to maintain my own direction. Snowboarding is more than just a sport. It’s a creative outlet to explore and then contribute back into. Anyone out there can help mould it into what they want it to be. It can be so much more than just sliding down a hill on plastic. Try to be creative with it by looking at it differently than the minions/masses and I’m sure you’ll find something more than just and activity. I did and now it’s a huge part of many areas of my life. I make films about it, take photos of it, write stories inspired by it and it keeps me busy on a cold Friday afternoon. It also still scares the shit out of me and challenges me every time I strap on. So it’s not as simple a sport as so many out there. It also is one of the only sports in the world where you can exist without competing, truly unique.
BSA would like to thank Andrew for taking the time to answer these questions. We also wish him a speedy recovery to full health after his recent hip fracture injury.

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

BSA Development Team Rider (NZ) Adam Shaw says 'Snowboarding is always fun'





Adam Shaw is a relaxed & friendly Kiwi snowboarder with a sleek shred style. He is based in Queenstown NZ for the southern hemisphere winter & is currently jibbing up a storm in the popular European resort of Mayrhofen, Austria.
Adam recently sent us an update on what he's been up to:
Adam Shaw: 'what up'

"On the past Saturday the 7th of March 2009 Me and my
friend Addi from Iceland travelled a short distance from Mayrhofen to a resort
called Solden., where we me up with Addi's friends that run the park
there.


That night we went out for a few good Austrian beers and a bit of
Jagermeister and had a look at the Solden night life. First we went to an apres
ski bar and had a couple but then we couldn't take the shocking music any more
so we went to a club called Party House, it was insane. There were little kids
running around, drunk as they were passing out all over the place, some of them
looked like they were 12. Some funny stuff was going on. I've never seen kids so
young in a bar, but you only have to be 15 to drink in Austria. But was a fun
night.


Went back to the shapers flat and crashed out on the rock hard floor.
Best sleep ever. Yeah!!!
First thing the next morning we got ready and
cruised up the mountain and did a massive run down to the park to hit up the
Rail Jam that was going on. It was a mellow fun session .


They where giving out a little cash for each good trick, but still some
cool things got thrown down. T he first session was on the down flat down box. I
earned my self a little bit buy doing a 5050 to MJ on the down. Always a fun
trick to do.
Then I did a cab 180 on to backside 180 switch
5050.


We cruised around for a little hitting up the whole park. Then they had
another little session on one of the small kikers. Everybody was throwing fun
tricks, crazy tweaks ,back flips and a whole lot more.


I wanted a bit more cash so Igot Addi to stand in the middle of the
jump holding his board upside down and I tail bonked it. I got some cash for it
too. Addi also earned him self a bit of cash by throwing a sick backside rodeo 7
on the kicker and some cool combos on the kink box.

All in all it was a sick day. Snowboarding is always
fun
. B.S.A represent. Yeah!!!


Cheers. Adam Shaw "
More BSA Development Team updates & Images soon...

Monday, March 9, 2009

I am a Snowboarder says Dick Schulze aged 62


Dick Schulze is what snowboarding is all about. Fun, Friends & Snow. He is 62 years young. Dick competes at the Burton Global Open Series events in the halfpipe. He also competes at various Boardercross events.
BSA has previously interviewed Dick. It can be read here (BSA Global Snow News)'Is Snowboarding Ageless?'
This follow up is a quick update on what Dick has been up to with his snowboarding since the BSA interview.
In Dick's own words:
At the Revolution Tour at Boreal, there were about 88 men in the boardercross. Course was challenging. I took the attached photo showing the start, which was two "swells" right out the gate. Only the top 32 advanced past the timed trials.Next week Friday I will be competing in the next round of the Revolution Tour boardercross at Mt Hood Meadows, Oregon
Yesterday I competed in the first round of the pipe competition in the Asian Open. There were 87 guys representing Japan, Korea, China, Finland and the USA. Many of the Japanese competitors and even some of the event staff remembered me from last year.

As last year, the Japanese competitors tend to be older than their European and American colleagues – there were a few teenagers and even a couple of preteens, but most were in their 20s and several were in their mid to late 30s.

The weather was awful. Pardon my use of the obscene R­word, but during the 45-minute practice it was (shudder) raining. All of us got very wet. Fortunately the rain had stopped by the time practice was over. Then when I was in the start gate for my first competition run, strapped in and ready to go with about three riders ahead of me, fog moved in and the competition came to a screeching halt because the fog was so thick the judges could not see the length of the pipe. After about 15 minutes the fog lifted enough that we could continue, and by my second run the weather was behaving itself reasonably well.

I did not advance to the second round, but I improved noticeably over Canada, and by mistake I did a new trick – switch alley-oop – that I have never been able to do before. Now I have two days of practice, then lunch with Agilent friend Kimihisa in Tokyo before I fly home.
Dick Schulze is a competitive, friendly, healthy and happy snowboarder. Remember, he is 62 years of age and still killing it! He is an inspiration to us all. BSA wishes Dick every success in his future snowboarding activities.





Sunday, March 8, 2009

Pro Snowboarder Johno Verity is Stoked to be British

Images courtesy of Animal, by Dan Milner










1. Hometown?


Chamonix France for the Winter, North Devon in the summer

2. What does it mean to be British?


Hopefully the ability to take the piss out of yourself. Cucumber sandwiches, lawns, tennis, Pimms. Fish and chips, East enders. Don't know what they all mean, but I'm stoked to be British.

3. You were caught in an avalanche and made a lucky escape recently. Describe what happened and how you felt.


I have snowboarded and Heli skiied in New Zealand before though not in the the Mt Cook area. We had been sitting in a remote hotel watching it snow for about 3 days waiting for a clear day so that we could fly. We were there filming with a production company that were making a show ironically about avalanches. When the weather cleared up it was pretty much perfect conditions for riding the snow was deep and very light as it had stayed cold.

We were riding down a fairy mellow run about 35 degrees, with nothing too technical down it which is why I thought it would be a good run to follow cam him (this is where one snowboarder rides down next to another one filming. He came in from my right and off a small drop, he landed about level with me, by this time I had a fair bit of speed to keep up with him though was concentrating more on keeping him in shot than what was going on around me, I knocked off some speed and remember being surprised with how much snow my board had kicked up, then I felt a huge force around me and I was swept off my feet as I broke up and started pulling speeding up. I was trying to see if there was any exit and was trying so hard to stand up and ride out but it was traveling too fast to do that so I just swam to stay on the surface. after about 20 seconds loads more snow came from behind which flipped me onto my front and then piled on top of me, I was holding my hand over my face and trying to keep and air pocket as I felt it get heavier and heavier and darker, I remember thinking this is it I'm going to die being buried in an avalanche.


It had all filled into a gully and I was pretty sure I was in the bottom of it. Luckily though the weight of the snow drove it and me down into the gully and as it was going so fast blasted me out over a lip, it took me another 2 or 3 hundred meters down, I had snow jammed into my mouth and throat, so I was hacking that out so try and get some air while I slid down that next face. It left me sitting on top of the snow about 700 meters down from where it started, I checked my camera which was still recording and pointed it at myself to get my reaction. It has made for pretty interesting viewing, couldn't have turned out any better for the production company.

I was panicking when I realized that i was caught in the slide. At first I was really just trying to work how how big it was. It was pretty difficult to work out. When I started to get buried I was really scared as I knew there was a gully below, these are very dangerous as they act as a terrain trap, if you are caught at the bottom of it and the snow pours in on top of you it can fill up very quickly. there were about 2 football fields of snow coming down on me they slabbed off at about 2-3 feet deep so it is very easy to fill a pit in no time at all. Any more than 2 meters and you are in serious trouble, even if people find you at record breaking speed digging down that far will take a long time.


4. Use 3 words to describe your last snowboarding trip


Powder, jumps, farts.

5. What are your future snowboarding goals?


I'd like to continue doing what I'm doing for a few more years, stay uninjured and land a double backflip bs 180 on film. Dom Harington does them and they look so rad.

6. What would improve snowboarding in general ? (The industry, sport, lifestyle)


More imagination and creativity. Natural lines, less trampoline style jumps.

7. Today Johno Verity is feeling ........?


A bit hungover with a sore knee that is getting better every day.

8. Who are your sponsors?



9. Any final thoughts or words of wisdom?


If you're not part of the solution you're part of the cure.


BSA would like to thank Johno for taking the time to answer these questions

Friday, March 6, 2009

Tim Lloyd is a Talented British Photographer: He Lives & Breathes Snow


TTR World No. 1 Peetu going big







Tim Lloyd






















Hometown

I’m born and raised in Chester, the northwest of England.
When did you start capturing snowboarding images professionally?

I’m a relatively new guy in the industry having only been taking photos for a couple of seasons now.
Describe your relationship with your camera and photography

I weighed my camera bag a couple of days ago - it was 14 kilos that day. The relationship between my camera gear and my body is not always a happy one!
Are you a bit of a snow addict?, if yes, please explain

If I wasn’t then I wouldn’t have chosen this profession! You really have to live and breathe snow....I spent 99 days in the UK last year with the rest being on the road in the mountains.
Describe your latest photoshoot adventure using 3 descriptive words

No worries mate.
How do you think the current global 'credit crunch' will affect your industry?


I hate the term ‘credit crunch’ and everything surrounding it. Luckily whilst in the mountains you have the ability to shut yourself off from media outlets back home. Snowboarders are quite a resilient bunch although lately the value of the pound is effecting how comfortably i can live on the road now. The ‘can’t afford to eat’ diet happens occasionally!
Where do you think action sports photography and snowboarding will be in the future?, say in 10 years from now

Shifty shifty back 180’s will win contests as opposed to switch back 12’s. People will realise the value of great photography.
What is your 'style' of photography?

I wouldn’t say I have a particular style as such. If i’m on my game and so are the riders i’m working with then cool images will be the outcome. My preference lies in the backcountry though but i’m sure everyone would say that!
What are you future goals? Professionally and personally?

I want to keep myself in the Snow business for many years to come. I want to continue travelling the world meeting new people and visiting new places whilst producing great photos.
Do you have any wise words of wisdom for enthusiastic photographers wanting to carve a successful professional career?

Obvious point first; Get out there and shoot as much as possible. Put yourself in the positions where you are meeting, riding and shooting snowboarders. Then concentrate on nailing the technical aspect of photography keeping the camera controls set to manual and in RAW picture format. Most importantly read every article and forum on wheelsandwax.com and learn the business side. This site is run by working photographers and details every aspect of action sport shooting. It will teach you the importance of never giving anything away for free. Please don’t do that.

What place of the world is your favourite to work and play?

I’m in Japan right now and its a place thats always in my heart having spent a few years on and off here. I’m not one to discriminate though, Europe has had an insane season and if its on (less often then most) then New Zealand is sweet.
Do you have a website to check out?

Oh yeah; www.timlloydphoto.com Check out my blog section to see where i’m at right now. Want some answers? just check out my site and drop me an email.

Any final thoughts or famous last words...?

“The world is like a book, if you haven’t travelled then you’ve only read the front cover.”

BSA thanks Tim for his time in answering these questions

Saturday, February 28, 2009

Pro Shred Eiki Helgason: Snowboarding is Pretty Much Everything







1. Hometown?


Akureyri Iceland.

2. Choose 3 carefully selected words to describe what snowboarding means to you

Pretty much Everything

3. What are you future aspirations and goals in snowboarding?

I don't like to make goals, i try more just to enjoy every day that goes by.

4. Where is your favourite place to ride?

The park in Kläppen sweden, I had so much fun riding there when i lived in sweden

5. Who do you normally ride with?

I try to ride with my brother and friends from iceland as much as possible but nowadays its pretty random, right now im filming with the People crew so im riding with those guys this season.

6. What is the best feeling trick you like to do on your snowboard?

Any Double Upside down trick i can do! those are so fun no matter if I land or not i always get that good feeling, but its way more fun when I land!!!

7. Where do you see snowboarding (Industry, lifestyle, sport) in the future, say in 10 years time?

Its hard to say? but im sure the level of riding is gonna be just crazy, and i hope people will have a lot of different styles,The industry will do good.
8. If snowboarding didn't exist, what would you be doing instead?

I would probably be working as a Carpenter in iceland and I would have been a bit better in School maybe?

9. Who are your sponsors?


10. What words of wisdom do you have to share...?

Try to see the good thing in everything and enjoy your life.

Monday, February 16, 2009

Forum Team Rider Jake Welch is Addicted to Snowboarding








1. Hometown?

SALT LAKE CITY, UT

2. Here at BSA (British Snow Addictions) we feel that most pro riders are addicted to snowboarding. What are your thoughts on this?

YEAH FOR SURE I WOULD HAVE TO AGREE FOR THE MOST PART... I THINK SOME PEOPLE GET BURNED OUT AND ARE JUST DOING IT CAUSE THEY CAN BUT FOR THE MOST PART I THINK YOU HAVE TO LOVE AND BE OBSESSED WITH IT TO DO IT HOW WE DO YOU KNOW..... IT ISNT JUST ALL FUN THERE ARE DEFENITLY SOME STRESSFUL PARTS ABOUT IT.... LIKE WAKING UP 5 AM, SLEDDING OUT TO THE SPOT, FINDING THINGS TO DO, BUILD IT, HITTING A JUMP AND RAGDOLLING OVER AND OVER AND NEVER THE TRICK YOUR TRYING. BUT WHEN YOU DO IT IS THE SWEETEST FEELING EVER.

3. Describe how you deal with injuries, and the subsequent inability to do what you love...snowboarding

UMM... I TRY TO NOT GET TOO DOWN ON IT BUT ACCEPT IT WHEN IT HAPPENS. IT IS BOUND TO HAPPEN AT TIMES. SO I JUST TAKE IT AND TRY TO GET BACK AND HEALTHY AS QUICK AS I CAN
4. Use 3 words to describe your last snowboarding trip

MIDDLE OF NOWHERE

5. What aspects of being in the legendary Forum team do you enjoy the most?

JUST BEING A PART OF A TEAM THAT HAS SUCH A BIG NAME AND PAST AND KNOWING THAT YOU ARE IN THAT SPOT TO TRY TO KEEP IT THAT WAY IS PRETTY AWESOME

6. What are you plans for the near future?

HONESTLY, TO JUST KEEP SNOWBOARDING, AND HAVING FUN AND TRYING TO PROGRESS AS MUCH AS I CAN..

7. Where do you think the sport, lifestyle and industry of snowboarding will be in the distant future (ie. 10 years from now)?

WAY MORE CONTESTS, AND WAY LESS VIDEOS.... AND CRAZY TRICKS

8. What, in your opinion, will make the snowboarding world a better place?

I THINK IT FOR THE MOST PART IS A PRETTY GOOD PLACE..... BUT MAYBE IF PEOPLE JUST DIDNT CARE SO MUCH ABOUT WHAT OTHERS ARE DOING AND WONDERING WHAT IS COOL AND WHAT IS NOT, BUT JUST TO DO WHAT THEY LIKE AND NOT WORRY ABOUT WHAT OTHERS THINK

9. Who are your sponsors?


10. Today Jake Welch is feeling....LAZY.... JUST DROVE 11 HOURS AND AND GOT HOME AT 230 AM.


BSA thanks Jake for taking the time to answer these questions

Sunday, February 15, 2009

Legendary Pro Photographer Dean 'Blotto' Gray is Searching for the Perfect Shot







1. Hometown?

Burlington, Vermont. Originally from Phoenix, Arizona, started snowboarding in Flagstaff, Arizona.
2. Describe your relationship with snow and snowboarding?

Since the first time I set my feet in the bindings and the board on the snow, I knew this was the life for me. Snowboarding has brought me to far reaches of the globe, both as a sponsored rider, company owner and photographer…I wouldn’t have it any other way.
As a sponsored rider from Arizona, I quickly realized my snowboarding talent would never measure up to other riders once I moved to Colorado and Utah. It was then I decided to become involved in snowboarding on a different level; that as a company owner first, then photographer after that.


3. How long have you been a professional photographer?

I officially took the title as Burton Principal Photographer in 2003 (alongside Jeff Curtes). I was a Road Manager, Photo Editor and Women’s Global Team Manager for Burton and Analog Marketing Director from 1999 to 2003. I was shooting during these times, but only when I had time.

4. Use 3 words to describe your last snowboarding trip/ photo shoot:

Snow, Wind and Searching.

5. How has 'moment capturing' of snowboarding changed over the last decade, in your opinion?

No doubt the biggest change has been from film to digital, an exciting process for sure. In my opinion, when the first professional digital SLR’s were released, they were inefficient in many ways.
I wasn’t comfortable (at that time) trading in my 35mm SLR and film processing techniques for these new cameras that would be outdated within six months time. I held out until the digital SLR bodies could capture the photos as good or better than my previous tools and techniques.
Nowadays I’m really satisfied using the Canon 1Ds Mark III, Canon G9 and Leica M8. Of course there are still some improvements these models could use, but for now it’s all good.

6. What has it been like working with some of the world's best snowboarding athletes?

It’s been very rewarding helping the team riders achieve their goals in snowboarding as a professional. I lend a hand wherever I can with my knowledge of snowboarding and the industry, and of course take the best photos possible of them.

7. We hear you have a new website? Give BSA the www.blottophotto.com lowdown.

I launched my newest website on July 15th, 2008 with many improvements over my previous design. I needed an outlet for my interviews, portfolios, galleries and general information about my photography.
On top of that I added a blog section called ‘The Daily’ which updates my travels six days a week. The Daily also features weekly and monthly columns ranging from Feature Bikes, Picture Wednesday, Flashback Friday, Foto Folios and Scrapbook Sundays.
I’ve been shooting photos for close to ten years now, 5 of those full-time with the Burton squad. It’s been quite the journey that I’ve documented as much as possible through photography and scrapbooking as we traveled, did photo shoots, contests, promo tours, etc. Over this time I’ve built up an extensive library of the life and times of snowboarding and the personalities that make it so special. Flashback Fridays and Scrapbook Sundays are a perfect way to show what went on during these missions and also how I keep track of the million plus airline miles flown.
I welcome all emails about photos, my techniques, my equipment or anything else someone may be curious about. Oh yeah, hit me up for free stickers, I’ll send ‘em out to anywhere in the world at no charge.
8. What words of advice would you give to aspiring snowboarding photographers wishing to carve a successful pro photography career?

The absolute best thing to do is get with the local crew of sponsored riders and start shooting them full time. As they push their riding skills, you’ll learn the craft of snowboard photography.
It’s a great way to build life long friendships, get good at capturing photos and learn that hard work and dedication is extremely rewarding. From there you’ll make the connection with magazines, travel more and more to find good snow/terrain and possibly get an assignment here and there.


9. What part of the world is your favourite place to work and play?

Alaska, Washington State and the Swiss Alps.

10. Today, Dean Blotto Gray is feeling....like shooting a photo I haven’t captured before.


BSA thanks Dean Blotto Gray for taking the time to do this interview

Thursday, February 5, 2009

TJ Schneider Feels Less Attitude Will Make The Snowboarding World Better
























1. Hometown
i was born in red deer alberta and i now live in vancouver but i think i would probably call calgary my home town since thats where i feel at home an all my friends are
2. Try to use just 3 words to describe your relationship with snowboarding , different and fun
3. What do you feel would make the snowboarding world a better place
less competition , not less competitions but less attitude where people see each other as a threat to their own snowboarding , it seems like everyone is competing with everyone all the time
4. What do you have in the pipeline for www.thesnowboardrealms.com
i dont know what the pipe line is , but the realms is all about just snowboarding , having fun and sharing it with people
5. You`re a keen artist...who are your favourite artists
egon schiele is by far my most favorite
6. What is the most challenging aspect of being a professional snowboarder
probably keeping your sponsors stoked and having the energy to do everything
7. What advice would you give to aspiring young riders wanting to be successful snowboarders (Perhaps recreationally or professionally)
watch the snowboard realms , it can help you and give you an idea of what to expect , but other than that id say just have fun , do your thing and try not to stress too much about things
8. Where do you foresee snowboarding, the industry, riding styles, lifestyle of snowboarding in the future (5 to 10 years from now)
i have no idea , i havent even thought about it , im sure shredding will be crazy at a pro level , more travis rice , dan brisse shit , but i think there will still be your soul shredders , i just hope people get a clue and do things like driving less and recycle so we can have snow in the future
9. Who are your sponsors
10. Today...TJ is feeling..........
stoked because i feel like i can finally ride again after working myself in episode 5
BSA thanks TJ for his time to do this interview. Visit www.thesnowboardrealms.com

Thursday, January 29, 2009

British Snowboard Team Athlete Sam Cullum takes fun sky high











1. Hometown?


Bracknell UK


2. Using 3 words describe what snowboarding means to you.

FUN , travel, Tough


3. What are your personal goals for the future?

To have as much fun as possible.


4. What are the benefits or drawbacks (if any) of being a British snowboarder?

Not too sure im pretty sure its as tough for everyone to make it to the top however we do have the lack of snow and mountains


5. How do you normally prepare for a snowboarding contest?

Try and act as if its a normal day and try not to think about it too much


6. What is your favourite snowboarding manoeuvre you like to perform?

Tailfish


7. Where do you see snowboarding, particularly British snowboarding, in the future (say in 5 years)?

going sky high


8. What words of advice would you give to aspiring young snowboarders wishing to progress in the sport/lifestyle of snowboarding?


It hurts, you fall alot and it takes time but dont give up its so worth all the effort.

9. Where will your next snowboarding trip take you?


Italy, Canada and america


10. Who are your sponsors?





For more info check out http://www.samcullum.co.uk/




BSA thanks Sam for his time in answering these questions. (and for supplying the action shot included in article)

Tuesday, January 27, 2009

British Rider Aimee Fuller on Fun, Progression & 2014 Olympics







Photo: Aimee in Laax Switzerland by Dave Hunt




Photo: Aimee @ BEO 2009 by Becky Cullum


1. Hometown?


Keston, Kent


2. What will you be doing mostly this winter?


Getting in as much snow time as possible , whilst juggling my A Level studies and competing in a few TTR comps.


3. Describe your relationship with snowboarding ?


I have a great passion for the sport, I love to compete aswell as ride for fun, it gives me a sense of freedom.


4. What are your snowboarding and personal goals for the future?


To progress as much as possible, to ride in the 2014 Olympics, learn a 720.


5. Describe your last snowboarding trip using 3 carefully selected words?


BEO, Sunshine, Experience


6. What words of advice would you give to aspiring young female riders?


Ride with good friends, I know it sounds cheesey... but the more fun you have the more you will progress, keep trying new things, and don't give up.


7. Who are your sponsors?


Roxy, Vans, Hair apartment, TSA


8. Give BSA an Aimee Fuller WOW (Words of Wisdom)


Work hard , Play hard and it pays off!




BSA would like to thank Aimee for taking the time to answer these questions. We wish this young British snowboarder great success for the future.

Sunday, January 11, 2009

Jed Anderson: Snowboarding = Fun, Friends & Love















1. Hometown?
Calgary Alberta, Canada
2. Choose 3 carefully selected words to describe what snowboarding means to you.
fun friends love
3. What are you future aspirations and goals in snowboarding?
i just want to keep learning and keep having fun.
4. Where is your favourite place to ride?
bear mountain, Canada Olympic Park, Golden B.C.
5. Who do you normally ride with?
Any one whos at C.O.P.
6. What is the best feeling trick you like to do on your snowboard? just air time or long rails......or landing in powder
7. Where do you see snowboarding in the future, say in 10 years time?
wow. ummm. hopefully still involved with the sport. Maybe working for a company or still riding lots? who knows? thats a long ways away!
8. If snowboarding didn't exist, what would you be doing instead?
Skateboarding
9. Who are your sponsors?
10. What words of wisdom do you have to share...?
Have fun with whatever it is you do! dont get all serious and cry! Enjoy Life! Keep your friends and family close!
BSA thanks Jed for taking the time to answer these questions

Tuesday, January 6, 2009

Leanne Pelosi: Pro Rider, Film Producer & Danny Kass Fan




















1. Hometown?

Calgary Alberta Canada. Living in Vancouver BC. Home Mtn: Whistler BC

2. Use 3 carefully selected words to describe what snowboarding means to you.

WAY OF LIFE

3. What is your involvement in Runway Films?

I produced Runway Films with Jeff Keenan and also rode in it. We both wore many hats from sponsorships, to direction, to organizing shoots, to putting out fires.

4. What, in your opinion, would make snowboarding better ?

ski hills keeping it real and not charging 100 bucks a lift ticket.

5. Where do you see snowboarding, particularly female snowboarding, in say 10 years time?

900s, 1080’s, 720’s into pow, cliff spins, spins onto and off of rails, gaps, packed with soccer moms.

6. Who is/are your favourite rider/s and why?

I really respect Danny Kass because he’s got it dialed. He’s got an amazing snowboard career and also a solid business on the side. I don’t know how he manages to do it all, but he does it very well. He inspires me a lot because he works very hard for what he has and is a little marketing genius when it comes to biz. That and he has a really unique style of snowboarding.

7. Describe THE perfect day...

That would be riding with my best friends, in any condition. I don’t get to ride with my best friends that much anymore, so anytime I get to spend with them is always good because the best way to catch up is on the chairlift.

8. What trick on your snowboard gives you the most pleasure?

Either a method or a frontside 360.

9. Who are your sponsors?

K2 Bonfire, Monster Energy, Dragon, Dakine, 32, etnies, Whistler/Blackcomb

10. What advice do you have for young enthusiastic female snowboarders wanting to make a career out of snowboarding?

Come and join our MGT ACADEMY. We are offering a sponsorship to those who sign up and attend camp. The coaches this year are judging the best campers and they all go against each other in search of a sponsorship which will include a free camp to MGT session at high cascade in summer 09. Put yourself in a position where important people will be able to see your skills. Summer camps are great for that because there are so many pros there, and also contests are good too!

Do you have anything else you want to say? perhaps some Leanne Pelosi (WOW) Words of Wisdom...

You sleep when you’re dead! Take every opportunity you get.

BSA thanks Leanne for taking the time to answer these questions. Bonus fact: Pelosi is originally from Swansea, Wales (So, Leanne is British after all!)

Thursday, January 1, 2009

Talented British Snowboarder Nate Kern on 1080's & Husky's






1. Hometown?

FOREST ROW- EAST SUSSEX

2. Use 3 carefully selected words to describe what snowboarding is to you

FREE, FUN & ADRENALINE

3. Where are you at the moment?

BRECKENRIDGE, COLORADO USA!

4. What are you snowboarding and personal goals for the future?

TO KEEP PUSHING MYSELF, RIDING IN THE X-GAMES, TTR EVENTS AND WINNING. ALL FOUR 1080'S.TO BUILD A HOUSE HERE IN COLORADO AND GET ANOTHER HUSKY WITH MY GIRL TANYA. SHARE THE WELLNESS OF NIKKEN WITH HUNDREDS OF PEOPLE.


5. Where do you see snowboarding in say 10 years time?


BEING AT ANOTHER LEVEL WITH RIDING BEING WAY MORE TECHNICAL AND EQUIPMENT BEING INSANE. LIKE PRESS A BUTTON AND YOUR BOOTS ARE READY TO GO. BOARDS BEING MADE OUT OF NEW MATERIALS FOUND ON MARS. TONS OF PEOPLE HAVING PERSONAL PARKS LIKE THE DC MT LAB!!


6. What are the benefits and drawbacks (if any) of being a British snowboarder?


BENEFITS ARE FEW AS FAR AS I CAN THINK... ITS NICE TO BE STAND OUT AND INSPIRE THE YOUNGER GENERATION. DRAWBACKS ARE PLENTIFUL, GOTTA PAY A TON TO BE ON THE BRITISH TEAM AND REPRESENT YOUR COUNTRY, UNLIKE NEARLY EVERYWHERE ELSE WHERE THEY PAY YOU. THE SNOW SCENE ISNT MASSIVE SO ISNT TO MUCH MONEY IN IT IN THE UK.


7. If snowboarding didn't exist, what would you be doing instead?


SKI... HAHA JOKING. SKATEBOARDING IS SUPER FUN AND WOULD BE DOING A LOT MORE OF THAT.


8. Who is your favourite rider, and why? (Choose as many as you wish)


TRAVIS RICE... REMEMBER SEEING HIM IN SNOWBOARDER MAG BACK IN THE DAY DOING A 112 FOOT RODEO AT MAMMOTH SUPER PARK AS AN UNKNOWN GUY AND THINKING HE IS GONNA BE HUGE. LOOK AT HIM NOW!! "THATS IT, THATS ALL" SAYS IT ALL REALLY. HES SICK AND RIDES FOR DC!!


9. Who are you sponsors?




10. Any 'Nate Kern' words of wisdom ? (WOW)


IF THIS IS A DREAM, I HOPE I NEVER WAKE UP! YOU ONLY LIVE ONCE. GO RIDE AND HAVE FUN.


THANK YOU TO: MY GIRL TANYA, MUM,DAD, FAMILY FRIENDS AND OF COURSE MY SPONSORS FOR THE SUPPORT, DC, SMITH, DROP, BAWBAGS, ME.GLAD.


British Snow Addictions thanks Nate for taking the time to answer these questions

Monday, December 29, 2008

EXCLUSIVE: French-Canadian Wonder Kid Seb Toots talks with BSA

























1. Hometown?


L'Assomption,QC,CA


2. What is your age?


16 years old


3. What do you like about snowboarding?


Everything because it's the best sport ever.


4. How do you approach learning a new trick?


I when ride to my home mountain for practice and the park was so good to ride.I was trying some backside 1080 , some time it was almost a double cork and I just started to gave more flip to my second cork.


5. Describe your last snowboarding trip using 3 carefully selected words.


Big, funny, Insane.


6. Who is your favourite rider?


Eero Ettala and Travis Rice.


7. What are your future goals? personally and professionally


One of my biggest goals it's to do the X-games And to have a big house with a snow park in my backyard.


8. Where do you see snowboarding in the future?, say in 10 years time


I think the level of the snowboarding will be so high and one of the most popular sport in the world wide.


9. Who do you normally ride with?




I ride a lot with my friends and Max Henault who helping me out.


10. Who are your sponsors?




11. Any final thoughts...? (E.g. What is the first thing that comes into your head..now?)




Let's go ride!






BSA thanks Seb Toots (aka Sebastian Toutant) for taking the time to answer these questions in his 2nd language

Monday, December 15, 2008

It's Snow Life Through A Lens: A snapshot of Pro Photographer Nathan Gallagher


















1. Hometown?
Tamworth was where I was born, although I grew up in Sutton Coldfield.

2. When did you start capturing snowboarding images professionally?

About 11 years ago, the first image I had published was in Snowboard UK and was a shot of Axel Parpourte doing a backside air off the famous SPC hip in Hintertux

3. Describe your relationship with your camera and photography

A camera is a means to an end, photography is a area of expression.

4. Are you a bit of a snow addict?, if yes, please explain

Absolutely, that magical moment when the first snow of the winter starts to flutter down makes me 8 years old every year.

5. Describe your latest photoshoot adventure using 3 descriptive words

Beatbox, Choir, Southbank

6. How do you think the current global 'credit crunch' will affect your industry?

I think that the photographic industry has been a turbulent one for quite some time, the adoption of digital equipment has lowered the perceived value of the end product, this has had knock-on effects throughout the industry

7. Where do you think action sports photography and snowboarding will be in the future?, say in 10 years from now

It will all be film based, photographers will film rather than shoot, then select their frames in post (this is already happening elsewhere) I imagine a subtle divide will appear aesthetically between those who shoot for stills and those who film for both stills and movie footage. Mainly because of the angles and framing differences between the two disciplines but also because of the work-flow which surrounds them.

8. What is your 'style' of photography?

People like to ask what 'kind' of photographer you are, I find it difficult to answer because I need variety to keep me interested, so I stole the following answer off another photographer, Sam Hart : I shoot landscapes and portraits.

9. What are you future goals? Professionally and personally?

Have fun, develop and learn from everything and beat Tim Warwood in a Chinese downhill 10.

Do you have any wise words of wisdom for enthusiastic photographers wanting to carve a successful professional career?

What photography in the snowsports industries can offer you in amazing experiences, wonderful people and glamourous locations it takes from you by way of any real money.

11. Any final thoughts or famous last words...?

That piano up there is getting bigger and bigger
BSA would like to thank Nathan for his time in participating in this interview

Saturday, December 6, 2008

6th Roxy Chicken Jam 12th December 2008


Roxy Chicken Jam 2008
From 12th to 14th of December 2008
Kitzsteinhorn - Kaprun (Austria)

For the third time in a row, Kitzsteinhorn hosts the world’s biggest snowboard event for girls only: from December 12 to 14, 2008, the 6th Roxy Chicken Jam Europe will take place at Zell am See-Kaprun, Salzburg County, Austria. At the Glacier Park on Kitzsteinhorn, the planet’s best female snowboarders will fight for the US$ 50,000 prize-money as well as vital points for the Swatch Ticket To Ride (TTR) Women’s World Snowboard Tour.
The Roxy Chicken Jams at Kitzsteinhorn at the beginning of the winter and at Mammoth, USA, at the end of the season are 6-star events and the biggest and most important competitions of the TTR Women's World Snowboard Tour – while the winter kick-off in Kaprun sets the course for a successful season, the female world champion will be crowned at the Roxy Chicken Jam USA.
With 1,000 points for the overall ranking respectively, the winners can distance themselves from their competitors. At both events, the snow park and the event format are specially tuned to the girls’ demands, and they stay among themselves without being disturbed by their male colleagues. All in all, this leads to a stronger performance.
The slopestyle competition at the Glacier Park Kitzsteinhorn will be held in a jam session format: the female snowboarders are allowed to do as many runs as they want within the given time. This format leaves a lot of freedom to the riders as they don’t have to stick every trick in one single run. Hence, they can try more creative moves. The jury only rewards the best runs. The judges look for the execution and style of the tricks and how the rider uses the single elements of the park. 25 invited riders plus the best five riders of Friday’s qualifications will take part in the Main Session on Saturday. Subsequently, eight riders will compete in the finals.
For the snowboard girls, the Roxy Chicken Jam is the highlight of the season. This is proven by the extraordinary list of starters. Last year, the 2006 TTR world champion Cheryl Maas (NED) won the event. Second place went to Jamie Anderson (USA), who later became the 2008 TTR world champion at the Roxy Chicken Jam USA. Claudia Fliri (AUT) who became eighth in the TTR ranking came in third. With the 2007 TTR world champion Torah Bright (AUS) and Kjersti Buass Oestgaard (NOR), also the second and fourth of the 2008 TTR end-of-season ranking were at the start at last year’s Roxy Chicken Jam at Kaprun.
For this pre-Christmas get-together of the snowboard queens, Zell am See-Kaprun is the ideal location: not only due to the snow-sure Kitzsteinhorn glacier but also because of the three snow parks of the Kitzsteinhorn Mellow Park. At the Glacier Park where the Roxy Chicken Jam will take place, 30 obstacles will wait for the riders. But during the event weekend, also the Roxy Park for beginners and intermediates and the DC Central Park for advanced and pro riders (both to be found at the Sonnenkarbahn chair lift) will already be open to the public.
With the Roxy Chicken Jam, the winter gets underway – and that’s reason enough to celebrate: at the Xmas party in Saturday night, the snowboarders will dance the night away with the locals.
For more information please visit www.roxy.com and www.chickenjam.com
Pictures free of charges available on: http://roxy-press.com
Username : roxy
Login : roxypress
Footages free of charges available, ask to the press contact

Roxy Chicken Jam 2008 – Fact Sheet:
What it is International snowboard contest for women
Location Zell am See-Kaprun (AUT), Glacier Park, Kitzsteinhorn
Date December 12-14, 2008
Event Mode Slopestyle, Jam Session format
Prize purse US$ 50,000
Schedule Friday, December 12th

01-03 pm Qualification (30 riders), photoshooting
Saturday, December 13th
11 am-01 pm Main Session (25 invited + 5 qualified riders)
02-03 pm Finals with the best 8 riders, afterwards: prize-giving
10 pm Xmas-Party
Sunday, December 14th
Bad weather day; photoshooting
Infos (accommodation) www.zellamsee-kaprun.at and www.kitzsteinhorn.at
Winners so far: Roxy Chicken Jam 2004 (Innsbruck/AUT): Natasha Zurek (CAN)
Roxy Chicken Jam 2005 (St.Moritz/SUI): Natasha Zurek (CAN)
Roxy Chicken Jam 2006 (St.Moritz/SUI): Cheryl Maas (NED)
Roxy Chicken Jam 2006 (Kaprun/AUT): Jamie Anderson (USA)
Roxy Chicken Jam 2007 (Kaprun/AUT): Cheryl Maas (NED)
Organization Mellow Constructions, Pradlerstrasse 69a, A-6020 Innsbruck
E-Mail: office@mellow.at; Tel./Fax: +43 (0) 512 93 67 15
Media contact intern. Agence Olivia Payerne, Marine Dufour, 20 1 Boulevard Jean Jaurès
92100 Boulogne Billancourt ,Tel. +33 1 46 04 08 62 Fax +33 1 46 04 14 60
E-Mail: contact@agence-op.fr
Media contact GER/AUT Ring PR, Gerti Ring, Staufenstr. 21, D-83278 Traunstein
Tel.: +49 (0) 861 9096381, Fax: +49 (0) 861 9096383
E-Mail: gerti@ring-pr.de