About Me
Originally from the southeast, skateboarding was my first love (started at 10). However, 3 years later I tried surfing (Alabama Point) and it became an even bigger obsession. I eventually moved to Los Angeles, and lived a couple of blocks from the beach for 5 years. I then moved farther north and 2 hours inland and have stayed here the past 20 years (still get about 30 surfing days a year).
In 1990, I tried snowboarding once at Dodge Ridge, but wasn't inspired (probably because of the crap rental).
Cut to January, 2006
In 06, I was invited to Tahoe with some gambler friends (they don't ride). It's at least a 5+ hour drive each way, but I thought: "What the hell, I'll just rent one of those snow skates I've been wondering about for years". Of course, no one at the ski shop informed me it was an early season powder day and that snow skates basically don't work in powder. Even though I was a total noob, it's embarrassing to say I didn't want anything strapped to my feet, so I wasted that wonderful day hiking around the mountain, determined to make that iced up thing work...it didn't! (payed my dues, I guess). I finally realized bindings are there for a reason and, the next day, rented a snowboard...
The gamblers have since consistently invited me every year to Tahoe, up to twice a year: new years and/or spring break. The casinos are in South Lake Tahoe or Reno, so my choices are basically Heavenly, Mt. Rose or occasionally Squaw Valley.
I love Heavenly, not only because the mountain is huge, but because the gondola is literally a one block walk from the hotels. Mt. Rose involves a 30 minute shuttle and is significantly smaller, but is also relatively steeper and overall more interesting. Squaw is the best, by far, but is the farthest shuttle and most expensive.
Fortunately, I also have a season pass at Sierra Summit. Although I call it my local spot, it's 2 hours drive each way, so I usually only go once a week...twice, under the right circumstances.
Stats:
6' 1" tall
175 lbs.
10 boot
