Name?
Allie
What is your nickname? If you have one?
Al
Where do you primarily ride?
Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico
What made you start snowboarding?
All my life I had played competitive soccer. I had terrible coaches that constantly made me want to quit and I eventually fell out of love with the sport I grew up playing. I wanted to try something new and something that I could do completely on my own. In high school I decided I wanted to try snowboarding. It was something I could do without a coach constantly yelling at me. Little did I know that I would fall in love and have such a tremendously supportive community behind me.
What’s your favorite board to ride?
Gilson Nirvana
Favorite riding story if you have one?
The day I met Alex a.k.a Ring. Alex and I started learning how to snowboard at the same time. My sister had introduced us that day and we drove up to Sipapu together for some ride time. I remember progressing a lot that day. I also remember being so sore the next day from laughing so hard with Alex. We are still best friends to this day.
Why do you love to snowboard?
I love to snowboard because its my escape from reality and because of the amazing people I have met. Never have I experienced such a supportive and loving community. There’s nothing better than finally landing that trick you’ve been practicing and hearing people cheer you on! I also love snowboarding because it’s challenging.
When you aren’t snowboarding what are you most likely finding yourself getting into?
You can usually find me doing anything outdoors. I love to travel, hike, camp, throw a football or kick a soccer ball, and I recently started to learn skateboarding. If I am not outdoors, then you can find me with friends, family, or studying at the University.
What is your favorite area on the mountain? Jumps, rails, natural terrain?
I love riding the entire mountain. Taos Ski Valley has amazing natural terrain, especially at Kachina Peak. Though you may find me in the park on occasion, I have a love-hate relationship with it. I’m usually really nervous before dropping in to the park but I love progressing on the rails. I also especially love riding in the trees and finding natural jibs, like logs.
Where do you see yourself in five years snowboarding wise? Traveling to another country?
In five years I hope to continue progressing with my tricks. My sister moved to New Zealand and I am planning on visiting her in June and July for some awesome snowboarding. I also plan on continuing to volunteer for the outreach programs through Mountain Vibez!
Do you have a pre-boarding ritual or something you need to have on you at all times on the mountain?
My pre-boarding ritual usually begins with an awesome breakfast burrito (extra chile) and tequila. I usually always have headphones with me on the mountain. I like to pump myself up with some classic AC/DC!