Comment Share Posted on Friday November 13th at 10:25 a.m.

The awesome news on my inclusion in the 09/10 National Snowboard Team

Time seems to have flown by since the ski season finished back early last month. I can't believe it's been that long since I updated my profile. So thought I would take a few minutes and update everyone on what's been happening.

I had some awesome news earlier this week. The NZSBU National Teams where named for the 2009/2010 season, I am totally stoked to retain my position in the National Team along with Juliane Bray (Wanaka), Nick Brown (Queenstown), Mitch Brown (Mt. Maunganui), Shelly Gotlieb (Ohakune), James Hamilton (Auckland), Nick Hyne (Mt. Maunganui), Will Jackways (Wanaka), Jacob Koia (Arrowtown), Abby Lockhart (WANAKA), and Stef Zeestraten (Christchurch) and Kendall Brown (Mt Maunganui). Congratulations to those guys.
For a full list of names on both the National Team and the National Squad see http://www.snowsports.co.nz/Article.aspx?Mode=1&ID=1028

After making the national development squad earlier this year, I was then moved into the National Snowboard Team in April on the back of some great results over my northern hemisphere campaign. Other results that contributed to me holding my spot on the NZ team, was some outstanding placings in the 09 southern hemisphere season. Retaining my No. 1 NZ ranking for adaptive snowboarding at the New Zealand Adaptive Nationals in July and 2nd place in the Adaptive Snowboarding World Championships.

I am well into my off snow training and preparation for my 2010 northern season that will see me once again travel to North America to compete in the Canadian Adaptive Nationals, USASA Nationals & a couple of World Cup events in both Canada and the USA. I also plan on lining up in some able bodied regional SBX events to continually develop my snowboarding.

I have been making the most of the warmer weather and getting out on my mountain bike. This keeps me fit along with regular gym visits to retain power and strength.

Of course like most other snowboarders competing on the international stage isn't cheap and there is a constant battle to obtain sponsors, and raise funds for international competition. If anyone has some great fundraising ideas please feel free to contact me.
To raise some additional funds I have decided to start my own business.
As an Architectural Designer with 10 years experience I thought I would take the opportunity with my relocation to Wanaka to try something different. Working for myself gives me the flexibility to train and compete without an employer breathing down ya neck!!!
So if anyone out there is thinking of building a new house or maybe some alterations and additions. Please contact me for a free quote.