Rider Profile: Simon Blaney

I haven't known Simon very long. However, in the short time that I have known him, I've learned that he really likes snowboarding - a lot.

The first time I met him there was a small group of us sitting around drinking cold beer and talking about snowboarding. Simon happened to have his laptop with him and we spent a good hour sifting through photos, watching footage and talking about how good Canada is (well I haven't been yet, so I was just kinda listening). Excellent! I asked Simon if he wanted to use some of his stuff for a profile on afterbang - and here it is...

Name, age, current location, nationality?
Simon Blaney, 29, Newcastle, British/Jedi.

How long have you been snowboarding?
About 6 years...

How did you get into it?
I was first asked by a skiing friend if I fancied going snowboarding to France. I've never looked back since!

Where have you been?
France (Tignes, Les Deux Alpes, Val d'Isere), Italy, Canada (Fernie BC, Lake Louise) and Scotland!

Who do you normally ride with?
Always with friends.

What do you think of riding in the UK?
It's pretty good but I'd say there is a lack of riding facilities in north east. I used to ride at the Fax (snowflex slope in Halifax) regularly and I've ridden at Castleford a fair bit. We definitely need a snowflex kicker up north! Maybe I should build one? If you build it they will come...

What type of riding do you like to do?
My first love is free riding - powder and backcountry stuff. I ride powder as often as possible, that's why I like Canada so much. But I'm still really happy in the park - and when you ride in the UK that's what you're riding.

What's your setup, board, bindings, angles etc?
Board is a Nitro Suprateam, 160 with Burton P1 bindings. That's my powder setup. I've also got a Ride Kink, 152 with Ride Team bindings for the park. My angles: +15 -10, and boots - Burton Ions.

Any sponsorship?
Nope.

What's been your worst slam?
I've had a few! Hurt my back badly a few years back.

Where are you riding next?
Fernie, BC. I can't wait!

What's in the video below?
The video was taken in Lake Louise last season (2006). I love taking video when riding with friends, it's all part of the fun. This footage has loads of powder and trees, just how I like it!

What do you like best about snowboarding?
Easy - being in the mountains and being with friends.

Anything else?
Yeah, I'd love to have a trip to Japan - the powder there should be mint. I also want to improve my freestlye and learn more tricks. Come to think of it - I should ride more often and do less work!

Rider Video

Photos

Simon: I love taking all kinds of photos, here are some from the last trip...