The rush of energy that a boarder often experiences while looking down from the apex of a mountain can be overwhelming. Yet some brave teens are eager and willing to ride down the slopes on a snowboard using their balance, speed and wit.

The talent of snowboarding does not just come automatically. It takes practice just like any other sport does. A snowboard, bindings, boots, and specially designed clothing are essential for a safe ride.

“The right equipment is vital to the way you ride (your snowboard),” Katrina Stevenson, ’06, said. “If you forget a piece of equipment, you could get in a serious accident.”

Injuries are a large part of snowboarding. Throughout the history of the sport, there have been broken bones, concussions, paralysis and sometimes death. One wrong turn or a quick speed increase and the rider becomes a human snowball.

“I was going way too fast while going off jumps and I cut an edge,” Rene Charest, ’04, said. “I skidded along the snow, and I had to be taken to the hospital by an ambulance. I ended up with a cut up forehead, arms, and I had a huge bruise that covered my back.”

Although injuries occur, many still attempt to improve. While some snowboard for fun, others are on teams, and are even sponsored boarders. Many males and females practice and practice to try and impress scouts that look for new talent.

“I know I’m not good enough to be sponsored yet, but that would be really cool,” Morgan Rigby, ’04, said. “I just started snowboarding this year, and I wish I had learned how to sooner. I think that it’s the most fun and hilarious sport ever, especially when you fall or when you see your friends fall. As long as you don’t get hurt, it’s awesome. ”

California Scholarship Federation (CSF) is planning on going on a ski/snowboarding trip at the end of Feb. or the beginning of Mar. The actual date has not been set, but a group of students will be going to Sierra Summit for a day of skiing, snowboarding and snowball fights. For more information on the trip, contact Molly Sargent at 297-9464 ext. 150.

Others may be interested in watching professinal snowboarders on television as the X Games are being televised on ESPN, ESPN2 and ABC Jan. 30-Feb. 2. Check local listings for times.