Ryan Stassel

"When I was 8 years old I was watching the X-Games on tv and was blown away by what they were doing. At this moment I realized that I wanted to be a Professional Snowboarder ! By the age of 13, I won my first National event. This was a big turning page in my career as my parents decided to fully let me pursue my dream of becoming a Professional Snowboarder. By the time I was 19, I got invited to most of the major named events and was attending camps hosted by the U.S Team. At one of the camps, I broke my ankle which made me focus more on strength training and taking care of myself. Because of this, the next year I was riding better than ever!   I was nominated to the U.S National Team and was given a chance to compete in one of the Olympic qualifying events. Throughout the years my riding has continued to improve, leading me to become an Olympian, a World Champion and a top contender on the World Cup Series!"

• Place and date of birth:  October 23th 1992 in Anchorage, AK 
• City where Ryan lives now: Anchorage AK
• At what age did you start your discipline? I started snowboarding when I was 5 and started competing at 8.
• Quelles sont les raisons de l'avoir choisi ? After watching the X-Games on TV, I thought it was the coolest thing ever and I wanted to do it.
• What is your main objective in your sport career? I just want to ride well and have fun!  If that leads me to the top of a podium or in a magazine, awesome!  If not… at least I’m still snowboarding
• What is your main objective in your personal life? To push myself beyond my boundaries and to live an active healthy lifestyle
• Do you have a particular habit, a ritual before a competition? Every time before I drop in for a competition run, I take a few deep breaths, say a few words of encouragement, clap my hand and then go.   Look for it, I do it every time!
• What is your favorite competition spot? Mammoth, CA. 
• What is the best memory in your career? My best memory would have to be the 5 qualifying events before the Olympics.  The whole not knowing wether I’d make it to the next event or not was crazy.  It was a 2 month emotional roller coaster that ended in my favor.  Making the U.S Olympic Team and competing in the Olympics was by far the biggest moment in my life!   But the 5 qualifying events before it was what made it so special and that why it’s my best memory.
• What is your favorite place to rest? I enjoy going back to Alaska. There is just no place like home !
• What is your favorite destination for holidays? Anywhere warm haha
• What is your favorite song, artist? I’m a big classic rock/ heavy rock fan. I’d say Sultan of Swing by The Dire Straights.
• What is your favorite movie? I like the Oceans 11 series
• What is your favorite dish? Pizza !
• What is your favorite activity (except your sport)? I enjoy hiking and camping, playing my guitar and fishing.
• Do you have motto? Always do your best!