Shredding down the mountain

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Daniel Lile
  • 14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --  Despite the many outdoor opportunities in the local area, if Airmen just want to get out of Columbus on a weekend and take a road trip, snowboarding is always fun and exciting. Whether you have been snowboarding your whole life or are looking to try it for the first time, it's a fun get-away.

"I started snowboarding when I was in middle school in Newport, Wash.," said Staff Sgt. Justin Williamson, 14th Civil Engineer Squadron. "There were two ski resorts in our area so we tried to go snowboarding around five times a year."

No matter what outdoor activity Airmen are participating in, safety should always be the primary concern. Many possible injuries can be avoided in any activity if Airmen wear the proper safety equipment and follow guidelines.

"It is always challenging to have fun while staying safe; there are always injuries that can happen," said Williamson. "I suggest always wearing a helmet and getting snowboarding lessons before getting out on the mountain."

Experienced snowboarders usually prefer to own specific gear that is custom to their height, weight and snowboarding style.

"I have two sets of snowboarding equipment," said Williamson. "One from when I was younger and a newer one for my size now. You want a specific snowboard for your size and snowboarding style."

If Airmen want to go snowboarding but don't own equipment, ski resorts usually rent out snowboarding and skiing gear.

"Ski resorts always have rental gear available; the gear is not customized to one individual person but more generic for the average height and weight," said Williamson. "So if you have any special wants or needs you might want to purchase your own gear and customize it to yourself for maximum performance."

Snowboarding is fun and is always an adrenaline rush. For many Airmen, it's just about getting out there and trying new things.

"I like trying new sports, and the feeling of sliding down the mountain is great," said Senior Airman Eva Gaus, 14th Civil Engineer Squadron. "It's a great rush doing something new and different such as snowboarding."

No matter what outdoor activity Airmen are participating in, it's great getting out into the great outdoors and snowboarding is an excellent way to make that happen.
"I like just getting out there, it is a freeing feeling," said Williamson. "Going up on the lift and getting to see the great sights. Then when you start boarding, it's just you, your snowboard and the mountain. It is a great feeling."