August 11, 2008 @ 9:16 AM - Features: Sports
What’s your favourite place to skate?
Somewhere in the sun - not too hot with a perfect breeze - with my friends, music, and of course something nice to skate. That’s all I need for a perfect skate place.
Do you still get nervous before a big contest?
Of course man! I always feel so small and I just can’t believe I’m part of some of the best skateboarding women in the world. I always get over-excited when I see the others skate. I don’t mind getting last place, I’m always so stoked just because of the adrenaline and seeing the other girls kicking ass!
What is the atmosphere like behind the scenes?
I guess lots of skaters do drugs but I’m not getting into that. I love drinking, dancing a lot, trying to keep under control! Ha ha! But I’m crazy enough without drinking! I just love chilling and watching movies with friends. A nice mix of crazy and chilled out time.
You must travel a lot in your line of work: what are your suitcase essentials?
Well I coloured my hair as I wanted something new, so now I need to use hair straighteners, so I have to carry those around. Yes, I’m a girl! I also love to have some perfume with me… I like to smell good. My colourful pants and wifebeaters are also a must.
What have been your biggest career setbacks?
Well I get really sad about it because right now both my wrists hurt like hell. I had surgery for my left wrist and I fell on it again, so now it’s swollen up and I need to go to the hospital to get a scan. I also have lots of suckie times with my ankles… roll them here… roll them there. Ah well, I always say, it’s part of the job! If you’re scared of falling, don’t start skating.
What have your greatest achievements been so far?
Well just being invited to X-Games was a big achievement for me. And just being able to travel and earn money to do something that I love is amazing.
Who or what are your inspirations?
My friends who supported me from the start, pushing me to learn new stuff, keeping the fun into skating. And not letting me get down when I get injured.
Right now my hero is definitely Marissa del Santos. She’s amazing, she kicks ass, she’s badass and she rocks on the boardddddddd!!!
What affect does your career have on your personal life?
When I miss school to go skate I have to do all the work when I get back, which can be tough. Almost all of my spare time goes into skateboarding, but I don’t mind. I’ve just got to try and keep in contact with my mates that don’t skate, as when I’m gone in summer I miss them very much.
How do you relax when you get the chance?
Well I love being lazy, with soda, chips and a movie. I also enjoy doing BBQs with friends and talking about memories and things like that.
What’s up next for you?
It’s my last year of high school so I have heaps of exams coming up. If I pass I’ll have my diploma - whoop whoop - and a BIG party! If not… I don’t want to think about that!