Sara Mikkelsen works at Coastal Riders in Surrey, BC. Known as Tall Sara, a nickname given to her by Timebomb’s Dave Birnie, she can be seen riding up at Seymour when she’s not at work.

What advice do you give girls coming in to buy their first set up? “Don’t go for the ‘pretty’ board. Go for the board that actually fits your height and weight and style of riding. You’re going to look better making it down the mountain with a set up that works for you.”

What are three items in store right now that you love? “Dinosaurs Will Die boards (www.dinosaurswilldie.com) because they’re not dead yet. Jeff and Sean that run DWD are awesome friends that ride for Coastal and I think everyone should support them! PartySnake Tees (www.thepartysnake.com) because if you know, you know, if you don’t, check them out! Shwood sunglasses (www.shwoodshop.com) that we will be getting, they are handmade out of wood—and my boyfriend helps make them.” 

How often do you get up riding and where do you like to go? “Mount Seymour! I normally like to get four or five days of riding a week but this year has been a little different with the weather but I’m always down to go up in a poncho and do some rain riding.”

What's your set up this year? “Burton was nice enough to put me on a shop girl program and hooked me up almost head to toe. I’m riding the Blender with Molotov bindings, Hail boots, POW Gloves (always helping me out) and Dragon goggles.”

What's the greatest thing about working at Coastal Riders? “My Godfather Damon Pyett. And if your lucky to meet him— Damone.”

Any funny stories from working in a snowboard shop? “It’s Coastal Riders—funny stuff is going on all the time. Anything from the people, parties, trips, customers, team, the dolphin, Nelson out back—there’s always something going on to keep you laughing.