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Snowboard Canada
July Rider of the Month
Natasza Zurek
Like peanut butter and jelly, Natasza Zurek and a snowboard belong together. Often admired for the ease she’s had with snowboarding throughout her career, this Polish native has us wondering if she has the same natural ability when it comes to construction work. Check out our rider of the month as she walks us through renovations and Quantum Physics.
What has been the highlight of your month?
I just got a place, which I'm doing renovations on so that's been exciting.
What is the worst thing that happened this month?
The renovations are going to take forever, and from doing so much work I already can't feel my hands.
Who does your shred crew consist of these days?
It's Steven, Kimmy, and Priscilla whenever she's in town, but mostly it's Leanne and whoever we're filming with.
What is something you’ve learned this month?
I learned a lot about how to do the different trades like drywall, painting, flooring, etc. I also learned that in Geneva, Switzerland, they just finished building a giant underground 23 km long loop tunnel in which they're going to accelerate sub-atomic particles at each other at really high speeds to make them collide and observe the weird and fascinating results. This may help answer questions about the laws of Quantum Physics and about how the universe is made up.
What is your favourite aspect of snowboarding?
I love the freedom of creative expression.
Do you have some advice for the mini shreds out there?
My best nugget of advice would be to always keep your focus on the enjoyment of snowboarding and try not to get too caught up in the sponsorship or politics side of the sport.
Aside from snowboarding what have you been up to?
I also just got a mountain bike, so my sister has been taking me out on mellow trails.
Which song is on repeat in your iPod right now?
MGMT, Time To Pretend
What is your favourite vacation spot?
I like Tofino, ‘cause it's close enough to drive to waves and there's a mellow vibe there.
If you could change something about the world what would it be?
I think we all need more transparency and less secrecy. People should share more information and not try to keep others in the dark.
If you could change something about snowboarding what would it be?
I wish everyone who ventured into the backcountry would be well educated and prepared. We should all work together as a group to stay safe.
What do you want to accomplish next?
Next, I want to move into my place and get ready for another winter season.
Who, in snowboarding, has influenced you the most?
Ever since the beginning, I've always looked up to the big name pros. Then it was Markku Koski, and now it's happy people.
Why is snowboarding not just a hobby for you?
Because it pays the bills.
Thanks?
Thank you always to Agata, Basia, Kris, Yuho, Steven, Burton, Nikita, Anon, Whistler Blackcomb, and Les Ettes.
