The Brits: Lesley McKenna Interview
HUCK grabbed a quick chat with British snowboarder and all-round authority figure, Lesley McKenna.
HUCK: What have you been up at The Brits?
Lesley McKenna: Well, I'm mainly here to compete in the Halfpipe but I also entered the Boardercross. It's been a few years since I've done it but it is great fun and such a good atmosphere. I'm also looking after three young Roxy-sponsored riders who are competing here as well.
HUCK: You came 3rd in the Boardercross, how was that?
LM: It was really great fun. I love getting to go head-to-head with other riders as it gives you a bit of a challenge. There were a few riders who had been competing in the Boardercross World Cup Tour. They tend to have longer and narrower boards which are more suited to racing so it makes it really tough to go against them. However, the atmosphere was amazing and it rubs off on the competitors. There were loads of thrills, spills and scuffles because the adrenaline was pumping and the riders got angry! It's supposed to be non-contact but sometimes you can't help banging into each other.
HUCK: What else are you looking forward to seeing this week?
LM: The Men's Halfpipe should be great but I'm really looking forward to seeing my friend Kate Foster ride. She competes in the World Cup and was at the Olympics as well. We are really good friends and push each other on. I've been competing for such a long time that it's good to know that when I decide to move away from competing, she will be there to hold the fort!
HUCK: What keeps you coming back to The Brits?
LM: It's all about seeing your friends as much as it is snowboarding. Some of the people you only get to see here because everyone is so busy. It's great to get ride again with people you did your first season with. It is also good to be involved in coaching the younger kids. It's something I love doing and am really passionate about. I really care about snowboarding and helping it develop - making sure the UK scene stays friendly and supportive. I don't want to ever see that change.
HUCK: How do you see British snowboarding developing in future?
LM: It's changed a lot in the last 10 years and now produces some real world-class riders. Jenny Jones is the British rider who is doing best in the world stage and I think she can become the best slopestyle rider in the world! Some may dispute that with me but she is definitely up there! I think it will just keep getting better. When you see 14 year old Jamie Nicholls going big and having so much enthusiasm, it's very promising!
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