110 THRASHER
COLD SNAP
George Watanabe
STORY AND PHOTOS BY RICHARD CHESKI
Known to many
in the skate
scene, but few
know of his
crossover
snowboard
talents. George
was born "some
time in the
1970s and cur-
rently resides in
Carson County,
So Cal, right out-
side the pleas
ant neighbor
hoods of East
LA. His expertise
and involvement
in skating
shaped his
younger years and helped him to discover snowboard
ing. George explains, "Snowboarding helps my skating,
and skating gives me the drive to snowboard." He adds,
"The comfort of soft powder landings as opposed to
concrete is a nice change."
Rather than asking George a bunch of set
questions to try to explain himself, we agreed to discuss
the trials and tribulations associated with the snow-
boarding and skateboarding scene. George is a silent
terminator, known for his aggressive riding ability and
love for big airs. If by chance he does not land a fat air or
tree-slide, he will try it till he sticks it. George likes
challenges, and when riding with him, he always looks for
the crazy tree-slides and large cliff drops. His attitude of
"I would go if I was you" drives others to attempt what
only George can complete.
George is happy with the progression of both
skating and snowboarding. George states, "You have to
roll with the punches," meaning the progression in both
sports leads him to continually push himself. "Busting is
what it is all about!" George has travelled the world
skating and snowboarding. His life experiences and skills
have created a unique and talented individual. It is hard
to explain George. He is a true individual who does not
follow trends. He has no pressure and no worries. New
lines on the mountain or the street, he is constantly
seeking to advance his talents.
On a personal note, George and I have
travelled around the globe together, searching for new
powder fields filled with gaps, cliffs and lofty airs.
Capturing George's determination on film has been a
pleasure, as well as an inspiration. Words explain
meaning, pictures captivate action, and these two
elements expose his mechanics. George explains the fun
and freedom of snowboarding in one nice quote: "It is all
quiet and shit up there in the air," speaking of his need
for peaceful air time. "Actions speak louder than words,"
and George is full of actions.