CELEBRATING INSPIRATIONAL WOMEN

Georgia's Story

Name: Georgia
Rider Type: Snowboarder

1. Can you share your personal journey into free riding and what initially inspired you to explore the mountains?

My FreeRide journey started with my dad telling me tales about his backcountry adventures. He would tell me stories of the waist deep powder he floated in years ago in Canada and it always intrigued me as a kid. After college I knew I wanted to do a season, although I had never ventured pass the piste I soon grew addicted to the feeling of fresh snow beneath my board after the first snowfall of the season. Since then I have been hooked. Checking the snow report 24/7, researching for the best backcountry near me in the Three Valleys and looking at new gear designed for the pow. I feel a deep connection to nature and have a sense of adventure that fuels my love for snowboarding and for exploring the mountains.

2. What does International Women's Day mean to you, and how does your passion for the mountains fit into that celebration?

International Woman’s Day means a lot to me. It can be difficult to begin a male-dominated sport such as snowboarding, but seeing so many female snowboarders shred, such as Hana Beaman or Elena Hight, is really empowering. It has shown me that women belong in all spaces, including the backcountry.

3. Can you describe a memorable day or moment on the mountain that really captured the spirit of free riding for you?

Finding perfect powdery snow marshmallows just 5 minutes off piste and taking my work friends to the new “spot”. Discovering new lines and ideal jumps to send into fresh snow is the definition of a good day to me. The stoke was shared between lines with my friends as we lapped the lift all afternoon.

4. Have you encountered any challenges as a woman enjoying free riding, and how have you learned or grown from those experiences?

One of the biggest hurdles has been dealing with the stereotypes that come with being a woman in a male-dominated sport. There have been moments where I’ve felt underestimated or overlooked. However, these experiences have taught me a lot about resilience and confidence. I’ve learnt to fuck anyone who doesn’t believe in me! I’m so lucky I’ve connected with an amazing group of men and women who all love to board and ski, and encourage each other to become stronger riders.

5. How has being part of the free riding community, whether locally or through FreeRide Republic, enriched your overall experience in the mountains?

I can’t thank FreeRide Republic enough! They have shown me an insane sense of community within FreeRiding that I didn’t even know existed till now. Plus, they have shared their knowledge with me about how to stay safe in the backcountry, including using avalanche kit, and shared their knowledge about good spots to go to in the Three Valleys. Thank you guys!

6. In your view, what unique contributions do recreational free riders bring to the mountain culture, especially for women?

I believe recreational freeriders explore the mountain in their own way, leading to innovative riding styles and techniques. Furthermore, I think free riders often have a huge appreciation for the mountains, resulting in a common respect for other riders and the environment we ride in. 

Woman also bring their own contributions to the mountain culture, for example creating a sense of community for other women to feel comfortable in. This community is essential for the sustainability of free riding and can aid the growth of female riders.

7. What advice would you give to women who are curious about free riding but might feel hesitant to give it a try?

My best advice would be to always stay safe. Ride with people you trust and listen to what they have to say. Start on small terrain, just off piste from the groomers and work your way up. Stay positive and keep smiling, even after falling for the hundredth time. You are learning so it is natural to fall, don’t let this get in the way of a good day. Embrace the challenges and feel the stoke!

8. How do you balance the thrill of free riding with the importance of staying safe on the mountain?

As mentioned before, start small and work your way up. You should push yourself but also know your limits and only attempt lines that are within your ability. Make sure you’re always have the correct gear: TSP (transceiver, shovel, probe), helmet, goggles, warm jacket, gloves, etc. This will aid you to feel confident as well as safe. Always ride with a friend, not only to spread the excitement but also to provide support and to look out for each other in case of an emergency.

9. Who or what has been a significant source of support or inspiration on your free riding journey?

Arthur Longo, Jenny Jones, Wolle Nyvelt, Victor Daviet, and Marie France-Roy are just a few inspirations to me. Their fluid riding style and confidence on the board encourages me to practice snowboarding. Also, of course, my dad is a huge inspiration to me, his passion for the mountains is something I hope to embody. Plus, the constant stream of instagram reels of people getting fresh lines when there is no fresh snow always keeps me hyped!

10. What does your ideal day on the mountains look like, and what keeps drawing you back to this lifestyle?

My dream day is extremely unrealistic: 1 m + of fresh pow and not a soul in sight other than me and my friends. 

Knowing there is still so much to learn and explore will always bring me back to this lifestyle. I love taking part in a sport that connects me to other people and nature. The mountains are such a beautiful place and I feel so grateful to be a part of the FreeRide community.