Massachusetts: Shaun White Thrills At Boston’s Snowbound Expo
New England skiers and snowboarders are now fully prepared to hit the slopes. Snowbound Expo 2023 took place last weekend, with legendary snowboarder Shaun White thrilling the Boston crowd. Though…
New England skiers and snowboarders are now fully prepared to hit the slopes. Snowbound Expo 2023 took place last weekend, with legendary snowboarder Shaun White thrilling the Boston crowd.
Though the three-day event contained some of the biggest names in winter extreme sports, it was Shaun White closing out day two that served as the main event. In addition to taking the stage for an interview before a packed house, White was also spotted making other memorable moments. For example, White gifted a young fan named Carter an official Whitespace (White's brand) snowboard, signed by the legend himself.
"I had the honor of meeting Carter at the Snowbound Expo, and he actually has the same heart condition as me (TOF, Tetralogy of Fallot)," White posted to his Instagram shortly after the event.
As for the rest of expo, Snowbound came shredding into town stating, “Ignite your passion for winter and outdoor sports and join the community meet up of the year." Over 170 partners were in attendance for this event.
Interviews, Top-Gear, and Performances
Fans could check out some of the latest mountain gear and technology. Vendors set up booths with new products on display; some also had demonstrations available. The “retail zone” featured popular brands like K2 and Nordica. Popular New England area mountains and resorts were also onsite.
White's live interview on stage was part of the speaker series. World Cup skier Doug Lewis and Mary Walsh, the editor-in-chief of Snowboard magazine, hosted this portion of the event. Five-time Olympian snowboarder Lindsey Jacobellis, filmmakers (and pro skier) Alex Hackel, and “Mr. Giant Slalom” Ted Ligety also spoke and were interviewed live before the crowd.
Furthermore, Snowbound not only talked about what's new, they showed it live. Yes, with fake snow and constructed indoor rails. Gilson Snow hosted a “Rail Jam.” This custom art snowboard and ski company had professional snowboarders and skiers performing their best rail tricks.
Rail Jam
Photo courtesy of Snowbound Expo"Gilson Snow’s partnership with Snowbound Expo reflects their dedication to fostering a vibrant snow sports community in the region," Snowbound stated. Riders had the unique ability to ride skis and snowboards down the rails where they performed tricks before a live audience. To further wow the crowd, these tricks were landed on a turf style roll-out that laid on top of the concreate floor, as opposed to soft white snow.
Shaun White In The House
Photo courtesy of Snowbound ExpoThough he was not required to, nor was this advertised, White signed autographs after his interview on stage. White signed from the stage for those lucky fans that had the idea to hang around. Namely, all young fans that caught White's attention, were rewarded when they asked for a signature. White is a three-time gold medal Olympian. He retired from such competition last year, finishing 4th at halfpipe during the 2022 Beijing Olympics.
An Inside Ski Trail
Photo courtesy of Snowbound ExpoAn approximately 20-yard fake snow hill was installed inside the Snowbound Expo. Young skiers were able to slowly trek down the slope. In addition, there was a small rail for boarders to try. This too, allowed fans to hit a slope indoors while wearing a t-shirt. Snowbound Expo 2024 is already set. Mark your calendars for November 15-17, 2024 when the Expo is back at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center.
