Younger days
Rocky Mountain House, AB
I was born and raised in Rocky Mountain House, Alberta. My two brothers and I spent a lot of time playing outside. Our parents encouraged us to use our imaginations and stay active. I played many sports from swimming to hockey; baseball, soccer, gymnastics and dance.
I learned to snowboard at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort at age 10, but I never got really good at the basics. Growing up in Rocky, elite training programs weren't available for snow sports. So I put my energy elsewhere...
I spent middle school & highschool playing more accessible sports. Basketball was my favorite. I was able to travel to Lake Louise, AB to snowboard on some weekends, but I remained cautious; in fear of getting injured and not being able to play ball.
Fresh adult ways
Kelowna, BC
From 2012-2015 I owned and operated a small business with my younger brother, we called it
QK Lawn Care. Together we maintained 36 properties May-October. I moved to Kelowna, BC in November of 2014 and I spent most of my time on the slopes during the 2014/15 season. I had seen a couple snowboardcross competitions in Big White and I was always drawn to the adrenaline rush. I had a need for speed... (maybe that's why I was nicknamed KenBlock)
In 2017 I attended post-secondary at MC College Kelowna. I pursued a trade as a Hairstylist. I also spent a lot of focused time on the slopes, with friends who encouraged me to compete; after entering a fun race in Big White.
Competition Craze
Big White, BC
Every part of my life brings me back to snowboarding. After competing for fun, I got in touch with the Executive Director of BC Snowboard & entered into a Provincial series in March of 2018. I was excited and terrified all at once.
I peed my pants a little in that first race... I knew I was in the right place.
I was the eldest competitor at this event, and the younger girls were fierce. I placed 1st in race #1 and 2nd in race #2. The coach that mentored me here, suggested I compete in Western Canadian Championships the following week. It was there that I saw what the sport was REALLY like. Specialized race boards, coaches brushing wax out of boards seconds before heats were dropping, and Olympic athletes from the 2018 Winter Games.
I placed second last... BUT I got to watch the racing, see, feel and hear the intensity. I also met a coach who has played a key role in my personal-development, on and off the sbx track. I didn't know who they were at the time, however, I admired the way they critiqued the athlete's ability. I was drawn to their constructive criticism and apparent knowledge of the sport.