Sliding down a snowy mountain, the wind in her hair, and a rush in her veins, senior Neah Tablit began her snowboarding journey in winter of 2022. She was first introduced to the world of snowboarding after a close friend invited her to join their family on a trip to the mountain. Despite being hesitant, she ultimately gained a newfound passion.

“The first time I went snowboarding was exhilarating, yet challenging,” Tablit said. “I had some falls and struggles, but I quickly adapted and found joy in the experience. By the end of the day, I was already looking forward to my next snowboarding adventure.”

Tablit’s friend, senior Allen Harina, taught her how to snowboard and has seen her grow throughout her journey.

“I made her watch a bunch of videos on snowboarding and I showed her what to do while pretending to be on a board,” Harina said. “When we went up, I first taught her heelside, which was a struggle for a bit. She mastered it after two hours and we were able to go faster and go up on the steeper slopes. Over multiple trips up the mountain, she got better and better and learned how to do toeside. Now, she’s learning how to carve, which is the last step for the basics.”

The winter season in Las Vegas isn’t extensive, so it limits her ability to participate in the sport. The desert environment in Las Vegas also only allows for very few snowboarding locations. She has only ever been snowboarding at Lee Canyon Ski Resort. Despite this, Tablit continues to exercise her passion for snowboarding with positivity.

“At times, I find myself longing to live in a place that allows for a better snowboarding environment,” Tablit said. “There are numerous ski resorts in other places that have a greater abundance of trails and lids. However, Lee Canyon suffices as a winter sports destination for me. While it may not offer the expansive terrain or variety as other resorts would, it provides a convenient and accessible option for enjoying snowboarding during the winter season in Vegas.”

This past January, Tablit went snowboarding for the first time since she began; this time going with a group of friends who were new to the sport.

“It was extremely fulfilling to be able to teach newcomers,” Tablit said. “At first it was difficult to teach them the basics of snowboarding and I got frustrated often. I also wanted to go on the higher mountains, but I needed to stay behind to help. However, it was worth the effort, laughter, and joy and it created stronger bonds between us.”

While she enjoys gliding down the slopes on her own, Tablit has a much more elevated and pleasurable experience when participating with friends.

“Whether reminiscing about our last trip, laughing about wipeouts, or planning our next adventure, the bonds forged through snowboarding with my friends will always hold a space in my heart,” Tablit said.

Snowboarding entails significant expenses, all of which Tablit has invested in.

“My Burton snowboard and bindings totaled $500,” Tablit said. “Other equipment, such as my boots, helmet, googles, bib, anc jacket, all total to another $500. My investment in these expenses ensures that I’ll be passionate about this sport for a while.”

Although snowboarding is only a hobby for Tablit, she can see herself continuing to pursue this passion in the future.

“It’s a thrilling activity I find immense passion in,” Tabit said. “I have never regretted snowboarding because it served as a trajectory for my personal growth, and I want to continue doing that. It has allowed me to gain new experiences, trust in my abilities, and step out of my comfort zone. I look forward to adventuring to different ski resorts around the world and improving my skills.”