Taylor Gold went from rookie to Olympian in 2014, and with wins at the Copper Mountain Grand Prix and the Burton US Open, Gold is quickly making his mark in halfpipe snowboarding. Steamboat Springs was reason enough for Gold to spend his time honing the techniques of riding, but it wasn't until seeing the sport during the 2002 Olympics in Salt Lake City that he decided he wanted to be a competitive snowboarder when he was seven. When he's not on the snow, Gold loves to jump on the trampoline, skateboard and play guitar. Gold is taking time in South America this summer to focus on snowboarding and prepare for the upcoming season.
Sport: Snowboard Halfpipe
How/when did you decide you wanted to compete: I decided that I wanted to compete after I watched the 2002 Olympics in Salt Lake. I thought that snowboarding looked really fun, and after a couple of years of riding, I was having an awesome time and wanted to try competing to progress my riding.
Biggest accomplishment in your career so far: I think winning the US Open has been my biggest accomplishment so far. Looking at the past winners, I consider myself lucky to be a part of a group like that. It's also one of the oldest snowboarding contests out there, and one started by snowboarders for snowboarders.
Favorite moment from Sochi: My favorite moment from Sochi, as cliche as it sounds, was walking into opening ceremonies. I've always dreamed of competing at the Olympics, and it's such a crazy feeling walking out with my teammates in front of the whole world.
Goals for next season: I want to add creativity to my runs, and do everything I can to be unique. I want to continue to go bigger, be consistent, and most importantly, stay healthy.
Favorite snow destination: Steamboat. I love going home. I ride all over the world, and I love exploring, but It's so fun to come home, know the spots, and be a tour guide for friends. Especially when we get a bunch of snow.
Favorite non-snow destination: Hood River, Oregon. Every summer we go to Hood to ride the glacier, but I love the town of Hood River for summer activities. There's so much to do, and there's a great vibe wherever you go.
Favorite candy: swiss chocolate.
If you weren't a professional athlete what would you be: I would be a college student with no idea what I want to do.
If you could have dinner with one person dead or alive, who would it be: Bill Murray
One thing you can’t live without: a suitcase
