Lindsey Jacobellis Photo by Peter Foley

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Vermont resident and Stratton Mountain School graduate Lindsey Jacobellis is undoubtedly U.S. Snowboarding's queen of snowboardcross. In fact, one could say she rules the world of women's SBX - especially after her unstoppable 2004 season which included four World Cup wins, the X Games title (for the second year in a row) and victory at the U.S. Snowboard Grand Prix at Mammoth Mountain, Calif. That impressive list of results becomes even more awe-inspiring when Jacobellis' halfpipe record is added. That's right - this SBX warrior is a two-discipline champion with a 2004 World Cup halpipe win to her credit as well as the 2003 Junior World halfpipe title. As she gears up for the 2005 season, Lindsey took some time to reflect on last season, look toward the future and share some inside scoop on life as a snowboard champion.

USSA: After having the summer to reflect on last season, how would you describe your performance last season? What allowed you to compete at such a high level?

Lindsey Jacobellis: I was very fortunate to have had such a successful season last year. Traveling to every event last year was not only fun, but a valuable learning experience as well. To compete at such a high level you need to have confidence in yourself, knowing that you can achieve anything.

USSA: You are the only U.S. Snowboarding Team member to compete in two disciplines... Why? How difficult is it to prepare mentally and physically for two different types of competition?

LJ: I don't have a reason why other athletes don't compete in other events, I mean they are all capable, but they choose to be more sport specific. It is very difficult to do more than one event. It is very stressful on the mind and the body, but it also can have its perks.

USSA: How does U.S. Snowboarding, including your coaches and teammates, help you achieve your goals?

LJ: Having the opportunities to ride with the best riders in the country can help you push yourself and your riding as well. The U.S. Snowboarding coaches are always there to help you and to break down any trick or fundamental. They are constantly supportive and are there at every contest.

USSA: What has your "off-season" been like?

LJ: I was injured for the beginning of the summer (a recurring ankle injury) and was not really allowed to be a part of a scheduled training program. Lately I have been back on snow and able to do cross-training as well.

USSA: What drives you during SBX competitions? How do you keep up your focus and stamina from the first race through to the Finals?

LJ: Every race is a different feeling. During the first couple I don't feel that great... kind of sick to my stomach. Then once the gate drops my instinct takes over and I feel in control. When it comes to the Finals, it is a different feeling every time.

USSA: You used to also compete in alpine racing. Why not race anymore? Do you ever envision yourself competing in all three disciplines?

LJ: I used to, but I could not keep doing all three. It was too hard - too hard to carry all the different equipment to the events. I was not getting enough sleep the night before an event because I just had a race yesterday.

USSA: What are your goals for the 2005 season and what will it take to achieve them?

LJ: My goal is the make the Olympic Team for both halfpipe and SBX, and that will take non-stop training.

USSA: Despite the bulky snowboard clothing, anyone can see you're a fashionista! How do you funk up your outfits to show your style during competition?

LJ: I try to do little things that make me stick out more, whether it is something with my hair or with scarves.

USSA: Under category of "grass is always greener..." Did you ever wish you had straight hair? Ever had any hair disasters? How do you take care of your naturally curly locks?

LJ: I always knew that I had hair that was very rare. When I was little I hated it, but I don't mind now. Two years ago I donated 10 inches of my hair to Locks of Love and it made me feel so good to know that there was a child that would have my hair.

USSA: What's your favorite halfpipe trick to perform?

LJ: I enjoy doing the lofty 540.

USSA: What's your favorite feature on an SBX course?

LJ: Bank turns are my favorite because you can generate so much speed coming out of them.

USSA: What do you look for when inspecting an SBX course?

LJ: Places you can pick up speed.

USSA: What are some of the trials and tribulations of life on the road? What do you miss most and what do you consider the best part?

LJ: For everything that you gain there is something that you lose... Having the normal high school life was not an option in my case. I had to give up the hundreds of friends and only have the close few. The plus side of traveling was I got to make friends all around the world. So there is always some give and take.