Jamie Anderson has already won gold in South Korea and the 2018 Winter Games haven't even begun yet. At the official Olympic snowboarding slopestyle test event in PyeongChang last February, the 27-year-old from South Lake Tahoe reminded everyone that this is her sport. Being the first and only athlete to win Olympic gold in this discipline, which debuted nearly four years ago in Sochi, Russia, means she sort of owns it.
It's no secret that her hometown has been instrumental in making her a champion, which is why she launched the Jamie Anderson Foundation in 2013 to support youth to pursue their athletic dreams, too. In four years, the foundation has already helped 30+ winter sports athletes, providing them gear, season passes, and even financial aid to travel for competitions.
The 13-time Winter X Games medalist returns to her old shredding grounds as often as possible. Nothing like being home to inspire her to dream big—as in big air. Anderson is looking to dominate in the snowboard big air event, newly added to the Olympics for 2018. If there is anyone who can soar into first place, it's this superstar.
Where do you live? South Lake Tahoe
Why there? I am one of eight siblings. We all grew up in South Lake Tahoe, skiing and snowboarding at Sierra-at-Tahoe Mountain. My mom home-schooled me so that I could spend most days snowboarding at Sierra with my siblings. It is where I started my Olympic dreams.
Who or what is your greatest California love? Sierra-at-Tahoe Mountain, Fallen Leaf Lake, Emerald Bay
What is the biggest misperception about Californians? That we don't work hard. We just know how to find balance.
What is the stereotype that most holds true? That everyone is following a dream. So many Californians find something their passionate about and really pursue it.
What is your favorite Golden State splurge? Getting a cabin in the mountains. It is always such a great way to get a good night's sleep, meditate, and do some great snowboarding.
Time for a road trip—where are you going? Not too far, probably down the coast to visit my sisters who live in SoCal.
If you could decree an official state culinary experience, what would it be? Healthy! It is really easy to find pure, organic, whole foods in California. You are never far from a fresh juice or organic smoothie.
Best California songs? I can’t think of my favorite California songs [off the top of my head], but when I'm on the mountain, I love listening to hip hop.
How would your California dream day unfold? Dinner with friends and family, relaxing in my sauna or a nice hot spring. Near Mammoth Lakes, there are some amazing hot water springs that are relaxing and good for the soul and sore muscles.
How do you define California style? By the outdoors. You can do yoga, hiking, surfing, anything outdoors—almost year-round—[and dress accordingly]. It's amazing.