12.21.2011

James Kelly: Greener Pastures Episode 4

Skateboarding in Switzerland is undoubtedly one of the most incredible ways to enjoy perfect conditions in such an impressive environment. When the riders became comfortable with their sometimes testing, yet blissful situation the true personalities of their character and skating style were revealed.

FOR EPISODE 1 CLICK HERE

FOR EPISODE 2 CLICK HERE

FOR EPISODE 3 CLICK HERE

The astonishing connection with environment in the Alps showed just how rapid, and unexpectedly powerful storms can be. After being trapped by rain at one location for two days, we changed plans and ventured to Swiss wine country. This location became one of the best days of filming & skating on the trip.

There is nothing like a phenomenal landscape view that takes your breath away for kilometres on end while riding a mountain pass at +80km/hr. When you catch yourself standing up, jaw dropped gawking at the view of where you are, the tension is removed, spirits are elevated, and a privileged smile raises.

Thanks to the rad crew, South African, Canadian, Swiss who joined us on our last free-ride filming day.

The final episode of the series moves to the Czech Republic for Kozakov Challenge, the first European IGSA World Cup race of the season.

11.06.2011

Greener Pastures Episdoe 1 With James Kelly

Downhill skateboarding gives us the unique opportunity to search out our next skate location in some of the most unique and extreme places in the world.  Be it in our own town, country or making our way slowly uncovering the globe to embrace each opportunity to hone our skills.

This small country of Switzerland offers countless diverse challenges within a relatively short drive.  During the filming of Greener Pastures we covered one thousand kilometres traveling to each of the ten locations (not including skating) over thirteen days before making our way to Kozakov the first European IGSA World Cup race in Czech Republic.

In many cases traveling becomes more the adventure than skating, when in search of our next campsite, meal or stunning view.  “The van” becomes a place of refuge which all skaters can relate to.

In Greener Pastures a magic wheel is used to create a metaphor for how each of us are connected.  No matter who we ride for, what we ride, or how we ride it we are all brought together for a common passion.