REWIND A Diff Wild west. Photo: Taro Tamai t P spective in Valdez Words Taro Tamai IN THE SPRING OF 1993 , I landed alone at the deserted Valdez, AK, airport and drove up the highway to the mountains. As I went over Thompson Pass, I suddenly plunged into the heart of the Tsaina Valley. The sky-piercing peaks and looming steeps that I could only see by sticking my head out the car window had an overwhelming presence along both sides of the valley. My mind went beyond excitement to a place of calm. Reaching Tsaina Lodge, I parked my car. As I opened the heavy, crooked wooden door, the inside was dimly lit and little chilly, but I also sensed a unique heat radiating within. I took a step inside and it was as if I was entering a whole new world. Today, it is commonly understood that Alaska has some of the best slopes in the world. But when I first visited, it was still the pioneering days of riding there and I don’t think many people could say with confi-dence what it was that made it the best. Only a handful of snowboard-ers had the conviction in their hearts to ride there. Some were putting on a brave face, trying to escape the fear of being there. Most were just too occupied with taking care of themselves. I was also doing my best to maintain my serenity, but when I returned from the mountains after my first day riding, I slept deeply. THE SNOWBOARDER’S JOURNAL 105
The Snowboarder's Journal The Snowboarder's Journal 20.4: Page 105
