If you follow Tactics, Transworld, or Snowboardermag on instagram chances are you have seen this back rodeo over the road gap by snow team rider Justin Norman. We met up with Justin on Saturday at Mt. Bachelor to chat with about what it was like leaving the NW for a week to snowboard Hawaii.
Where exactly did you go? Who all was in your crew?
I flew into Maui late Thursday night and flew out Friday morning headed to the big island to explore Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. Our plan was to go for a week total, spending most of our time working and riding, and the last two days at the beach surfing. I went over to Hawaii with two good friends, photographer Pete Alport and skier Lucas Wachs. The group dynamic was perfect because we work hard together and strive to reach our common group goal. 
You have been blowing up on social media with that backside rodeo over that road gap. How was it hitting that thing? How long did it take you guys to set that up?
We had talked about building a road gap since we had arrived but we wanted to make sure it was the right time so we didn’t get the boot. After coordinating with a group of outgoing locals, we started building it in what looked like the perfect location. The setup didn’t take us terribly long because of the massive snow drifts that accumulated. I was the first one to ginny pig it and after overshooting it I realized it was going to be perfect. I felt like we hit the timing of our trip perfectly because the snow immediately started to melt from the high heat.
Judging by the comments on the photos that Transworld and Snowboarder posted, everyone seemed pretty shocked at the amount of snow in Hawaii, How was the snow compared to snow here in the NW?
We had talked to a lot of locals that were blown away by how much had accumulated during the blizzard. Since the snow consistency varied from each aspect of the mountain, we were surprised to find chalky drifts of snow we could kick up and spray like powder. Our goal was to build jumps and it was good snow for that mission in places. Compared to the northwest, we thought the snow was almost better for building because it didn’t have crazy ice layers to break through underneath the surface layer.
What else did you do while you were there? You manage to catch any waves?
After we were done putting in work at in the mountains, we decided to check out black sand beach in the Waipio valley and skate at a local skatepark. The park was amazing! Lucas ripped the massive bowls while the onlookers at the park were in awe of his unique style and skill. Once we traveled back to Maui we met up with a few friends that showed us a few mellow spots to paddle around and try to catch waves. I had a pretty good time for sure but got slammed more than anything!
What is the next adventure you have planned?
My next adventure is unplanned at this moment. Every trip I have been on this year has come about from just being available and networking with people. I really want to take a few more trips this spring before the snowboard season transitions into summer livin. Thank you Tactics for the opportunity to share a little bit about my travels to the Hawaiian islands! Cheers
