Click this photo to watch a video of Kimmy discusses her passions for snowboarding and biking. Specialized Bicycles have been a huge part in her recovery. Photo: Sterling Lorence

Biking to me is a form of meditation. Something about the continuous motion of pedaling brings a peace to my mind that only snowboarding usually brings me. Pedaling it out grounds me and gives me a chance to be in the moment without any other distractions. On top of this it’s a great form of low impact cardio, which is always good for our joints. Living in the small mountain town of Mammoth Lakes, CA, has given me the ability to enjoy long road rides on my road bike or fun flowing single tracks on my mountain bike. And though, not all of us are able to live in the mountains with the freedom to do both; road and mountain bike, we all can share the joy of riding a bike.

Do you own a bike? If so, do you prefer road biking or mountain biking? For some, biking is their cardio workout, others use biking as a way of transportation, and then there are those who share the same passion for it as I do. It’s an outlet for me to find a sound mind. It’s also a huge part of my cardio workout, which can be challenging, or it can be healing because of its continuous flow of energy.  Biking just feels good and gives everything in my body a chance to work together. Now more than ever, biking has become my best friend.

For those of you who aren’t aware, in December of 2012, I tore the ACL, MCL, and PCL ligaments in my knee and am on a yearlong rehabilitation program and off snow for that time as well. This injury was devastating for the obvious reasons; I couldn’t snowboard this season, and on top of that, I had to sit back and let go of all the things I had planned to do this year. Now my main focus is healing my knee and getting it back to 100% strength.

Kimmy with the Rumor Mountain Bike

That’s where my relationship with biking comes back into the picture. As I began my path to healing, an opportunity to team up with Specialized Bicycles came about and with their help I am digging deeper into my passion of biking. As I heal I have been given more freedom to doing some of my favorite activities; one of those is mountain biking. Specialized just launch an all-new women’s full suspension 29inch wheel mountain bike called the Rumor. I have been slowly making my way back onto the trails around Mammoth and realized I needed more girlfriends out there to do this amazing sport with. Therefore, I wanted to start sharing my story of recovery, but also my passion for biking, so hopefully I can cross paths with more women out on the trails. So who is in? Lets all pull out our bikes and join together and get out on the open roads or on your favorite single tracks. ‘Tis the season to start spinning our wheels again! When in doubt, pedal it out.

Watch this for more about my collaboration with Specialized:

Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance you must keep moving.” Albert Einstein

Kimmy rides a Specialized Ruby road bike to stay in shape during the off-season, and now she rides in the mountains year-round on the new Specialized Rumor mountain bike (when not on her board). Follow Kimmy’s story as she overcomes injury, improves her fitness and discovers the joys of mountain biking. Photo: Sterling Lorence

R: Enni Rukajarvi Photo: Huggy

Kimmy Fasani created Amusement Park as an end of the season opportunity for female snowboarders to come together and hit big, technical features designed to provide a stomping ground for progression. John Cavan, SNOWBOARDER Magazine’s Online Video Producer, and I were invited to come shoot the riders as they sent it off a massive 70-foot jump and giant hip. Not only did we witness some really sick riding over the course of the event, but we got to see these women, many of whom have to have their games faces on during the season when their schedules are filled with competitions, ride in a more relaxed and less stressful environment. Kimmy’s event created a truly fun atmosphere for the riders. Huggy/Photo Editor at Snowboarder Magazine

“I think it’s important for ladies to have multiple opportunities throughout the season to throw down and progress on big, safe, jumps and unique features. Amusement Park was created to give the women another spring-time park progression session where they could ride together, push themselves, and stack shots. The more we get to ride big features, the more we will progress.” – Kimmy Fasani

Here’s a bit about the event from Kimmy:
Amusement Park is designed to be a laid back environment for the ladies to come together, stack photos and video footage, while charging big features. The main focus this year was to build a large picturesque jump and a fun hip on the backside of Mammoth Mountain. With no hesitation, Mammoth’s stellar park builder TJ Dawoud, along with the Mammoth Unbound crew, accepted the task and built an incredible jump and hip. This week-long spring session was intended to wrap the season up with good vibes and bangers in the bag, and the ladies did just that. With style and ease, each one of them put their stamp of approval on the features. Not only did these ladies have a good time, I think they also made some guys a little envious.

An amazing group of ladies! Photo: Peter Morning

Photos: Gabe L’Heureux

Early this season about 25 women were hand picked by Donna Carpenter and invited on a trip of a lifetime to Baldface Lodge in British Columbia (BC), Canada. With an amazing season behind us, and full-fledged spring upon us the trip had finally arrived.  We traveled from places all over the world, and greeted each other in Nelson, BC. For some this was their first time to BC, others had never been cat boarding, and most had thought their dream of being in a helicopter was never going to come true. Therefore, this trip was a chance for an incredible group of women to check off a heavy list of firsts.

We gathered at a quaint airport on the Shore of Kootenay Lake and before we knew it we were whisked away in helicopters to this far away lodging in the middle of the wilderness. As we came in for landing everyone gasped at the breathtaking views and the serene lodge and cabins that were all blanketed in snow. The somewhat surreal feeling settled in and we realized the next three days were going to be heaven.

After a tour around the beautiful lodge and introductions to the staff we sat back to soak it all in. To each of the ladies surprise, they were also given (or gifted) the brand new women’s powder board, the Day Trader, which is an exciting addition to the Family Tree line for next year.

This trip had only just begun but already has outdone everyone’s expectations. With three days of riding and lounging in the sun ahead of the crew, we were bound to exhaust the last bit of energy winter had to offer. As the first night winded down, the hashtag of #BurtonBaldfaceBabes was claimed and gained steam quickly.

The rest of the trip has consisted of fun days on the hill searching for stashes of powder, a BBQ at the top of the world, bronzing at lunch, lots of laughs, evening cocktails, lumber jack games, fabulous meals, and of course a constant outpouring of immense gratitude to the women behind this great idea.

One of the many perks of riding for a company like Burton is that they fully and whole-heartedly support women’s snowboarding. The voice behind that determination and commitment is Donna Carpenter, who is an inspiration, a leader, a friend, and one hundred percent dedicated to making women an equal amongst men in snowboarding. Because of her so many of us have had the ability to chase dreams and be involved in snowboarding. This trip is just another way she is giving back to all of us who are so grateful for what she has done!

Thank you Donna, Burton Snowboards, and Baldface for an amazing trip!

B4BC Team Rider Kimmy Fasani to Host Shred the Love Mammoth,

the Final Stop of the 2013 Shred the Love Winter Series on May 3 & 4

Two-Day Athlete-Studded Affair to Benefit B4BC’s Year-Round Education and Prevention Programs and Mammoth Hospital Cancer Outreach Programs

Photo: Peter Morning

What: Join B4BC team rider and pro snowboarder Kimmy Fasani as she Shreds the Love for B4BC on May 3-4 at Mammoth Mountain. Fasani, along with husband and pro skier Chris Benchetler, will wrap the 2012–2013 snow season at Mammoth Mountain as hosts for the final stop of B4BC’s 2013 Shred the Love Winter Series.

The two-day event will kick off with a silent auction benefit dinner at the Underground Lounge on Friday, May 3. On Saturday, May 4, festivities will kick off with a morning B4BC Yoga Heals session with local yoga instructor Kathy Dolan of Class It Up Fitness at the Village, followed by a Ride Day that will include a Lap-a-Thon and race course open to the public.

Friends of B4BC and Kimmy that will be in attendance include B4BC team riders Hana Beaman, Elena Hight and Kaitlyn Farrington along with pros Jamie Anderson, Kelly Clark, Gretchen Bleiler and more.

All proceeds will benefit B4BC’s year-round education and prevention programs, with B4BC donating a portion of the weekend’s contributions to Mammoth Hospital Cancer Outreach programs.

When: Friday, May 3  – 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

It’s Personal Dinner – Silent Auction, Ride-with-a-Pro Auction, Meet ‘n Greet with Pros in an intimate dinner setting at Underground Lounge in the Village (6201 Minaret Road, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546).  A limited number of tickets are available for purchase in advance for $100.

Saturday, May 4

9 a.m.-10 a.m. – B4BC Yoga Heals with Kathy Dolan at The Village Main Plaza (6201 Minaret Road, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546).  Open to the public with a suggested donation of $10.

Shred the Love Mammoth Event, Hosted by Kimmy Fasani & Chris Benchetler

11 a.m.-1 p.m. – Lap-a-Thon at Main Lodge: Chair 1

$50 Fundraising Minimum (Advance registration required – details below).

10 a.m.-12 p.m. – Open Race Course at Main Lodge, with check-in by Chair 1.

Open to the public with a suggested donation of $10.

Ticket & Registration info:

Create your personal fundraising page to participate in Shred the Love Mammoth and be in the running for top prizes and awards at http://www.stayclassy.org/fundraise/team?ftid=16937

To purchase tickets to the “It’s Personal” Dinner:  www.stayclassy.org/B4BCKimmyFasani

Ride Day Details:

From 11 a.m.-1 p.m., registered participants who have fundraised at least $50 can compete to complete as many laps on Chair 1 as possible during the two-hour time frame on skis or a snowboard. Skiers and riders can participate on their own or as part of a relay team. Prizes will be awarded to the individual who completes the most laps, as well as the three top fundraisers. The race course will be open to all from 10 a.m.-12 p. m. with a $10 donation to opt in.

Additional Info:

Event partners for Shred the Love Mammoth hosted by Kimmy Fasani include Mammoth Mountain, TWSnow, Zico and more. For more information about B4BC or about the Shred the Love Winter Series, go to www.b4bc.org.

About Shred the Love:

Shred the Love is a way of being—healthy, active and aware. The goal of the Shred the Love campaign is to promote a healthy, active lifestyle during the winter season through community activism in support of B4BC’s education and prevention efforts. At least 30 percent of funds raised will be donated to local non-profit organizations that align with B4BC’s mission. Mountain resorts, winter enthusiasts, industry partners and local businesses are encouraged to participate in board-a-thons, women’s week activities and online fundraising pages, hosted by B4BC. Now in it’s third season, Shred the Love is an open invitation for friends everywhere to get on board and win sweet prizes along the way. The last stop of the Shred the Love Winter Series is at Mammoth Mountain on May 3-4, 2013.  Register to get involved at http://www.stayclassy.org/fundraise/team?ftid=16937

Photo: Blotto
Click the photo above to see the interview and slide show on Prettytough.com

BASICS:

 Name: Kimmy Fasani

 Sport: Snowboarding

 Nickname: Kimmy

 Birthdate: 04/25/1984

Birthplace: Truckee, CA

Home Mountain: Mammoth Mountain

 Twitter @KimmyFasani

LIKES/DISLIKES:

Favorite Riders: Kelly Clark and Annie Boulanger. Kelly’s ability to focus on pushing limits in the halfpipe and her dedication to keeping her body strong on and off the hill is inspiring. Annie changed the game in the back country by charging lines and hitting big features.

Favorite Sports Moment (as a fan and/or rider): Watching women progress the sport and push their limits. Kelly Clark’s 1080 in pipe, Elena Hight’s Double Alley Oop Rodeo in Pipe, Aimee Fuller doing double backflips in the park, and Janna Meyen-Weatherby doing a cab 900 at X Games; these have all been incredible moments for women’s snowboarding.

Favorite Workout Music: Pop and Hip Hop music with my Skullcandy Headphones. They keep me going.

Hobbies and Interests: Writing, biking, yoga

Favorite Books/TV Shows: Books-Hunger Games Series, Mind Gym, and TV show: Gossip Girl

Pet Peeves: Crumbs left on the counter and dishes left in the sink

One thing always in your fridge: Almond Milk

Fave quote or inspiration: “There’s a difference between interest and commitment. When you’re interested in doing something, you do it only when it’s convenient. When you’re committed to something, you accept no excuses; only results.” – Kenneth Blanchard

Fave board? Any other shout outs for gear? I have three favorite Burton boards. For open powder faces and steep trees I love the new women’s Day Trader, which is a women’s all mountain board that will be on shelves for public next season. I also ride the Burton Lipstick for jumping in the back country, and the Burton Déjà vu in the park.

I also live in Burton’s AK outwear. This line is reliable, keeps me warm and dry, and is breathable. I can spend all day in the back country and know that my gear will do what it needs to, so I can focus on my snowboarding.

My Zeal optics Slate goggles are another must have everyday in the back country with great peripheral and the lens makes it possible to see even in flat light.

BACKGROUND/PERSONAL:

First snowboarding memory? I remember my first snowboard lesson at Soda Springs on Donner Summit in Truckee, CA. I was so excited to link my first turns. 

How would you describe your style? My style is a mix between feminine and functional. I am not a trend-setter but I wear clothes that have good cut lines and keep me warm and dry. I like wearing pop colors, but occasional will be riding the park in all black.

Describe a perfect day.  A perfect day would be lapping Mammoth Mountain on a beautiful powder day with my friends. 

If I wasn’t a snowboarder my dream job: A Doctor or a Mountain Guide

Special or secret talent: I was a gymnast for 10 years.

Lucky charm, superstition or pre-comp ritual: I wear a St. Christopher necklace when I’m riding.

One thing people might not know about you? I am married to a professional skier.

How would your mother describe you? Kind, Happy, Outgoing, Energetic, Loyal, and Sincere

What were you like as a teenager? What is the biggest regret you had in your adolescence? I was a pain when I was a teenager. I was always trying to push my mom’s buttons and test her boundaries. I only wish I spent more time in the mountains adventuring and exploring when I was younger.

Superhero or Princess? Which do you identify with most?  Superhero! I want to think of myself as a strong, fierce, independent superhero, who can do anything I put my mind too. 

What makes you Pretty Tough? I love that I can be feminine on and off the hill with how I look and with what I wear, however, when I’m snowboarding I am tough and focused. I can take hard falls and get back up to try again. I don’t give up and I know the importance of spending countless hours in the gym. I hope that I can inspire other girls to be girly and still be tough at the same time. Just because we are girls doesn’t mean we can’t do what the boys do. 


COMPETITION HIGHLIGHTS:

I was nominated for Transworld Snowboarding Magazine’s 2012 Women’s Rider of the Year, Standout Performance, and Female Readers Choice. I was also the Miss Superpark Standout
 from Snowboarder Magazine in 2011.

PRO CAREER

Do you consider yourself a pioneer in the sport? Why/why not? No, I don’t see myself as a pioneer because the women that came before me deserve that title. They are the ones who opened the door to all of us who are now pushing limits. I am just happy to be recognized as  being part of the progression of our sport.

You’ve had your share of injuries. Besides physical rehab, how do you mentally recover? The mental side of injuries is the hardest part but keeping a positive attitude is very important. Trusting that new opportunities will present themselves through injuries also helps my mind during the down time.  Good things will always come if you believe it.

What is the biggest challenge female riders face? Do you think women will ever ride at the same level as men? How do you gain the respect of guys you ride with?

I think the biggest challenge female riders face is the fast progression of the sport. I think it’s important for girls to push themselves but only when they are ready, confident, and comfortable. I believe that women are capable of anything they put their mind to and if that means riding at the same level as the guys, then so be it, it’s just going to take us longer to get there. For women to gain respect with guys they just have to ride hard and eliminate the drama. As long as you’re out there having fun, it’s all good.

You are married to a pro skier. Does that present any conflicts of interest?

Being married to a professional skier is the best thing I could imagine because he understands why I need to travel and I understand his schedule. He is a huge inspiration for me and has helped me become the rider I am by giving me advice and encouragement.

What was the best piece of advice you ever received? From whom?   My mom always told me to “stay positive and to avoid situations that would possibly jeopardize my reputation.” This advice has helped me stay grounded and focused on what I want to accomplish. 

What would you tell your 12 year old self about pursuing a career as a professional athlete? Have fun and follow your passions. Enjoy the journey and know that your hard work will pay off. 

Do you have any causes or charities close to your heart? Yes, B4BC (Boarding for Breast Cancer) is a cause I heavily support. I am so inspired to reach out to help girls learn about cancer and how to keep their bodies healthy. By teaming up with B4BC I am able help spread the word that living an active and healthy lifestyle and self checks can help protect you from cancer.

COMPLETE THESE SENTENCES:

Success is … being happy.

Happiness is … living life to the fullest and being outdoors.

My greatest fear is … big spiders.

My biggest challenge is … overcoming fear and injuries.

Which would you choose?

Facebook or Twitter? Facebook
Diamonds or Pearls? Diamonds
Goofy or Regular? Goofy
Dogs or Cats? Dogs
Sweet or Savory? Sweets from Mimi’s Cookie Bar
Rom-Coms or Horror flicks? Rom-Coms

 This Asian inspired vegetable dish is a fun and delicious way to start making sushi at home without needing to find sushi-grade fish. Invite some friends over and everyone can create their own combination of vegetables. This is also an inviting way to introduce people to sushi that don’t like fish. Once you have mastered this recipe without rice, you can simple add in rice to make real vegetable sushi.

Ingredients:

4 sheets nori

4 large, collard greens or romaine lettuce leaves

1 ½ cups carrots, thinly sliced

1 ½ cups radish, thinly sliced

1 avocado, thinly sliced

1 ½ cups jicama, thinly sliced

2 cups sprouts

¼ cucumber, seeded and thinly sliced lengthwise

½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced

½  cup hummus

2 teaspoons sriracha or other hot sauce

1.     Layout the nori sheets on a clean, dry surface. Spread some hummus on 1/2 of the Nori and arrange ½ a collard green or romaine lettuce leaf lengthwise on the hummus. Cover ½ the nori sheet that’s nearest you. These leaves will strengthen the nori when the vegetables are rolled up in it.

 2.     Place a narrow layer of the carrots along the length of each nori sheet, about ½ inch from the end closest to you. Top with the radish, jicama, avocado, sprouts, cucumber, bell pepper, and a thin line of sriracha. Keep all these vegetables in a narrow pile on top of the collard green/romaine lettuce (all the veggies in this recipe can be substituted for whatever is in season at the grocery store).

3.     Fold the edge of the nori closest to you over the filling. Gently roll each nori away from you, tightly and evenly, into a firm, snugly wrapped roll. Seal the exposed edge of the nori to the roll by smearing a little more hummus on the edge.

4. Cut each roll into two pieces with a sharp serrated knife.

5. Serve with soy sauce, sriracha, and/or hummus.  Enjoy!

Tip: To add rice to these rolls simply make a pot of rice with a little extra water so it’s moist. Spread another layer of hummus on top of the collard green/romaine lettuce and then spread a thin layer of rice all over the nori. Follow the same guidelines for rolling the sushi up. You can cut these into bite size pieces instead of hand-rolls.

The season is sneaking up and that means it’s time to get our legs ready for the slopes. One of my favorite, outdoor and quick, full body workouts is running stairs. This quick and adaptable cardio blast gets your heart pumping, legs burning, and sizzles calories. By adding pushups, crunches, dips, and lunges I walk away feeling like I have hit a lot of major muscle groups. Now all you need to do is find a steep flight of stairs.

My go to stair set is at The Westin Monache Resort in Mammoth. These 73 stairs have been a fall training ground for me, Kelly Clark, and my husband, Chris Benchetler. We pick a goal of how many flights we will do, which could start anywhere between 10, 15, 20, 25, and then we add in sit-ups, pushups, dips, at the end of every set of 5.

Some things to look for in a good set of stairs are: 1. At least 60 steps because you want to feel your legs burn. 2. The Steeper the set of stairs the better and the harder the workout becomes. 3. Limited crowds, which will give you more space to go fast.

Workout:

* Walk the flight of stairs 1-3 times as a warm up. This will also give you a chance to evaluate the stairs: steepness, amount of stairs, and condition of stairs.

1. Run up stairs hitting every stair with alternating feet

• Walk or Jog stairs back down to the bottom

1. Run up stairs hitting every other stair with alternating feet (Skipping a step)

• Walk or Jog stairs back down to the bottom

1. Run up stairs hitting both feet on every step (quick feet)

• Walk or Jog back down to the bottom

1. Hop up stairs with both feet, and skip a step with each hop.

• Walk or Jog back down to the bottom

1. Lung up stairs, alternating legs, and skipping 1 to 3 steps depending on steepness.

* At the end of the set of 5 flights, find a space out of the way and do 20 crunches, and 10 pushups.

*Do this set of 5 and repeat as many times as you feel comfortable. Remember, your goal can be 1 set of 5. Also, please modify any of the above if you need to and don’t forget to stretch after your workout.

Tips for stair workouts:

1. Pick a goal of how many flights you want to accomplish: Mine vary from 10-30 flights

• Be realistic. If this is your first time running stairs, give yourself a low goal 5-10. This could also apply if the stairs are steep. After a few times of running stairs you can adjust your goal to fit your workout.
• Running stairs doesn’t have to mean “running”, take your time to figure out how it feels.
• Bring water to sip on in between sets.
• Don’t forget to stretch out your legs and calves after your workout to avoid cramping.

Fall is here!! The leaves are turning, the air is getting crisp, winter is sneaking up, and the cool air is making us crave warm comfort food. Thank goodness it’s the season of ‘squash and pumpkin! Here is a fun fall vegetable twist on the traditional tamale recipe. This is a wonderful entrée to pair with black beans, rice, and chips and salsa.

Inside Ingredients:
1 acorn squash
2 avocados, diced
1 jalapeno pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 ½ tablespoon cumin
1 tablespoon chipotle powder
1 tablespoon chili paste
1 teaspoon salt
¼ to ½ bunch of cilantro, chopped
2 cups cheese, grated (if desired-pepper jack or cheddar are my favorites)

Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350 F.
2. Cut the squash in half and de-seed. Place cut side down on baking sheet, add an inch or so of water and bake until soft, about 30-40 minutes.
3. Remove squash from oven and scrape the meat into a bowl and set aside. (keep the oven on for steaming the tamales).
4. Sauté garlic and jalapeno with olive oil until translucent (2 minutes). Add these to the squash.
5. Add remaining spices, chili paste, and maple syrup to the squash and add stir until mixed. Mix in desired amount of cilantro as well.
6. Keep avocado and cheese separate for next step.

Corn Dough:
2 cups masa (corn) flour (makes about 10-14 dough balls depending on husk size)
1 ¼ cups, warm
¼ teaspoon salt

1. Combine the above ingredients and mix thoroughly for about 2 minutes to form soft dough. If dough feels dry add more water, one tablespoon at a time. *Dough needs to be pliable and a medium consistency. Not too dry and not sticky. Divide dough into about 10- 14 balls. Place all portioned dough into a bowl with a damp warm dishtowel over the try to keep them from drying out.

Making the Tamales:
Note: If you’re using green corn husks, freshly shucked from corn, there’s no soaking needed, however, if you’re using dried corn husks, make sure to soak the husks for few hours prior to use.

1. Prepare a deep baking dish with a cooling rack in the base. Place about 1 inch of water in the base of the pan. This will be where you steam the tamales. Make sure the oven is still heated at 350 F.
2. On the counter, lay out a few husks and spread a ball of corn dough flat over three quarters of each husk, leaving empty space around three sides.
3. Place a small spoon of filling in the middle and make a slight pocket lengthwise and fill with cheese and avocado.
4. Roll towards the empty side of the husk and twist and tie the ends. Also, tie a few pieces of extra husk strands around the tamale so it won’t unwrap while steaming.
5. Place each tamale on the cooling rack in the baking pan side-by-side, seams up, cover dish with foil and steam in oven for 15-20 minutes. Tamales are done when cheese is melted inside. For these photos I did not use cheese.