By Barrett Christy
Winter X Games 2015 has begun. It’s hard to believe I’ve been coming to these things since the first one in 1997. The evolution it’s undergone to modern day extremes is a very good thing. It’s come a long way since modified shovel racing and mini skis. The progression of the athletes has been amazing to watch too, and I am here as a fan as much as a team manager.

The B4BC benefit always opens up my X Games experience and this year was a special one. The event started with the premier of Chasing Sunshine, a film documenting my close friend and longtime Gnu rider Megan Pischke’s journey with cancer. Everyone watching went on the emotional journey with her from her diagnosis to recovery. It was a very real life look at cancer, the rigors of treatments and the beautiful side of survival. It was tough to watch Megan go through it all, but in the end it was a celebration of survival and Megan’s humor and grace inspired us all to live our lives with intention and appreciation for all that we have.

After tears flowed, the whiskey flowed at the B4BC benefit and silent auction. A Gold ed. Jamie Anderson Ladies Choice and lots of photography and prints from ASYMBOL artists were bid on to raise money for the Chasing Sunshine project. X Games elite, Olympians, and snow industry party people came out in support of the cause and Megan’s story with a happy ending set us all up for an exciting beginning to X Games 2015.