Ryan Hudson's path to becoming a professional snowboarder is far from ordinary. He grew up living in and out of homeless shelters in San Diego. By chance, he discovered snowboarding when a youth outreach program invited him to the mountains. When he stepped on a snowboard he was instantly hooked. That passion brought him out to Utah, ultimately landing a dishwashing job at the infamous Peruvian lodge in Little Cottonwood Canyon.
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After two years of riding 130 days non-stop at Snowbird, Hudson accumulated sponsorships and started competing. Now, on top of riding as much as he can, Hudson makes an effort to go back to San Diego to help get more low-income kids on boards. Jeremy Jones recently hosted Hudson on an Instagram live to hear his story, and explore ways the outdoor industry can make sports like snowboarding more inclusive.
About The Author
stash member Katie Lozancich
TGR Staff Writer and photographer. Fond of bikes, pow, and dogs. Originally from Northern CA, home for me has ranged from the PNW to a teepee in Grand Teton National Park.