Chris Rasman is taking measured steps down from a ridgeline in the Whistler, BC, backcountry, probe in hand. He’s assessing the landing of a jump, moving carefully to avoid straining the slope or putting tracks through the frame of the upcoming shot. The snow is wind-affected, with firm, rippled surfaces piercing traces of soft snow across the sweet spot. It’s a shame. This one was promising, but there’s powder in the bowl further down the slope. Ultimately Chris radios down to the crew that it’s a no-go. The news barely interrupts the banter of the homies below, a handful of fellow ManBoys and a few visiting pros. Rasman joins in over the radio: “Of course, anyone who’s in their 20s with an energy drink sponsor should be up here chucking nines…”

This is Chris’ natural environment, his happy place. The friendships he’s built with riding partners such as Travis Rice, Jody Wachniak, Matt Belzille, Beau Bishop, Mark Sollors, Robjn Taylor and Rusty Ockenden make it home. He’s joking about the 900, ribbing Sean Miskiman. The up-and-comer, who the ManBoys have mentored over the past few years, has some new stickers on his board. It’s no wonder those under Chris’ wing are doing well—he’s a leader out here, endlessly motivated, strikingly efficient and respected by his peers. With over a decade’s worth of hammer video parts, marquis projects under his belt, and a cover count matched only by his stack of era-defining clips, there’s no doubt that he’s earned his international shine.

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