What are you thankful for? On this "Thanksgiving eve" we want to remind everyone how blessed we are to have the ability to slide on snow, enjoy the mountains and hang out with friends.
In our second installment of "Learn to Pronounce It," we bring you a story that is much bigger than simply skiing. We all know that skiing is a high-risk sport and at times can even be life-threatening, and no one knows this better than Pekka Hyysalo.
If you were to have asked any skier last year who they should watch out for, they would have mentioned the Finnish star, Pekka Hyysalo. While filming for Flightlight Films shortfilm, Hello, this past spring, Pekka suffered a life threatening injury, over-roatating a switch double flip in Yllas, Finland. With doubles becoming more and more common, the perils become exponentially higher.
Pekka at the 2010 Jon Olsson Invitational
Now, months after the injury, Pekka is relearning to do some of the most basic daily functions we all take for granted. Sidelined by an unfortunate accident, possibly one of the most talented skiers to come out of Finland chatted with us about how he is doing, the little joys in life, how you can stay safe when riding, and where Santa Claus is really from.
Personal Info
Q&A
Pekka Hyysalo: It's going pretty well, although I'm still having difficulties with my memory and balance among other things. After five moths of hospitals and recovery center, I'm happy to be home.
PH: Always, ALWAYS wear a helmet. That saved my life. A back protector is also a good investment, it saved me from becoming paralyzed. Also, if the weather or setup feels too sketchy, think twice before jumping.
FS: Do you think the skiing is "progressing" to fast?
PH: Yes, a little, but that's the way it goes when you have a lot of talented guys pushing it harder than ever. I just hope it doesn't get to out of control and everybody stays safe. I would hate to see this same thing happen to somebody else.
PH: Yeah, there are a lot of guys killing it. I think anyone who has seen a Nipwitz episode or Hello! knows that Finland has a lot of talent in skiing and filming. Antti Ollila is definitely a name to remember, this young talent has a lot to show!
PH: Unfortunately, I would have to go with Norway. But just for now, my little bros are gonna take over in few years.
PH: Bobby Brown, he's just so talented.
PH: That Santa Claus doesn't live in North Pole, he lives in FINLAND!
PH: To my girlfriend Reetta who has been the biggest support ever, my family and friends who have helped me through rough times. Thank you so much!
