U.S. Olympic Athletes

Elena Hight

 Snowboarding - Halfpipe

2006 Olympian

2010 Olympic hopeful

 Personal Specs

Height: 5'1"

Short List Performance

  • 2008 Vans Cup - champion
  • 2007 Winter X Games - third
  • 2007 Vans Cup - champion
  • 2006-2007 Chevy Grand Prix - second
  • 2006 Olympic Winter Games - sixth

 Vancouver Watch

Hight won her first pro competition in 2005, sweeping the Australian Open by winning both the halfpipe and slopestyle titles. A former member of the U.S. Junior National Snowboard Team, she progressed to make the 2006 Olympic Team at age 16, finishing sixth in halfpipe. She earned her bronze medal win at the 2007 Winter X Games after being the youngest female to land a backside 900 in halfpipe contest history.

 Personal

Hight may have had her first ride on a surfboard, but the Hawaii native has traded in waves for snowboarding, beginning the sport at six years old. At only 14 years old, she became a member of the U.S. Snowboarding Team. A halfpipe phenom, she is known for her spinning ability and consistency in her jumps.

 Did You Know...?

  • Suffered from four head injuries in 2003 that now require her to ride with a helmet at all times
  • Was previously a gymnast and credits the sport for her body awareness and flexibility in the air
  • Idea of relaxation is cooking
  • Member of the Volcom snow team
  • Listens to music before competition to distract herself from getting nervous
Image by Harry How/Getty Images