When I was 12 years old, I was hanging out with 23-year-olds. I was into cartoons and Pokemon, and they're all talking about girls. It was a strange way to grow up.
My dad got me a huge board when I was little. He loves to surf. He suited me up and sent me out on this huge wave. I went under, and when I came out and the board hit me in the face. So I said, I never wanted to do this again. I stayed away until I was 13.
There's always room for improvement, but the judges are looking for big airs and stylish tricks.
If you think I've got a lot of sponsors, you should see the stuff I turn down.
I was sponsored when I was about seven by Burton Snowboards.
You have to be prepared to take a spill.