Words and photos by Jack Ryan
Who is he? I’ve been following this elusive character for the last couple of years like David Attenborough filming a new season of Our Planet. And much like the cameramen on that show, I’ve spent days hiding in bushes and snow caves, observing his every move and trying not to spook him. Here’s what I’ve learned about him, his role in our world, and the effects of climate change (okay, maybe I’m stretching the analogy a bit).
Born and raised in Banff, Alberta Noah was a quiet and unassuming kid who just wanted to rip the hill. He made a bit of a name for himself doing just that—until one day, he suddenly up and moved to Revelstoke, BC. I’m told it was after an incident best described as a bloodbath involving a herd of cattle, a mo-ped, and a poorly built jump. Noah declined to comment.
Shortly after moving to Revelstoke, Noah assumed the name Johnny Tsunami. I imagine to try and escape his past life.
With his new alter ego, Johnny didn’t hold back. The guy can do it all—charging big alpine lines in Yukon Gold, sniping micro landings off massive pillows in Mind Surf, and sending enormous backflips at Cascade Powder Guides. He also has a promising acting career in front of him if he wants it, as demonstrated in Warren Miller's latest film.
During the summer, Johnny works at Terra Firma Farm in Revelstoke. Luckily for the local bovine community, it’s a vegetable farm. Though the chickens still seem a bit on edge when he’s around. When not at the farm, you’ll usually find him at the skate park or a backyard mini ramp.
After following around Johnny for so long, nothing surprises me anymore—whether it’s an impossible trick brought to his feet or his carefree approach to life. His style reminds us all to stop taking things too seriously, keep pushing ourselves, get creative, and have a good laugh with your mates.