ASPEN, Colo. — The X Games are known for being all about energy - loud music, big tricks, fun celebrations. But some of the biggest energy on the first day of competition came from a snowboarder named Cody Field, who took part in the Special Olympics unified snowboarding event.
“I am super excited to be on this course!” the 26-year-old told Denver7.
Field has autism. He’s been snowboarding for about 10 years, and 2019 marks his fifth appearance at the X Games.
This year, each Special Olympics athlete was paired with an X Games athlete or Paralympian for a teammate in the slalom race.
“My face hurts from smiling so much,” said Amy Purdy, Field's partner.
Purdy is a Paralympic medalist, a double amputee, and a former contestant on Dancing with the Stars.
“We’re all competing alongside each other. We’re all rooting each other on," she said. "It doesn’t matter what organization you come from, we’re all in it together and having so much fun."
The pair were joined by fellow athlete Joey Franken, X Games gold medalist Silje Norendal and athletes from all across the country.
Purdy and Field didn’t medal, but if you ask them, that doesn’t matter.
“My heart is so full,” said Purdy.