My friend Colin blogged about this over on ESPN, but I feel compelled to add my POV to his colorful commentary.

I've been to Japan and the friendly folks do indeed know how to enjoy themselves, with a peculiar sense of humor I might add. Anyone who's seen Most Extreme Elimination Challenge gets the idea. Beyond humor, the Japanese also have a love for snowboarding - a passion, in fact, of the highest order.

It was with such knowledge in mind that I laughed aloud at this little stunt, which artfully combines creative gamesmanship of the Far East ilk, with an ode to halfpipe performance. All integrated in a sweet illusion as pure as passion fruit.