Corey “Leeso” Leeson burst onto the international downhill scene last month at Newton’s Playground in Bathurst, Australia. In his first ever IGSA World Cup event “Leeso” qualified an astonishing third ahead of many veteran skaters including World #1 and #2 ranked Erik Lundberg and Mischo Erban.

In the semi-final round he was battling Lundberg, Ethan Lau and Pete Connolly when he suffered a huge crash in “Forest’s Elbow.” The crash left the Aussie knocked out cold for about ten minutes! Fortunately he suffered nothing more than a headache that lasted a few days. Leeso is looking forward to competing in more IGSA World Cup events later this season.

Leeson flying down the Con-Rod Straight at Newton's Playground, Bathurst, Australia. Photo Bill Fonseca

20 Questions: Corey Leeson 

1. Q: What sports do you compete in?
A: Downhill, Slalom and Giant Slalom.

2. Q: How long have you been riding and racing?
A: I started skating when I was 13 and have been competing in slalom for about four or five years now. Since we don’t get many downhill events in Australia this is my first year riding in IGSA Downhill events.

3. Q: What was your coolest moment in the sport?
A: It must be the whole Newton’s weekend at Bathurst. Having all the international riders turning up to our gnarly mountain was the best.

4. Q: What races do you plan to compete in this year?
A: I’d like to get over to Europe for the three World Cup events. If we can get some sponsors to help our little country out, you will see me at every single race.

5. Q: What are your goals for the 2008 season?
A: Just making it overseas to compete is my main focus. Any result from there would be a bonus. Oh and finishing in the Top 10 points would be pretty sick.

6. Q: What is your favorite event?
A: I’d have to say the thrill of downhill wins every time. You can’t beat that feeling of high speed.

7. Q: What kind of equipment did you use?
A: I’ve just started ridding a Kebbek Jon Caften deck with my old Force trucks and retro Big Zigs.

8. Q: Do you have any sponsors?
A: Sports Skins and Early Skateboards help me out with some gear but I have no major sponsors.

9. Q: Who are your favorite racers?
A: Since he has taught me most of his secrets I’d say my mate Steve Daddow has had the most influence on me.

10. Q: Where do you live?
A: Mermaid Beach, Gold Coast, Australia.

11. Q: When is your birthday?
A: December 21,1979.

12. Q: Are you married or do you have a girlfriend?
A: I have both a wife and a girlfriend...my wife is downhill riding and she gets first preference...and then my girlfriend if I have time!

13. Q: What’s your occupation?
A: Construction worker.

14. Q: What are your hobbies?
A: Skating, skydiving, scuba diving, art, fire twirling, drinking beer and ladies.

15. Q: Do you have a website, MySpace and/or facebook?
A: myspace… Leeso and facebook...Corey Leeson

16. Q: Do you have any pets?
A: A fish is all I have time for.

17. Q: What’s your favorite vacation spot?
A: Even though I live at the beach, any place that’s near the ocean and I’m set.

18. Q: What’s your favorite food?
A: You’re not an Aussie if you don’t love a meat pie.

19. Q: What’s your favorite music?
A: Punk, ska, and psychobilly but I have wide range of music.

20. Q: Do you have any heroes?
A:Steve Irwin. I’d love to have that much passion in life.