Winter storms can bring chaos to urban life, but they also create unique opportunities for spontaneous fun. This past weekend, New York City experienced a major winter storm that blanketed Central Park in nearly a foot of snow, transforming it into a snowy playground. Among those who seized the moment was none other than legendary snowboarder Shaun White, renowned for his Olympic prowess and gravity-defying stunts.
On Sunday, January 25, in an unexpected display of athleticism, White took to the snow-covered expanses of Central Park for an impromptu snowboarding clinic, showcasing moves that would be right at home in the Olympics. With fans gathered around, the park soon turned into an ad-hoc snowboard terrain, setting the stage for an unforgettable spectacle.
As people marveled at the snowy landscape, White, sporting a mask and goggles, began dazzling the crowd with an array of 360s and front flips. Each trick was met with gasps and cheers from spectators, who quickly recognized the unmistakable flair of the three-time gold medalist. “That’s gotta be Shaun White!” exclaimed one observer as White executed a particularly impressive aerial maneuver, captured on a viral video shared by NBC 4 New York.
The disbelief among the crowd only deepened when White removed his gear, revealing his identity. “Are you f—ing kidding me?” a woman exclaimed, representing the collective shock of those lucky enough to witness this extraordinary moment in the heart of Manhattan. The spontaneous display was one of those rare events that epitomizes life in New York City—filled with surprises and excitement.
While the impressive stunts put on by White are not the kind of performances viewers can expect from just any snowy day in the park, they do serve as a precursor to what’s in store for the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics. Although White will not be competing, his involvement in the event will still be significant.
Shaun White’s Role at the 2026 Winter Olympics
Having retired from competitive snowboarding in 2022, Shaun White is not stepping away from the spotlight. Instead, he will take on an important role at the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics. White is set to join esteemed broadcasters Savannah Guthrie and Terry Gannon during the Opening Ceremony. This ceremonial event, known for its spectacle and tradition, will allow White to share his insight on the significance of the moment with viewers around the world.
“I’m so excited to be part of the Opening Ceremony for the Milan Cortina Olympics,” White expressed in a statement. His enthusiasm for returning to the Olympic stage, albeit in a different capacity, underscores his deep connection to the Games. “The Olympics have been such a huge part of my life,” he noted, highlighting the emotional weight that the event carries for him as an athlete and an ambassador.
The ceremony will not only feature athlete representation but also spectacle, including the much-anticipated Parade of Nations, during which each participating country’s delegation is introduced. White’s involvement adds a layer of credibility and excitement, as he understands firsthand what that moment means for athletes entering the stadium.
In addition to his role in the Opening Ceremony, White will serve as an analyst and commentator throughout the Olympic Games, bringing his unique perspective to viewers. His insights are sure to enhance the viewing experience, particularly for those who may be unfamiliar with the intricacies of winter sports.
Live coverage of this grand event is set to begin on Friday, February 6 at 2 p.m. ET, with primetime coverage slated for 8 p.m. ET, broadcast exclusively on NBC and available for streaming on Peacock. As preparations heat up for the Olympics, fans can look forward to what promises to be an unforgettable celebration of winter sports and athlete accomplishments.