Since Being Introduced

SINCE BEING INTRODUCED as an Olympic sport in 1998, snowboarding has become one of the most thrilling events in the Winter Games. In the 2002 Salt Lake City Games, United States fans had plenty of reasons to cheer.

In the halfpipe, snowboarders cruise back and forth across the snow, soaring high into the air as they pull various grabs, spins, and airs. The course typically runs 110 meters with sides three to four meters high and banked at 85 degrees. Judges award points based on standard technique, rotation, height, landing, and technical value with 50 as the maximum score.

A rule change from 1998 allowed greater creative expression. Rather than a combined score of the two runs, only the better of the two efforts counted.

Four Americans, led by 1998 bronze medalist Ross Powers, made the 12-man final competition. Powers, who finished ninth in qualifying, nailed his first run with a series of twists and flips for a 46.1 score. Danny Kass, a 19-year-old New Jersey native, followed with a 42.5.

But after both runs were complete, Powers’s score remained on top for the gold. Kass claimed the silver. Another American, Jarret “J. J.” Thomas improved to 42.1 on his second attempt and took the bronze.

The 1-2-3 American finish marked the first time any country had captured all three medals in a Winter Games event since the United States accomplished the feat in men’s figure skating in 1956.

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POINT Together Ross Powers, Danny Kass, and J. J. Thomas exalted their country. What a glorious sight for Americans to see not one, not two, but three flags bearing the Stars and Stripes raised during the medal ceremony. Tears welled in the winners’ eyes as the “Star-Spangled Banner” played.

But as great as it is for an athlete to bring glory to his or her country, it’s far greater to glorify God. The psalmist reminds us to exalt God’s name together with other believers. Individual worship brings joy to the Father and to the worshipper. Singing praises and lifting up God’s name with two, three, or more people helps us feel closer to God and to fellow believers.

GOAL! Each day, plan an individual worship time with the Lord. Every week, share worship with a church or Christian group. It’s important to praise God and exalt his name, both individually and together.