Rule number one 'don't die'

How do you channel the passion, determination and fortitude to achieve something knowing you've lost friends doing the same thing? Professional skier Cody Townsend has lost many friends on the mountains he’s skiing down as he attempts to climb and ski all the routes detailed in the book, “The Fifty Classic Ski Descents of North America”. They're some of the most dangerous slopes on the continent and he’s documented the 46 he’s completed so far in a video series – but although the videos have stopped, that doesn’t mean the challenge attempt is finished. Townsend tells Sportshour’s Caroline Barker about the risks, the rewards and the rules he sets himself when he skis... an experience he wouldn’t trade, even for Olympic gold. Photo: Cody Townsend skiing down a mountain with rockfaces on either side. (Credit: Summit Lunch Productions)