Extra Butter: Saiko

"We've looked up to Iker as an icon of Spanish snowboarding for years, way before he ever filmed a part with BQP. It was a time when we were growing up and making a name for ourselves, and he was at his peak, filming parts with some of the biggest production companies out there. As time passed, BQP came into its own and Iker had a family, which changed his priorities. He wanted to stay closer to home and started spending more time with the Spanish scene, which led to us developing not only a good working relationship but also real friendship. It's now been two years that we've been filming with him, which led to us producing this documentary. It was an honor for us, if there is anyone in Spain who deserves a movie about his life it's Iker Fernandez."
- Matias Radaelli, Director & Producer of Saiko

We also sat down with the man himself, ladies and gentlemen, Iker Fernandez!
So Iker, how does it feel to have a movie made about you?
Personally, it feels really nice to have something like this happen. It's been many years since I've been involved in snowboarding, so the time was right to do this and lay it all out in one go. I'd like to take this opportunity to thank my sponsors and BQP for making it happen.

Iker switch back 5 in his backyard, Baqueira Beret. Photo: Andoni Epelde

How did you guys come up with the name?
Saiko, it's my nickname. My brothers and especially my friends from San Sebastian all call me that. When the idea for the documentary came up, I thought it was the best name for it.

Are you happy with how it came out?
Yeah, real happy, I think it covers all the bases. You can see some of the stuff I've done over the years and what I do now, and also where I come from and grew up riding.

What are you up to these days? Plans for the future?
Snowboarding, and taking care of my family. I don't know, I am still trying to figure out my plans for the future, but for sure it will involve snowboarding because that is what I know.

Fresh stalefish off a bridge in Niseko, Japan. Photo: Andoni Epelde

Message for the kids?
Keep riding, and don't forget about the backcountry.

Thanks to...
My family, friends, sponsors, and all the people that helped me along the way.