Of all his titles, 'Dad' is the most important

With the Olympics looming, Japanese snowboarder Hirano faces an even greater challenge: fatherhood.

The biggest life-changer for snowboard champion Ayumu Hirano since he won an Olympic gold medal: He became a father.

That, as much as triple corks or big airs, has been his focus over the last few months. It doesn't figure to change much, even as he ramps up his run for a repeat at the Olympics next year.

"My private life, outside of snowboarding, is to enjoy spending time with my child," the Japanese rider told reporters as he prepared for the debut of The Snow League, a new pro halfpipe circuit being fronted by Shaun White. "That, and practicing."