Tony Hawk, the #1 ambassador of skateboarding, talks about his passion for the sport, landing the first 900, the success of Tony Hawk's Pro Skater video game franchise, and more. He shares his journey of recovery from a broken leg and discusses the pain tolerance and choice involved in skateboarding. The podcast also explores the evolution of skateboarding, parenting experiences, and the concept of time, commitment, and control in skateboarding tricks.
Skateboarding has evolved from a counterculture activity to an accepted art form and sport, offering self-expression and creativity within a diverse and inclusive community.
The sport has become more sophisticated and mainstream, with increased corporate involvement and resources, while still fostering personal growth and teaching valuable life lessons.
Deep dives
Skateboarding as a Counterculture Art Form
Skateboarding has transformed from a counterculture activity to a diverse art form and sport. While it was once associated with punk rock and rebels, it has now gained acceptance and is considered an art form, a lifestyle, and a sport. Skateboarding offers a sense of self-expression and creativity, allowing individuals to find their own style and voice within the community. With the rise of social media and video platforms, skaters can gain recognition and success without necessarily needing to compete in traditional events. Skateboarding continues to evolve, and its core values of self-expression and innovation are still at the heart of the community.
The Evolution of Skateboarding
Skateboarding has come a long way from its early days of roller skate boards and makeshift wood and fiberglass decks. It has now become more sophisticated with improved boards, helmets, and safety equipment. Although some nostalgically remember the days of dried-out swimming pools and the DIY skateboarding culture, the sport has evolved and become more mainstream. Corporate involvement has increased, providing more resources for skaters and expanding its reach. This evolution has led to a more diverse and inclusive community, with various styles, disciplines, and levels of commitment. Skateboarding is now recognized as a legitimate sport and art form.
The Impact of Skateboarding on Personal Growth
Skateboarding has played a significant role in personal growth and development for many individuals. It fosters creativity, resilience, and determination. Skateboarders often encounter setbacks, injuries, and challenges, but they learn to push through and overcome them. Skateboarding teaches valuable life lessons such as perseverance, goal-setting, and embracing failure as a necessary part of progress. It provides a sense of belonging and community, offering support and camaraderie among fellow skaters. By embracing skateboarding, individuals find an outlet for self-expression, personal exploration, and a means to discover their own strengths and abilities.
The Future of Skateboarding
As skateboarding continues to grow and evolve, its future holds great potential. The sport is now recognized in prestigious events like the Olympics, allowing skaters to showcase their skills and unique styles on a global stage. The increased corporate involvement brings more resources, sponsorships, and opportunities for skaters to pursue their passion professionally. Additionally, with the accessibility of social media and digital platforms, skaters can connect with a larger audience and inspire the next generation. Skateboarding will likely continue to evolve, embracing new technologies, styles, and innovative approaches while maintaining its core values of individuality, creativity, and resilience.
Tony Hawk is the #1 ambassador of skateboarding, a man who is, by definition, bigger than his sport. Now in his fifties, Tony is still pushing the boundaries of skating and continuing to invent new tricks, while his foundation, The Skatepark Project, has helped to build over 700 skateparks worldwide. Tony’s first skate deck is currently on display at the Smithsonian, and this unstoppable skater isn’t showing any signs of slowing down… even after a major leg injury. Tony talks to Craig about the pure passion of his craft, landing the first 900 while competing, the success of the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater video game franchise, and much more. Until the wheels fall off, enJOY!