Skate Reanimate

What can you say about a guy like this, reasserting his status as a skate legend?

David and I woke early to skate Payson–almost too early. It was cold and my joints were stiff.

Still, we got back into the big bowl and had some good runs. Hit the 50-50s on the shallow a few times, no problem-o.

It’s the tenth anniversary of 9-11. No reason for me to say that except to point out that we do remember. Some of my friends and colleagues prefer to be cynical about patriotism and hypercritical of the effects of 9-11 on our country; I think these people are focusing on the wrong things, for the wrong reasons. We can affect change internally, and improve the ways we respond to crises and terrorism, but how about a little respect for what actually happened? How about directing your attention to where it belongs: the mind set and world view of the bad guys who carried it out–and continue to plot.

But that’s enough of that.

Anyway, I skated with Chad from OMA at my home park here in Springville. Starting to get close to fs 50-50s.

But, other than some fun runs on the mini ramp, I took a slam to a bare knee, and overworked the ankle, so I’m not inclined to get back on board any time soon. Need to force myself to rest it up.

I spent a good hour at Springville tonight, again risking the ankle. But it was a great session–well worth the risk. I felt strong, smooth, and confident. I actually felt strong on fs 50-50s, and wanted more and more speed for my roll-ins. Also worked on rock-n-rolls, 180 disasters, and 50-50 spine transfers.

Some amazing mini-ramp skating. Creative, amazing tricks, and a great vibe.

Some great skate park skating. Big airs, cool rail tricks, and style overflowing. Thanks, Emerica. Oh, and thanks, Thrasher, too.

Just south of San Francisco is the lovely coastal town of Pacifica, where I’m staying for a few days, sandwiching some free time between the NETnet conference, and Usability Week. Pacifica is home to a great skate park, a nice blend of banks and street ledges, a perfectly transitioned set of round walls, and a long, wide, pipe-like bowl.

I’ve been skating this park in the mornings, for two hour sessions, and have been surprised at how friendly (and gnarly) the locals are. Especially cool has been Yong-Ki, a guy who’s flow and speed in the bowls telepath style from across the park. He rides like spring mountain run off, flowing easily over and around corners and angles.

Yong-Ki, I found out, is one of the guys behind Solitary Arts, a skate/design company that produces some awesome goods. I’m going to have to bite for some of the White Yolks wheels (54mm 100a) that I saw several of the bowl riders, including Yong-Ki, sporting.

If this doesn’t make you want to skate more bowls, nothing will: