Photo Klaudie Moravcova

We have heard about Emily for years now. We missed meeting her when we went to the Maryhill SheRide a few years back and since then she has been competing with the men in downhill... and winning. This young woman doesn't let anything get in the way of her goals, and when she hears "you can't" or "It's never going to happen" that fuels her even more. She skates downhill faster than most people drive their car on the freeway, is an IDF champion, skates for Team USA and still manages to attend college to get her degree. Whew!

We are extremely pleased to share this " Who's Rad" interview featuring Emily Pross with you!

Photo Gael Abudarham

 Who's Rad?  

Emily Pross 

Age?

23 years old

Home is? 

I was born and raised in Vernon, New Jersey. But I have lived in Mineral, Virginia for the last two years.

How long have you been downhill racing? 

I have been downhill racing for the last 7 years. I originally started downhill skating in 2012, but I was mostly into the freestyle aspect of it at first. By freestyle, I mean technical slides and flowing down the hill with style and grace. It was not until 2013 when I realized my love for downhill racing on a skateboard. Now I just want to go as fast as I can downhills. 

Photo CGSA Downhill

What made you get interested in doing downhill?

Well, growing up, I could never really figure how to ollie or do any of the fancy flatland street skating tricks on a regular skateboard. So instead I took my skateboard to the top of this hill I lived on and rode down that, and honestly, I could do that all day. I loved that gravity powered speed feeling.

You are going to school and racing – how do you juggle both?

I do and it is pretty rough. Fortunately, I took online classes through Berkeley College. Generally my plan of attack with school, and traveling to races, was trying to get all the work done ahead of time that I was assigned in the weeks I would be gone. Generally, the season would start in Australia, and I would be gone for about 3 weeks and go to two races. So I would talk to the professors and they would give the work for those 3 weeks I would be gone, because I knew once I got to my destination I would not feel like doing any kind of schoolwork. So I would knock out 3 weeks' worth of school work in 4 classes ahead of time. I would start this grind about a month before I would leave. It was very draining, mentally, having to all that extra work on top of the work that was due that week in all those classes.

What are you getting your degree in?

I am currently pursuing my Bachelor’s of Science in Marketing and Communications. I’m actually in my last semester finishing that up.

Can you tell us what an average day is like for you? 

Since I am currently working on an internship with Twente Additive Manufacturing. My day starts out, getting up early around 5am or 6am. Try to complete some school work, before heading out the door to work at the internship at 8:30am. Then at the end of the day, I train at the gym generally around 5pm, for about 1 hr 1/2 - 3hrs, how long I train depends on how I feel. And then I return home, eat dinner, study some more, then go to bed, and repeat. Depending on my schedule, sometimes I’ll try and do some training in the morning before heading to work or doing anything else I have planned that day.

Speaking of training – can you tell us what type of training you do to prepare and keep your body in shape for your sport?

Generally, during the racing season, I participate in HIIT (high-intensity interval training) and keep a good mix of endurance, strength, and balance training in with my HIIT routine. To give you an idea, my favorite routine, is warming with low weight on weight lifting exercise, like say squats. Then without rest in between weight sets, I will sprint on the treadmill, or outside (depending on the weather) for 1:20 at a 10mph pace. I will repeat this 4 times, without resting in-between weight sets, while also adding weight to my strength training exercise. I’ll also do this with other weight training exercises in one training session. Aside from this, I also like to go for long-distance runs on occasion. As well as go to the bouldering gym. 

 We know you like to go FAST – what is the fastest speed you have clocked on your skateboard?

Photo Tyler Topping

"The fastest speed I clocked on a skateboard is 135.00kph. Which is 83.88 mph. This was at the top speed challenge up in Quebec Canada, I achieved the fastest for the ladies in that contest up there"

How did you get the nickname “The PROSSecutor”?

The nickname was actually given to me by one of friends in the downhill industry, Max Dubler. He gave me the nickname back in 2015 at an international Downhill Federation (IDF) race in Lillehammer, Norway. 2015 was when I started to realize my potential to do well in the open category. Because I had a decent qualifying time and made the final 64 man bracket in Open/Pro Men’s category, people were saying those that qualified worse than I got “Prossed.” That was when Dubler took it upon himself to say, “No, you all got PROSSecuted.” The name and term stuck ever since then.

Can you tell us about the different divisions in downhill, women, open, etc?

Of course. So much like other sports where they have a governing organization like NFL, NHL, and MLB. The IDF is the league and sanctioning body we race in as downhill skateboarders. In this league, we race under they're set of rules, and racing divisions/classes. These multiple different classes under their umbrella, have a points chase across multiple different races around the world, in order to crown a World Champion. The classes the IDF offers races in are, a Master’s Division, which is for people 35 years and up. A Women’s division, which all women of any age can compete in. A junior division that anyone under the age of 18 can compete in. A street luge division which, people who participate in, street luging, race against each other in. Lastly, they offer an Open category, which is the main racing division the IDF offers. In the Open category, anybody is allowed to participate, including those participating in the other divisions, excluding luge. The open category is very much similar to a “Pro Men’s” division, however, women are allowed to compete, which is called “Open.” 

Photo Tyler Topping

You are winning all the women’s comps and are also beating the men – can you tell us a little about what racing with the men is like, where it took place, and how it felt? 

Of course. I know it sounds weird, but I now have 2 “first” wins under my belt against the men. One was at a non-IDF sanctioned event in North Carolina, called Mt. Jefferson. This win happened in 2017. And my other was my first win in an IDF event, at the Seaside track in the Philippines. This happened in 2018.

The Mt. Jefferson race track is one of my favorite race tracks in the world, the track pretty much has all the features I like in a race track. Back in 2017 when I won, I won in the rain. Skateboarding in the rain is a whole different ball game. There is no traction, so you have to calculate and think about your technique and lines while navigating the road. I also remember it being particularly cold here, I remember being lined up on the starting for the final heat, and not being able to stop shivering. I honestly credit the cold to me winning, because, literally every heat I wanted to get to the bottom as fast I could so I could get out of the rain and try to warm myself up.

At the Mt. Jefferson race because it was not IDF, they only offered one class, open. However in the Philippines, I raced both Women’s and Open. This race was also extremely brutal because of the extreme heat and humidity. From the Quarterfinals till the end I was racing 2 race heats per round, and in the heat and humidity, it was extremely difficult. But this win was particularly special to me, because not only did I win against the men while racing an additional race heat per round. But I won against two former Open world Champions, who had the reputation of being hard to beat, so that special.

I like to think, unrealistic goals, lead to unrealistic outcomes. I relate this to my goal of winning an open race because I was always told, “you can’t” “It’s never going to happen.” When something you worked so hard to achieve finally happens, you are left with this feeling of, what now? What do I do? 

Photo  Ras Sarunas

 You are setting records like this and paving the way for women in the sport – are there more goals like this coming up for you?

"For sure! My main goal in downhill is to inspire others, whether I have accomplished that or not, I do not know. But, my main goal for next is to be better than I was last year, as a competitor. Both mentally and physically"

Do the guys treat you differently now that you are competing with them and beating them?

Yes and no. Some guys, I can tell I have earned their respect as a competitor. However, I can still sense some resentment in the attitudes of some others.

You are also an IDF champion – how many times and which years?

Yes, I am a 5x IDF World Champion, 4x being undefeated. And with the win at the World Roller Games in Barcelona, I now have 6 World Titles.

You were named recently to the USA National Team – what does that mean to you?

As a whole, it felt really cool because this was the first time Downhill Skateboarding has ever been apart of something at this magnitude. All in all, it was a huge step forward for the sport, and I felt proud to be apart of the downhill community.

Can you explain what it was like to go to Barcelona and compete?

The event in Barcelona was beautifully run. It was really spectacular to see all the best skaters in the world come together at a single event. Normally at most events, everyone can’t make it, so it was cool to really see the whole downhill scene come together.

You brought home the gold for the USA there – what does your medal look like?

The medal is pretty cool. The medal actually looks like a wheel. It has a gold rim with a concrete center. In the concrete, the WRG games logo is stamped along with downhill’s event symbol. On the inside of the medal is a gold skateboard bearing with “World Roller Games” engraved into. The bearing spins too, which is pretty neat. 

Photo Via Kebbek Skateboards

You have your own pro model board with Kebbek – sweet! Tell us about the graphics, the design, how that came about? 

The graphic is pretty cool, it was made by an artist out in Nelson, BC. The focal point of the graphic is a Bald Eagle, which I thought was pretty sweet considering I’m one of their few riders from the United States. This design came about from testing and riding multiple different boards in the market. I gleaned a little bit from each of the boards I liked, and have ridden in the past, and mashed all these components together to make my pro-model. 

Any advice for girls who want to follow in your footsteps?

Rusty Williams

"If you believe in yourself, you can accomplish anything. At times you are going to feel alone, but remember to keep your eyes on the prize and stay focused on the end goal."

"Do not let others tell you that you can’t, because they are only saying that to scare you from what you CAN do."

Girls in action sports that inspire you?

I love following Crossfit and the athletes who compete in the games. Women, such as Tia-Clair Toomey, Katrin Daviosdottir, and Jessica Griffith. These women, are major inspirations for me in keeping me motivated in my passion for training and working out. 

I’m also a huge fan of American Ninja Warrior, and I have massive respect for Jessie Graff. She helps keep me inspired to compete against all humans, rather than just the women. 

Sponsor Shout Out:

Kebbek Skateboards

Hondar 

Three Things You Don't Know About Me...

1. I’m a huge fan of kombucha, and do my own home brewing. In the future, I would like to possibly start a kombucha beverage company.

2. I have a fear of falling from high places, and I credit this fear to my sister. On family vacation whenever I would look out of the edge of a cliff, or something similar, my sister would also come from behind and give me a little nudge/jerk forward. This would cause me to lose my balance and think I was about to free-fall off the edge. Because of this, to this day, I hate being close to the edges of cliffs even if there is a safety railing across it.

3. I’m currently learning another language, Portuguese.

What’s Next? 

Honestly, I am not sure. I would like to keep pursuing the IDF world tour. But, since the sport is so small it is very hard, for me financially, to fund all that traveling year after year. One thing Would like to do is pursue coaching. I think I could bring a lot of stuff to the table to help someone succeed in this sport and others. For now though, I kind of just going to go with the flow, see what doors open, and close, and go from there.

Make sure you follow Emily at:

Instagram

@emilylongboards

Facebook 

facebook.com/emilypross

Sky captured in Los Angeles by Jenny Sampson

We ran into photographer Jenny Sampson at the Exposure Skate contest last year, and we were intrigued by her old school photography techniques - and that she was shooting portraits of a lot of the female skaters, as opposed to action shots.  She has one book on skateboarding out and another one (that you don't want to miss!) launching soon.

Read on for a very inspiring interview with this rad woman!


Name?     Jenny Sampson

Age?   49     (I’ll be 50 on October 22!!)

Where do you live/work?

I live in Berkeley, California and was born and raised in San Francisco. In all capacities of my work, I am everywhere. My photography –sometimes I am shooting at home and I process all my film at home (black and white film) and sometimes I shoot in the field, which is where I met you, or at a client’s home. I make silver gelatin prints in the city in my darkroom (my dad built it and printed in there before I was born). I am also a catering chef, so of course I am all over the Bay Area with that.

Jenny working her magic - photo via Jenny's instagram

How did you get started in photography?

Well, I first learned to process and print in the 6th grade. I had begun taking photos before then with my Kodak Instamatic that my parents bought for me. My father always had a camera in his hands to photograph us, usually on vacations since he was always working when we were home. I knew I wanted to do what my dad did –or at least what I saw him do, which was use a cool camera and take pictures.

What type of photography do you do when you are not shooting portraits of skateboarders?

I love photographing people, but I am not always around them. With my wet plate process (the process I use to make tintypes of skaters), I make still lives which I do at home. When I am out and about, I’ll often carry around another camera (2¼ or 35 mm or polaroid). I tend to photograph kind of odd or quirky mundane scenes on the fly. And since I am often around food as a chef, I take snap shots of food –but not like those foodie pics. I’m usually focusing more on the geometric, patterned stuff.

Jazzmen & Nathalie ~ Seattle

What got you interested in skaters and made you want to take photos of them?

Ok, this is kind of a long story.

The seed was planted in 1995 when I lived in Seattle. I used to ride my bike to work past a skatepark on 5th Avenue across from the Memorial Stadium in the Seattle Center. There were always tons of guys there skating –at that time, my photography was very much about quirky, truncated portraiture, gesture and posture. I thought the skatepark would be a great place to shoot because I figured people would ignore me (which I prefer when I shoot –except for tintype, of course) and there was a perfect concentration of people. They were focused on and interacting with each other and doing their thing –I could be ignored and shoot this organic scene. But I was completely intimidated and didn’t know how to approach them. I beat myself up every time I biked by them knowing I was missing out on this thing that I knew could be so good.

Years later, I had moved back to the Bay Area. I learned how to make tintypes and recognized that I needed a portable darkroom because, as a roaming photographer at heart, I saw potential tintypes everywhere (I had been making tintypes at home using my basement as a darkroom or at Rayko –the photo center in SF where I learned how to make tintypes). I built a portable darkroom and went to the Berkeley skatepark –I had just discovered it weeks before and unconsciously decided that was where I needed to go in order to test out my portable set up.

I distracted myself from the insecurity and feelings of intimidation with this portable photographic process. I made about eight portraits that day in January 2010 and I immediately knew I was on to something. (Some of my favorite skater portraits to this day I made at that very first skatepark tintype shoot.)

The more time I spent at skate parks observing and interacting with the folks there, the more I saw this rich culture that I had been previously unaware of, so I kept on going. It was so much fun, even though it was still intimidating –I was really putting myself in situations that weren’t naturally comfortable for me, but I saw it as a personal challenge to get over it. I’ve learned a lot about myself and strangers that I never could have foreseen at the beginning of this project-series. It has been life-changing for me.

Ivonne ~ Encinitas

Why did you decide to focus on the old art of tintype?

I fell in love with it immediately. I had known about tintypes –and daguerreotypes because I had seen them in museums, but that was kind of it. I didn’t know the history or anything about them. I saw a contemporary tintype that Michael Schindler made at Rayko Photo Center in 2007 or early 2008. It was beautiful! I signed up for a workshop pretty much immediately and once I saw the actual process, I was hooked. I loved the making of the chemistry (as opposed to the black and white darkroom where you simply dilute the pre-mixed chemistry with water, with wet plate, you use recipes from the 19th century, raw chemistry, beakers, scales, pipettes –the works.); I loved the magical aspect of the plates clearing in the fix. And surprisingly enough for me, I didn’t mind (and have come to love) the slower process of making the actual exposure. I had always shot on the fly, no tripod, no extra gear, super easy. I never thought I could deal with a large camera that required a tripod. It seemed too slow for me. Now what I do requires a car full of equipment. Making a tintype is another world. Your brain is in a different gear to make pictures and the finished plate is hauntingly beautiful so whatever my hang-up was before, it was erased with the tintype.

Can you explain to our readers what tintype photography is?

So a tintype is the actual photograph made using the wet plate collodion photographic process that was invented in 1851. Though it wasn’t the first photographic process, it was instrumental in bringing photography to many more people (than the previous processes) because it was the first portable photographic process and more affordable –it also was less toxic. It is called a tintype because in those days, tin was considered to be a cheap metal, and the process was cheaper than the others, hence “tintype” even though they were never actually on a sheet of tin (I use aluminum sheets). The reason why it is called “wet plate collodion” is that the metal plate on which the image sits must remain wet with chemistry throughout the entire process of making the tintype. Basically you are making film by doing this –although the film base is a piece of metal instead of a flexible, transparent substrate. Exposures for tintypes are very long in comparison to modern photography; my subjects must remain perfectly still for about 30 seconds although the actual exposure is generally about four seconds. That 30 seconds has to do with using a view camera and the fact that focusing cannot be done while the plate holder is in the camera.

Without going into too much detail, the process is as follows: pouring a viscous liquid, salted collodion, onto a metal plate (if a piece of glass is used instead of the metal plate, the end result is called an ambrotype) and then submerging that plate into a bath of silver nitrate where it becomes light sensitive. The collodion layer acts somewhat like as a glue for the silver nitrate to adhere to the plate.

After the plate is sensitized in the silver, while it is still wet, it is placed in a plate holder which is then slid into the view camera and an exposure is made. The plate is processed by pouring developer onto the plate, water poured to stop development (these steps are done in a darkroom), and then fixed (outside of the darkroom). That last step, in the fixer, is the magical part that I love sharing with my subjects. This is when you can see the image appear while the unexposed silver floats off the surface of the plate.

Lacey Baker ~ Seattle

What was it like getting skaters (who are all about movement) to sit still for the length of time it takes to do a tintype?

That’s a great question. Way easier than you might think! I can confidently say that, with extremely few exceptions, every skater I’ve photographed was totally into it and remained surprisingly still. My opinion: because they have to have such good balance to execute their tricks, they are able to remain super still. Sounds odd but it makes sense to me.

Do you like to talk and get to know your subject a little prior to taking their photo or is it better not to?

I definitely like to talk and get to know my subjects. I don’t feel like I need to get their story beforehand. Because it is a long process, and usually they are at the skate park to skate, I try to make it move along as fast as possible, at least in the beginning. Once we’ve begun the setup, then there is more time to talk.

What ways do you try & make skaters comfortable in front of the camera when they are not used to sitting still for a portrait?

There is a lot going on in my head when I'm doing a tintype shoot. I need to make sure the light is right, the temperature is right (if it is too hot there can be problems), the plate is poured properly and within the right time frame. Sometimes I am moving around not talking in order to take care of that stuff and so I shift from serious, silent technician to chatty, friendly photographer. I tell my subjects a little bit about what I am doing –sometimes they ask more questions, sometimes not; I want them to be as comfortable as possible because that will help getting a beautiful and honest portrait, but also it helps them remain still for the exposure. I give them pretty specific instructions about certain details (e.g. “you can blink!) that won’t affect their stance. I see making a portrait like this as a collaboration between them and me, so I’m genuinely interested in them which I hope helps them relax. Sometimes they have ideas of how they position themselves and sometimes they want me to direct them. Some people are more outgoing or shy than others. Sometimes we end up telling each other silly stories and laughing, and other times it’s more subdued, but I am a bit of a goofball at heart so even if it gets serious for a moment, I return to the goof pretty quickly.

Hannah ~ Seattle

Have you had to explain that with tintype motion isn’t possible in the normal sense?

Yeah, practically every single time! I have a few funny stories about motion and tintypes and tell them when the subject comes up. The stories can be a good way to loosen people up, which is super important.


What gave you the idea of doing a book of male & female skater portraits?

I actually never thought of a male book or female book. My first book isn’t a male book –there are girls in there, too! It’s just that for that body of work, I went to random skateparks and would photograph anyone whose attention I could get and then whoever would say “yes.” As we all know, there are usually more guys at skateparks. When I did see a girl, I would try to approach her, but, honestly, it wasn’t easy. That was (and sometimes still is) the most challenging part of this work –getting people’s attention. I eventually gained much more confidence to walk up to people, even though it was (and is still) difficult for me.

When I was shooting toward the end of my book deadline in 2017, I came upon a gaggle of girls at the Emeryville skate park. I photographed them and they were awesome. It made me so happy to see a group of girls at a skate park because I hadn’t seen it before. They told me about a Skate Like a Girl event that was happening in Santa Rosa and so I went to that. I was unaware of SLAG and I had never gone to a skateboard event to shoot before. That was that.

I didn’t even know too much about the pros (girls or guys) but I knew a little bit. It turned out that the event was a competition as well as a viewing of Quit Your Day Job, a film by Monique O’Toole and Erik Sandoval. I saw Vanessa Torres and Mariah Duran there and I am sure there were others, but I was super green couldn’t ID anyone. I know I made some super lame comments not knowing to whom I was talking, but oh well, what are you gonna do? (I got myself educated, is what I did!) It was at that event, I think, that I knew that my next series would be just girl skaters. Since then, I’ve learned even more about skateboard culture. I knew nothing of the girl skaters for one major reason. They weren’t given the attention or exposure that was given to the guys.

Jenny's first book ~ SKATERS

We know you have a second book coming out next year – can you tell us a little about that and when it will be released?

Yes, I am so excited! Skater Girls is dropping in the Fall of 2020, possibly earlier. My publisher, Daylight Books, publishes art and photography books. They did a beautiful job on my first monograph, Skaters and were interested in doing a follow-up so here we are. It is great timing, too, because the Olympics is going to bring a lot of attention to skateboarding (actually, I suppose for some people maybe this isn’t good?). Plus girl skaters are getting so much more well-deserved attention and exposure. It is an exciting time we’re in.

I should add that I am still shooting for this body of work and for the book. I am traveling up and down the west coast and will likely put calls out when I am planning to be at certain skateparks. For the girls, I’ve mainly been going to specific events because I know there will be tons of girl skaters to shoot --otherwise, it’s chancy that there will be many girls at any random skatepark. So follow me on Instagram to see when I’m setting up!

Will it be the same size and format as SKATERS?

Yeah, that’s the plan.

Will there be a gallery show?

I hope so! I am currently working on exhibitions around the time of and following the publishing of Skater Girls. I have been showing my skaters and girl skaters for many years in various capacities around the country. A few of them are going to be in a show at Sparks Gallery in San Diego –I think that exhibition is from October 19 – November 19.

What has the response been like from the skate community when the first book came out?

Totally positive. They are such a supportive group. I love the skate community. This is not your average way to photograph skaters, so everyone’s been down with it. Tintypes are pretty cool.

Laura ~ Encinitas

We met you at Exposure Skate Contest in 2018 and you were taking tintypes of various female skaters – can you explain the cost of shooting this way vs. a digital or even a “film” camera – so people understand what goes into making a single portrait?

In some ways it is difficult to put a price on it, suffice it to say they are expensive to make. I buy all the raw ingredients to make the chemistry. I buy sheets of aluminum and cut them to size with a metal shearer. Each individual plate takes anywhere from 10-20 minutes to make depending on circumstances. That one plate is the only copy, so I have to get the exposure right; I must develop it correctly; I must wash and handle that plate without scratching it; I need to dry and pack it up without damaging the surface; I copy-shoot and/or scan it, also without damaging the surface; and last I have to varnish it without catching it on fire or getting too much dust and crap on the surface. And also, by the way, my subjects have to remain still for the shot, which can sometimes be challenging. If any of those things doesn’t go right, it’s a loss. A loss of my subjects time (which is valuable because often they are competing or skating and this is their one chance for the shot), a loss of my time (often I have driven hours from home for the shoot) and a loss of of money from my pocket. And there is literally only one exposure, that’s it. But all of this is part of the deal. You win some you lose some. It is an investment on many levels and I love it.

Here is a list of the preparations for me to shoot at a skate park or event:

• Cut and pack aluminum plates (must cut far more that you might need) and protective sleeves.
• Prepare all chemistry: sometimes up to several liters of developer, clean silver nitrate bath, pack extra silver nitrate, mix fixer.
• Pack tent frame/tent; tables, towels, photographic trays, fan, headlamp, batteries.
• Pack camera/s, tripod, loupe, stool, darkcloth, reflectors.
• Pack photographic trays for washing; pack drying rack and up to 18 gallons water.
• Print/pack contact/model release forms; business/postcards.
• Pack anything else I might possibly need.

So there is a lot going on to make just one tintype at a skate park or event. My record number of plates is 30 in 6 hours, which is TOTALLY insane –and not all of them are successful plates. This was at an event where I had a photography assistant who was capable of handling all interactions, maintaining model releases and waiting lists as well as the washing of all plates, drying and sleeving them –oh yes and also acts as my handler -- “Jenny, drink water! Your next person is Sophia.” (This may not sound like a lot, but I guarantee you, it is a lot of work for 30 tintypes of which perhaps fewer than 10 are up to snuff.) I should add that this is six hours of shooting plus an additional four hours of pre and post-shoot work.

What are some of your favorite places (skateparks, street, backyard pools) to shoot the tintypes portrait?

I actually like all sorts of places –I like fences and trees and cars. The depth of field is shallow so most of these details are out of focus, but they look good that way. Fences are a great way to stabilize my subjects plus I think they look cool. I love the geometry and patterns they offer.

Ziggy ~ Bakersfield

Do you have an all time favorite image that you have taken?

I suppose if I had to pick one, it would have to Ziggy, Bakersfield, 2010. But there are several –and they can change, too. But Ziggy is pretty much way up there.


Do you skate yourself?

Nope. I learned to skate at summer camp when I was about 10. There were three of us girls who picked the skateboarding activity all week long; by the end of the week, I could skate up the ramp, do a kick turn and come back down. (The three of us placed during the competition --1st, 2nd and 3rd!) But, sadly, not anymore.


Any female photographers in the world that you look up to?

Well, I admire all of them, really. Especially the ones who are shooting video –I still can’t imagine riding and shooting at the same time. It is all such a commitment and it’s been such a male dominated world for so long. Norma Ibarra, Zorah Olivia, Norma Ibarra, Monique O’Toole, Kristin Ebeling, Desiree Astorga, Olga Aquilar just to name a few.

Any advice for someone who wants to get into photography?

Just shoot. Get your hands on any camera you can –it doesn’t have to be a good or expensive camera –your phone is fine, too. If you are truly into it, I recommend using an actual camera because there is a physicality to it that can be important and getting a phone out of your hands is a good thing. But it is important to remember that it isn’t about the equipment, it’s about your eye and exercising that muscle. Go for a walk that is purely for making pictures. Walk around the block. Wander around your home. It doesn’t matter. Eventually take classes or a workshop with a photographer whom you admire, if you can afford to. Shoot, shoot, shoot.

Amelia ~ Seattle

What about advice for girls who want to skate?

First thing --if you can afford to get a board, buy one and stand on it on a rug. Haha, that is my non-skater advice because that’s what I did a few years ago to try to get (back) on a board. But really, I think that if you are shy, or scared or insecure about it, look for a girl skate organization near you –there are more and more every day and they can provide a safe, supportive environment for you to learn and they also probably have a skateboard you can use if you don’t have one. If you aren’t shy, or scared or insecure, do the same thing. Or get your hands on a board and stand on it on the sidewalk outside your house. Just get on it. Make sure you are protected (helmet, pads) and learn how to fall so that you minimize injury. Know that you are going to fall, so be prepared and educate yourself about how to make it less scary and painful. I think this goes for anyone who wants to skate, yes? I kind of feel silly giving this sort of advice as a non-skater, but that’s my advice nonetheless.

Where can we see your work? 

www.jennysampson.com
IG @jennysampsonphotography

I’ve had work in Analog Forever Magazine, The Hand, SPOT
My work will be in a show in San Diego at Sparks Gallery from 10/18-11/19

Photo Jay Gadong

Photo Jay Gadong

Photo Jay Gadong

This 18 year old shredder just won the Vans Philippines Skate Championships and word is that she will hopefully be coming to the USA soon to visit and skate. Margielyn has been flying a bit under the radar but that is fast becoming a thing of the past - with her recent win more and more people in the skateboarding world are taking notice. Her sponsorship's are solid and she is even slated to be featured in the June issue of BLUNT magazine.  This girl is one to watch! If you don't believe us, just take a look at what she lists as her "favorite" tricks.  See you soon Margielyn!



Who's Rad?         Margielyn A.Didal

Age?       18

Home is?     Cebu City , Philippines

Home Park or Skate spot is?          Streets in Cebu

How Long Have You Been Skateboarding?          almost 6 yrs

Tell us about your board set up:     852 Board,   Ace Trucks , Wheels -  etheir Ricta or Spitfire

Favorite music to skate to?              "Broccoli" by big baby D.R.A.M

Girls Who Skate that inspire you?     Leticia Bufoni

Photo via Anthony Claravall

Favorite place you've ever skated?         The streets in Hong Kong and TKO skatepark in HK

Favorite Trick?            BS 50-50 to 360 flip,  and and back foot late late heel flip out

Sponsors?             NB Numeric Asia Pacific , 852 Skateboards , Ace Trucks , Ares Skate Supply

What is coming up next?       Volcom Clothing Asia soon

Make sure you follow Margielyn on her instagram



Girl is NOT a 4 Letter Word would like to give a huge thank you to  Warren Stuart, Heidi Lemmon and Jay Gadong for their help with this article.

Jordan Beal is the girl who is always making sure she promotes other skater girls on her instagram, she's the one at the skatepark smiling and having fun, and working hard at making skateboarding inclusive to all. She is definitely a 100% skateboarder just like the rest of us, but she is also doing things that help keep the girls skateboarding community moving forward and being shown in a positive light. From her blog, Skating Fashionista, that covers events, fashion, interviews, and skateboarding, to her volunteer work with numerous events, Jordan is a force behind bringing in brands that might not otherwise have been interested in using skater girls to promote their products. Read on to see how Jordan, at only 15 years old, manages to do all this plus attend high school. Pretty impressive.



Who's Rad?      Jordan (JoJo) Beal

Age?      15

Home is?         Cardiff 92007

Home Park or Skate spot is?       Carmel Valley Skate Park

How Long Have You Been Skateboarding?       4 years

What do you enjoy most about skateboarding?

 You can be as creative as you want plus it’s the best way to get to the beach quick.

Tell us about your board set up – what brand of deck, wheels, trucks? 

Arbor deck, Spitfire Wheels, ALWAYS clear grip with stickers underneath and Independent Trucks.

Favorite music to skate to? 

 I don’t like listening to music when I skate it makes me nervous.

Friends - Minna Stess, Arianna Carmona & Jordan Santana

 




Girls who skate that inspire you?

Minna Stess and Arianna Carmona because they kill it & if they keep teaching me I will land something amazing soon ;)


Favorite place you've ever skated? 

Carmel Valley Skate Park & Clairemont Skate Park because nothing is better than skating with friends.

Jordan and the skatercross crew

Who are your favorite people to skate with? 

 I like to skate with people who are skating for fun not just talking about it being fun.

Which female skaters inspire you? 

I’m inspired by Micaela Ramirez, the founder of Poseiden Foundation. I’m getting ready to go blog at the 8th annual Ladies Day at the Berrics. Girls who open doors and then leave them open for other girls are stylish and inspirational.

Way back when, Micaela opened a door for me by introducing me to Don Brown. He’s my spirit animal.

My interview with Micaela http://skatingfashionista.com/2016/10/poseiden-foundation-getting-ready-for-8th-ladies-day-at-the-berrics/

Sponsors?

As a blogger I have many supporters. My blog is about keeping it stylish on & off the board. I believe more girls skateboard when they see stylish girls skateboarding and get encouragement. I appreciate all the organization that have and continue to help me encourage girls around the world to skateboard for fun.     Here’s the link to the blog http://skatingfashionista.com/

I absolutely love people & organizations that share the link or re-post my posts.

Three things you don't know about me:

1. I’m dyslexic.
2. I find Facebook complicated. Why can’t everything be easy like Instagram?
3. I’ve been “moving” to Canada since pre-school.

Tell us about some events or contests you have been involved in?

I enjoyed volunteering for Clash at Clairemont X. I’m still working on finishing up a short video on why it’s such a special event and how the park positively impacts the community.

Much love to Morgnar who trusted me with the Active Ride SnapChat to cover SkaterCross on press day (a pre-event to Clash X). Also thank you to the Element/Etnies crew who challenged me to add videos to a post. I can write all day – videos that’s scary stuff, but with encouragement all things are doable.

http://skatingfashionista.com/documentary/
http://skatingfashionista.com/2016/06/clash-at-clairemont-10-the-skatingfashionista-recap/
http://skatingfashionista.com/2016/04/earth-day-2016-with-etnies-element-active-ride/

Jodan at the Ivivva event

Tell us how you came up with the idea to create a fashion x skateboarding blog?

I wanted to tell the world there’s no uniform in skateboarding. Plus I wanted to say what makes skateboarding fun is not how good you are at it. You can be the best at something and miserable, so why can’t you be OK or even bad at something and happy.

To me skateboarding and fashion are both creative outlets. I will definitely share my opinions – olive green pants are a must this year – but I’m about accepting whatever someone wants to wear. There’s no wrong way to dress or skate.

http://skatingfashionista.com/2016/09/red-bull-curb-kings-september-10th/


You cover brands, events, photographers, skaters – what is your favorite part of doing the blog?

My favorite part of the blog is I meet all kinds of people and get to share their stories. My hope is the stories I share break myths that exist about skateboarding, fashion, and what girls can do.

You like to make sure skateboarding is inclusive and that anyone can try it and get involved – what has the response been like?

Most people are very supportive, however, there are some haters. I blog about the supporters.


You have been involved with Exposure for many years – what is your role in that event?

I love to help at Learn to Skate. I go where Neal Mims tells me, he’s been doing this long enough he knows how to match people up. Plus working any event with Neal is fun. He loves skateboarding and his positivity is contagious.

Prior to the event I help promote it. I have an events page on the blog http://skatingfashionista.com/upcoming-fun-events-for-skating-fashionistas/ so it’s up there and I write posts on girls who share they are coming and on what’s new like this year the fundraising pages & the Yoga Challenge.

Post event, I write a recap of the event through my eyes and those who shared with me. http://skatingfashionista.com/2016/11/exposure-skate-5th-year-11516/ One of the benefits of blogging is you can update any time so if someone’s reading this & has more memories to share just let me know.

What do you like most about being involved in Exposure?

What I like best about EXPOSURE is it’s a charity event. I don’t think anyone wants to talk about domestic violence, however, it’s a real problem and Carol’s house offers women and their families a way out of the abuse. The proceeds from EXPOSURE go to Carol’s House. I was honored to help present the check at this year’s event.

Both founders Amelia Brodka and Lesli Cohen support all girls that skate or want to learn to skate. It’s amazing that it’s free to attend & participate.



Can you share with us what Exposure Skate is/does?

EXPOSURE Skate empowers women through skateboarding. They provide a stage at their yearly event so the world can see #girlscanskate, girls have a chance to learn to skate, donate proceeds to survivors of domestic violence and now have a monthly event called Skate Rising.

What I find amazing is that Amelia made a documentary, Underexposed and didn’t stop there. Many people will tell you about a problem and hope you fix it or it goes away. Amelia & Lesli created EXPOSURE to address the problem.

Jordan teaching at Skate Rising

Can you tell us about the new event you are involved with – Skate Rising?

Skate Rising is part of EXPOSURE Skate. It’s lead by Calli Kelsay. It happens on the 2nd Saturday of every month at the Encinitas Community Park at 9am. It’s targeted to young girls 5-18 and teaches them about a need in the community, how they can help through a service project, and then we skate.

As a blogger, I have overcome my fear of asking for anything, so I invite people & companies to participate. I want to stress that it’s not just girls that can be inspirational in teaching girls to be of service and help them skate. Jimmy Cao, Bryan from SkateXS with his entire team, & Academy Skate Park were on board from the start and help the event happen. I’m looking forward to when GN4LW comes.

The program started in August and so far I’ve been able to write a recap post for each session. This is the link to the first one & you can search the blog for Skate Rising to find the others http://skatingfashionista.com/2016/08/skate-rising-81316/

What’s Next?

I started a series of posts on my homecoming dress. I’ll be skating at several parks and then finding it a new home for prom. The first post is up and an upcoming post on Project Princess, who collects dresses for those who otherwise wouldn’t have a prom dress will be up soon.

http://skatingfashionista.com/?s=homecoming

Make sure you follow Jordan at:

http://skatingfashionista.com/
https://www.instagram.com/skatingfashionista/
https://www.facebook.com/Skatingfashionista/

email skatingfashionista@yahoo.com  -  but I just heard e-mail is old

Photo George Medina (@soulcaptor)

Photo  Tracie Garacochea (@traciegara)

I just happened to be on a shoot at Venice Skatepark one day last year, and we had a few moments in between shots. I looked over and saw these two rad girls ripping through the park, "free falling" into the snake, and launching off the stairs. Smiling, laughing and encouraging one another, they were having the best time. There was no hesitation on my part, I totally interrupted their session to tell them how frigging badass they were. Jamey was one half of that dynamic duo, and we have been friends ever since. I'm super excited to share more about Jamey here, and let you know all about her rise in the hardcore sport of WCMX, and how she become the current Women's World Champion. Yep. She is pretty badass.  xx



Who's Rad?     Jamey Perry

Home is?    Depends what you mean by “home.” If you mean, where did I grow up, I…

• Was born in Seattle, WA.
• Spent the first five years of my life in San Antonio, TX.
• Split the rest of my childhood traveling between divorced parents in Denver, CO and Baltimore, MD.
• Returned to Seattle for high school and college (at the University of Washington—go, Dawgs!)
• Left the soggy Pacific Northwest for sunny California after graduating college, where I’ve lived in Chico (NorCal), Walnut Creek (Bay Area), and Los Angeles (where I live now).
• Oh, and in the midst of all that, I’ve also lived for a time (less than a year) in each of the following: Grand Rapids, MI; Madison, WI; Houston, TX; and Easton, PA.

BUT! If what you’re really asking is, what feels like Home-Capital-H? The answer is and always will be Los Angeles. My feelings for this city veer into anthropomorphia; I tell people LA is my boyfriend (much to my supremely good-natured husband’s amusement).

Photo Cesar Soares

How long have you been doing WCMX?

I started in June of 2015, so about a year and a half now.

What got you into doing WCMX?

It’s not a “what” but a “who.”

One day about two years ago, I was dicking around on Twitter, and a TV showrunner I follow posted a video called, “Rail Bails.” I had nothing better to do right then, so I clicked. And that video blew my ever-loving mind and changed the course of my life forever.

It was a girl was attacking a rail grind at a skatepark. Over and over she sped toward the rail, hopped on it, and skidded a few feet before toppling sideways, backwards, or forwards. Every time she hit concrete, I flinched. But she kept getting back up and saying, “Again!”

I honestly don’t even remember if she eventually landed the trick in that video; it didn’t matter. I was mesmerized by her tenacity, her skill, and her seriously tricked-out, turquoise-and-pink wheelchair.

Oh, right. Did I mention she was grinding a rail at a skatepark in her wheelchair?

Photo Josh Richardson (@brapp_1410)

Can you explain to our readers what WCMX stands for and what it is about?

WCMX is a mash-up sport, taking elements from skateboarding, BMX, motocross, aggressive quad-skating, etc—and re-purposing it for wheelchairs. The most famous WCMX rider is Aaron “Wheelz” Fotheringham, who tours with Nitro Circus, and practically invented the sport. You may also have recently seen him in the opening ceremony of the 2016 Rio Paralympics, where he launched off a flaming mega-ramp and front-flipped through a ring of fireworks. Again, in a wheelchair.

But if you catch me after two beers, I’ll tell you WCMX is actually a love letter to the wheelchair. For every other adaptive sport, the wheelchair is a stand-in for a pair of legs. Each of those sports were designed first for able-bodied people, and adapted later. You can race, ski, shoot hoops, hike, and play hockey & tennis & rugby without a wheelchair. And most people do.

Not so with WCMX. There is no able-bodied version of WCMX, because WCMX is about the chair itself. It doesn’t exist without the chair, and you don’t need to have a special chair to get started in it (I didn’t). It’s about adapting to your chair, then mastering it, then effing celebrating it.

Photo Steve Christensen (@stevechristensenphoto)

What is your favorite thing to hit at the skatepark?

There’s nothing quite like a nice big roll-in to blow your hair back and send you flying through a snake run. However, nothing scares spectators and impresses other skaters like dropping into a giant bowl over the coping. I usually start my skatepark sessions with that, just to make sure everyone knows right away that the “poor little wheelchair girl” can hold her own.

Tell us about the chair you use for your sport – how is it different than a regular wheelchair?

I said above that Aaron Fotheringham practically invented the sport. But if he’s James Bond, then Mike Box is his Q.

Mike has been building wheelchairs for twenty-five years, since his brother became a paraplegic in a motorcycle accident. When his brother couldn’t find a tennis chair that worked for him, Mike figured he’d try and build one. And that’s what he’s been doing ever since, always innovating and tinkering and being unbelievably generous with his time and talent.

My chair, specifically, has the following modifications that a “regular” wheelchair doesn’t: Fox mountain bike shocks, a four-point suspension, Box’s proprietary “Recoil” forks on the front, Bones Clears for casters, a grind bar, a seat belt, and a ratchet strap across my legs to keep them cinched down when I’m riding.

Can you trick it out to your own specifications?

Yup. Every Box Wheelchair is entirely custom, down to the color of the powder-coat.

Photo Rich Millard

Can you tell us the humorous message that is written on the bottom of your chair that people can read when you are upside down?

Ha! Yes. It says, “If you can read this, flip me over.” ;) But I fear I’m taking too much credit—I saw this joke for the first time, many moons ago, printed (upside down) on the license plate holder of a Suzuki Sidekick. A bit of dark humor on a car that was known to be a tipping risk on sharp turns.

Can this same chair be used for everyday use as well, or is it sport specific?

Before I got my Box WCMX chair, I was using an ultra-light-weight Ti-Lite, which—if it were a car—would be a Lexus Hybrid. But once I got my butt in a Box—if a Ti-Lite is a Lexus, then a Box WCMX chair is a Baja truck—I couldn’t bear the thought of ever putting it in anything else. Until I got a Box everyday chair about six months later, I used that WCMX chair every day, all day.

So, yes.

The downside is that it’s more than double the weight of an everyday chair, and being that I was working as a Production Assistant in Hollywood that summer, hauling the chair in and out of my car upwards of twenty times a day on errands, I was always sweaty.

The upside is that when I was riding my WCMX chair as my everyday, whenever I came across a skatepark, I was always ready.

Photo  Josh Perry (@yeehawwoodworks)

Things are changing rapidly for girls in every sport – what about WCMX – any developments you have seen that are positive for the girls?

I call my friend Katherine Beattie the “First Lady of WCMX” because, when she started riding three-and-a-half years ago, she was virtually the only woman in the sport. Again, like Aaron Fotheringham, it wasn’t that she was the first girl ever to hit a skatepark in a wheelchair. But women’s WCMX looks like it does today almost entirely because of her. The tricks we do (or dream of attempting) and the culture (where enthusiastic mutual encouragement coexists with fierce competitiveness) are all Katherine.

With Katherine as our trailblazer, there’s been an explosion of female participation in the sport, to the point where last year’s WCMX World Championship hosted a Women’s Division for the first time ever.

Additionally, there are a ton of little wheelie girls coming up the ranks who are going to be absolutely unstoppable once they get to be teenagers, having trained in WCMX since they got their first (tiny, adorable, pink, badass) Box wheelchairs.

What advice can you give to girls who may be starting out or want to try WCMX ?

My advice would be to check out my and Katherine’s Instagrams (links below). Also, search the hashtags #wcmx and #wcmxgirl on Instagram and Twitter. There are a growing number of us, and you may find our videos helpful.

I’ve also been toying with the idea of putting up some instructional videos on YouTube, to walk beginners through some starting-out skills, but it’s been a busy season for me, and I just don’t have the video-making skills to do it on my own. (If anyone reading this wants to film and edit, though, I’ll show up and do the tricks and instructional!)

Beyond that, try to locate a WCMX hub near you. The sport is small, but it’s growing, and it’s filled with people excited to help other get involved.

I can’t emphasize enough, however, that there’s absolutely nothing wrong with slapping on some knee- and elbow-pads, and a helmet, and just hitting a skatepark. Maybe take a few AB (able-bodied) friends, fellow skaters if ya got ‘em. And just try some stuff. In the end, WCMX isn’t about getting just the right chair and then signing up for a class with a professional. It’s about the stoke. All the “right” equipment and training in the world can’t replace it. And, if you’ve got the stoke, the other stuff will fall into place. Trust.

Photo Katherine Beattie (@ktbeattie)

Some athletes compete or just film, and some do both – what are your preferences?

Scenario A: Early morning and I’m at a nearly-empty Venice Skatepark with my bestie. We shoot the breeze, warm up, try some new stuff, shoot the breeze, say hi to our skate friends, hop into the snake run, get pushed out by some hot Australians, shoot the breeze again (this is a pattern). Then maybe film a few of the gnarliest stuff we’re trying. On a good day, we get some killer crash footage. On a better day, we land the trick and put it up on Instagram to encourage other girl riders/ show our far-flung WCMX network what we’re up to/ bask in a narcissistic haze of “likes.” ;)

Scenario B: I’m so nervous I can’t sleep or eat. I couldn’t even have a drink the night before because I was so worried I’d be hung-over this morning. I’m back and forth to the bathroom, feeling sick to my stomach. I watch the people competing ahead of me, and try not to hyperventilate as I silently judge my upcoming performance against theirs: Oh, shit, she did the rail. Can I do the rail? Do I wanna chance getting hurt on my first run? Is there anything else I can do that’s equally impressive? Then I win, or I don’t. And go home.

Scenario A is filming. Scenario B is competition. Which do you suspect I prefer?

Photo  Samara Pepperell (@ladytrample)

You are always filming and posting great videos from your park sessions – any tricks you’d like to share with our readers on setting up your iPhone to shoot when you don’t have someone else to help?

I’m lucky enough to have a husband who builds custom furniture (#shamelessplug: Check him out @yeehawwoodworks). It took him all of five minutes to notch a groove into small square of wood, which I lined with earthquake putty, to prop my phone up when I’m out filming alone. But you could fashion the same simple thing out of cardboard if you don’t have a carpenter handy.

Alternately, Katherine uses an inch of hollow aluminum pipe with a u-shaped piece cut out, which accomplishes the same purpose.

Or just buy one of the many phone cases that come with a little fold-out stand.

The point is, use what ya got!

You have also been to Woodward West a few times – what was that experience like?

I’ve only been there once, but it was pretty epic to roll in there after a year of watching other people’s videos of the place.

They have a rad outdoor concrete park, but since it’s the only place near me with a megaramp and a foam pit, I concentrated on my first backflip attempt. Unfortunately, I landed straight up and down, upside down, on attempts 3 and 4, and the last time I really messed up my neck.

I stuck around for another hour or so, trying to enjoy the outdoor park, but I was in too much pain. So my day at Woodward, where I was supposed to send a backflip to foam, got cut short.

You are always on the go – traveling, hitting up skateparks, working, raising your children, learning new tricks – how do you keep in shape & what is your healthy secret for food choices?

I’ve learned that the formula to staying at a healthy weight is 80% diet, 20% activity. As they say, you can’t outrun (or outwheel) your fork. This is especially important for wheelchair users, because our normal health issues can be exacerbated by excess weight.

Also, like the camera, the chair seems to add fifteen pounds—nobody, but nobody, looks as good sitting as they do standing. So I’m careful with what I eat, but it’s really not hard or a “trick.” It’s simple: Don’t eat so damn much. Of course I don’t mean eat less than you need. But Americans are pretty crappy at estimating what we need. We’re, like, waaaaay off.

So yeah, just pay attention to what you’re putting in your mouth. And make sure at least some of it isn’t crème-filled. ;)

Photo George Medina (@soulcaptor)

You have been to quite a few skateparks - can you tell us some of your favorite places you’ve gotten to ride?

Well, Venice is and always will be my home park. I also sometimes hit The Cove in Santa Monica, Pedlow in Van Nuys, or Santa Clarita. Sheldon was my Number Two for a long time, but it’s been closed for months now due to vandalism.

But my favorite place I’ve ever ridden—even above Woodward West—is easily the Berrics. It’s a private indoor skatepark owned by pro skaters Steve Berra and Eric Kosten, and they’ve generously lent it out to the Girls Skate LA coalition a few times.

Skateparks are always good for skateboarders, and most skateparks are pretty rideable for wheelchairs. Others almost seem like they were built with wheelchairs in mind. And that’s the Berrics.


What are your plans for competing in the upcoming year – any contests, filming or photo shoots you are looking forward to?

Katherine and I are doing a spot for Lifetime Television’s “Welcome to the Fempire” promotion (thanks for the hookup, Cindy!).

The next competition on the list is the World Championship in Dallas next spring.

And Katherine and I are working with some people to (hopefully) set up another WCMX competition in Southern California next fall. Watch this space!

Sponsors?

I don’t have any official sponsors—that’s rare in the tiny WCMX community. But I ride a Box Wheelchair with Spinergy Wheels, two companies I think are the greatest. I also want to mention my seat cushion, which is made by Supracor, and was my prize for winning the Women’s Division of the 2016 World Championship. It was generously donated by Supracor after they found out the event’s organizers hadn’t provided a single penny in prize money for the Women’s Division (Oh, you thought misogyny was just an able-bodied thing?)

Favorite books?

The books I can read over and over and over again: Me Talk Pretty One Day by Dave Sedaris, Under the Banner of Heaven and Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer, and The Red Tent by Anita Diamant. I also highly recommend the mind-blowing book, The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot.

Favorite music?

I’m an indie pop/indie folk kinda girl.

Three Things You Don't Know About Me:

1. In 2008, I made more money winning game shows (Merv Griffin’s Crosswords and Trivial Pursuit: America Plays) than I did working.

2. I’m developing a television pilot right now with Michelle Manning, who produced The Breakfast Club, Sixteen Candles, Forrest Gump, and many, many, many more.

3. I still have my baby blanket, which I took on my honeymoon, and sleep with every night, and carry around my house all day. I even—yes, really—bring it to work sometimes. In fact, it’s in my lap as I type this. Consider my freak flag flown.

Make sure you follow on Instagram…

Me: @swellonwheels
Katherine: @ktbeattie

Also, find our most recent video on YouTube (shot and edited by Rich Millard): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MMNH2w04klA

Last words?

Um. Potato?

We saw Instagram posts of this tiny little girl on a pump track, cruising down the street, or flying out of a snake run, always in motion with her long blond hair flying in the wind. Next thing we knew we saw she was throwing a "Chica de Mayo" party to help raise funds for Girls Riders Organization. We wondered how someone who was only nine years old would pull off an event like this... Well, we needn't have wondered because Zoe is full of surprises that belie her young age. Read on to see what this little dynamo is up to next.

Who's Rad?   Zoe Herishen

Age?      9

Home is?       Northern New Jersey

Home park or skate spot is?        Chelsea Piers, NYC


How long have you been skateboarding?

I’ve been skating the skateparks for a little over a year but I’ve been long boarding since I was 5.

What do you enjoy most about skateboarding? 

I love vert. Dropping in is the best feeling in the world. It’s like being on a roller coaster but you’re not strapped in so it’s even more exciting!

Tell us about your board set up – what brand of deck, wheels, trucks? 

 Right now my park board is an ECC longboards skate deck with CORE trucks and Orangatang Onsens Wheels. I also have a really rad Silly Girl Skateboard deck that I won in a contest and just started riding. I stoked it out with Third Kind skate lights and Sunset Skateboard street wheels so it is super cool to ride at night or at the indoor skateparks!

Favorite music to skate to?     I don’t really skate to music


Girls who skate that inspire you?

Well Brighton Zeuner is amazing! I really hope to skate with her some day! I also love Alexis Sablone. She is a great role model for me because she is wicked smart and a really sick skater too. I love school so this is important to me. She proves that you can focus on school and still crush it at the skatepark! Plus she is a NYC skater so she skates the same skateparks that I do.

Favorite place you've ever skated? 

I loved Kona Skatepark in Florida. I probably did the snake run there about 100 times in two days! So much fun!

Tell us about some recent contests you have been in?

I actually competed in Chica de Mayo which was a pump track event for both longboards and shortboards. I wasn’t going to compete since it was my event but the rest of the skaters talked me into it. I came in first in 14U and also took first overall.







Tell us how you came up with the idea to throw your Chica de Mayo skate event?

 I was skating the Brooklyn Bike Park pump track on my longboard. I noticed a guy there skating on his skateboard and it just hit me. I thought it was the perfect place to have both types of riders come to one event. I love to longboard and hit the skateparks. I wanted to have an event where my friends could come no matter what type of board they ride. I brought my idea to Girls Riders Org and they loved the idea and asked me to help them run it. It was an epic event!

Was it hard to organize?

 No, because I had so much support from GRO founder Courtney Payne-Taylor and my parents. My mom organizes events for our PTA and I have always helped her. I have also organized two food drives so I had some experience. GRO NYC has the most amazing crew of girls so when they showed up to help the whole thing ran really smooth.

What would you tell girls who want to do this too?

 Go for it! Don't be afraid that just because you are a kid nobody will take you seriously. Find support like I did. Girls Riders Organization can help you go for your dreams just like they did for me. Having a crew of girls all over the country to reach out to, and visit when I travel is amazing! There are crews all over the country and they are growing every day. Find a GRO crew or start one in your area. It’s the best decision I have ever made!

What was the best part about the day?

Seeing girls from all ages come together skating, competing, and just having fun! That was the best feeling! We had 5 year olds learning to skate and we had Forty year old moms learning to skate. We had skaters looking to compete and skaters just looking to meet other girl skaters. We even had a girl drive down from Boston just for the event! We keep in touch now and are good friends!

Favorite Trick or maneuver?

I love dropping in! It’s my favorite part of skating. I recently dropped in on a 12ft vert ramp in Riverside Park in NYC. It was crazy cool.


Who are your favorite girls to skate with?

 My Girls Riders Organization NYC girls, especially Kendra, Ali, Bombette and Nina. We have the best time together! I also love visiting my Florida girls (Ava, Bree & Sophia) whenever I can. It’s always a great time skating & surfing with them!!

Which female skaters inspire you?

 There are so many great pro girl skaters that inspire me I could never list them all! So I will tell you two that are not pros that really inspire me. Courtenay Payne-Taylor is a huge inspiration to me. She started GRO in a van that she lived in while she traveled the country trying to get more girls to skate. She went from place to place teaching girls and bringing them together at skateparks. It is pretty incredible to me that she has dedicated her whole life to inspiring other girls to skate. I am also very inspired by my friend Jaylee Dutcher who is an adaptive skater and rides for Box Wheelchairs. I saw her in a Life Rolls On video and I was blown away by her. She has spina bifida and does not let it stop her from being a fierce athlete. I reached out to her to tell her how amazing I thought she was. Now we are friends. We have never met but we Facetime and text and I really hope to meet her and skate together one day!! Whenever I think something is too hard I look at Jaylee’s videos and it inspires me to work harder!

Sponsors:

Third Kind Beyond www.thirdkindbeyond.com
Vagabond Beach www.vagabondbeach.com
Syck Trix www.sycktrix.com
Balance Your Life Bracelets www.balanceyourlifebracelet.com

I also have to shout out Triple 8 helmets who keep me well protected by sending me new helmets and pads whenever I need them which is pretty often lately!! www.triple8.com

Three Things You Don't Know About Me

1. I play the ukulele and electric guitar

2. I am totally addicted to Camp Woodward Online Show

3. I am a HUGE math geek and when I am not watching You Tube videos of skating, I am usually on Prodigy math game

What’s Next?

This summer I plan to really focus on my training. I am hoping to take my skating to the next level. I will also be working hard to get better at surfing because I truly love it. I am already working on my next idea with Girls Riders Org. I am hoping to combine my next event for them with a food drive to benefit a local food bank that I volunteer for. I have plans to travel with GRO this year as well. Some of our travel plans include Surf Expo, Exposure Skate and the grand opening of a rad new skatepark in Charleston, SC. I am super excited to join their mission to get more girls skating and can’t wait to meet tons of skaters and make lots of new friends!!

Make sure you follow Zoe at:

Facebook - Zoe Herishen
www.facebook.com/zoeherishen/?fref=ts

Instagram & Twitter - @zoeherishen
www.instagram.com/zoeherishen/

The first day we met Katherine  at Venice Skatepark, it was her smile and welcoming attitude that made us come over and say "hi",  but within minutes we were watching her launch down stairs, rip fast through the snake run, and pretty much take over the park with some serious riding - so much so that OG skate guys were standing back watching with awe. We immediately wanted to know more about this rad girl with the gutsy attitude. Turns out shredding a skatepark and keeping the boys waiting for their turn isn't all this rad lady does - she is the first female to do a backflip in a wheel chair and she's fighting for gender in equality in WCMX. 

Read on to see what Katherine is all about and why she is leading the charge for girls in WCMX.


Who's Rad?    Katherine Beattie

Age?     30

Home is?       Los Angeles, CA

How long have you been doing WCMX?       3.5 years

What got you into doing WCMX? 

I’ve wanted to do WCMX ever since I saw a picture on Myspace of a random dude dropping into a quarter pipe on a wheelchair. Myspace… I can’t even remember how long ago that was! I knew I’d be hitting skateparks as soon as I had my own chair. Almost a decade later, the stars aligned, I met Mike Box (legendary wheelchair designer and the man behind Box Wheelchairs) and got my first chair. I started riding WCMX right away.

Can you explain to our readers what WCMX stands for and what it is about? 

WCMX stands for “Wheelchair Motocross.” Some people refer to it as Chairskating, but as someone who also skateboards, the two sports have little in common, other than the culture and the stoke. I like to describe it as BMX but on a wheelchair.

What is your favorite thing to hit at the skatepark?

Bowls are my favorite by far. The drop in, the landing, carving the wall as high as I possibly can. There’s nothing like it.

Tell us about the chair you use for your sport – how is it different than regular wheelchair? 

I ride a Box Wheelchairs WCMX chair in the park. It’s quite the conversation starter, because people aren’t used to seeing such a tricked out wheelchair. My WCMX chair has 4-link suspension with Fox mountain bike shocks at the rear and custom designed suspension casters up front, which really comes in handy if you’re gapping a huge ledge or dropping into a deep bowl. In addition to the suspension it has an adjustable grind bar, bones SPF skate wheels, sport specific Spinergy rear wheels and numerous straps to keep me connected to the chair.

Can you trick it out to your own specifications?

 Every Box Wheelchair is custom designed to fit the rider. A wheelchair should feel like an extension of your body, so a proper fit is paramount. In addition, in a sport like WCMX different disabilities or conditions will require a different set up. In my case, we went through 4 different grind bars before finding one that worked with my Cerebral Palsy. I use Spinergy Wheels Flexrims instead of a standard pushrim since I have somewhat limited hand function. In terms of color and style, everyone is different… but if you ask me, I have the best looking wheelchair out there. I get compliments on it almost every day!


Can this same chair be used for everyday use as well, or is it sport specific? 

The same chair can absolutely be used for everyday. The first wheelchair I ever purchased was a WCMX chair. I used that in an out of the park until I got an everyday chair 2 years later. WCMX chairs tend to be heavier than everyday chairs, but they’re still a great ride!

You joined the Adaptive Action Sports Team for both skateboarding and WCMX – tell us about your skateboarding skills and what boards you ride?

 I was super into board sports growing up. When I was about 11 years old my twin sister got a skateboard from a skate shop in town, and when I tagged along my dad bought one for me as well, not knowing I couldn’t skate! I quickly taught myself to use one (I thought I was really good, even though I could really only cruise) and skated almost every day for the next 2 years. At 13 I had a very common surgery for kids with CP – hamstring lengthening – and to my dismay I never fully recovered. I was once again unable to skate, but it always stayed with me. Exactly 12 years later, to the day, I attended an event called “They Will Skate Again,” with the Life Rolls On Foundation. There I met Jim “Red Dog” Muir, and he basically stood me up and held me as we skated around the park. I knew then and there I had to get back into it, but Jim wasn’t always going to be around to help me. I decided to get the biggest board I could find, the Dogtown Bigfoot, and started skating on my knees using my hands to push. A year later Jim gave me a Dogtown Bigboy that he was personally riding. I still have both boards and will always ride a Dogtown in honor of Red Dog!


Things are changing rapidly for girls in every sport – what about WCMX – any developments you have seen that are positive for the girls? 

As a young sport, WCMX is changing rapidly. When I first started there were one or two other girls riding. Now we have 10 that ride at a competition level and countless other girls as young as 4 years old that are getting out to skateparks on a regular basis. WCMX is no longer seen as just something for the guys. Girls are learning they can get out there and be just as extreme!

What advice can you give to girls who may be starting out or want to try WCMX ?

Just do it! Even if you don’t see yourself competing on a national stage, WCMX is the best way to learn essential chair skills in a safe environment. All you need is a helmet, pads, a little courage and a friend to help you until you get comfortable. Don’t let the skatepark culture scare you away. You may be nervous at first, but once you get there you’ll see skaters will treat you just like anyone else on four wheels. We’re all there to grow and to support each other, regardless if the wheels are under our feet or under our butts!


You are an extremely positive role model for girls out there, and in addition to that you have been filming and competing more and more lately so we’d like to talk to you about all that.

Some athletes compete or just film, and some do both – what are your preferences?

I love competitions because it gives the WCMX riders a chance to spend time together. As such a small sport that’s spread out over multiple continents, getting to ride with someone else who uses a wheelchair is such a rare treat, so spending an entire weekend with friends and learning from each other is worth all the competition stress. For me though, it’s not really about winning competitions, it’s about getting out to the skatepark as much as I possibly can, and pushing myself a little harder each time. That’s why I love to film, because it gives you a record of your personal progress and achievements. And I always feel like I ride better when the camera is rolling!


You are always filming and posting great videos from your park sessions – any tricks you’d like to share with our readers on setting up your iphone to shoot when you don’t have someone else to help?

 I have a little piece of aluminum pipe with a notch cut into it that keeps my phone steady on the ground. I’d love to get some better equipment, but for now it does the trick! You have to get pretty creative with camera angles, and it’s not uncommon to see me out of my chair crawling up a quarter pipe to set my phone at the best possible vantage point.

You have also been to Woodward West a few times – what was that experience like?

Even though I’ve been to Woodward West multiple times now, I really can’t put into words what it’s like. I have dreamed of going to Woodward ever since I was 12 years old. I never made it as a camper, but when I got the invite from German WCMX Pro David Lebuser a few summers ago I freaked out. In my line of work we don’t have vacation days, so I went to my boss and pleaded with him to leave early, telling him he really couldn’t possibly understand what an opportunity this was. He graciously let me go, and when I got there I was immediately 12 years old all over again. Woodward West is pure heaven. I feel like my heart is going to explode with excitement every time I’m there. There are just so many things to try and new ways to challenge yourself. And for WCMX riders, they have the all important FOAM PIT! When you’re strapped into a 30+ lb piece of metal, there’s no bailing out of tricks, so if you want to try something extreme, it’s gotta be in a foam pit.






You are a total trailblazer – you are the first woman to do a backflip in a chair –that is BADASS! Tell us about that!

When I picked up my first wheelchair from Mike, he told me he made the frame an inch longer so I had space to grab when I was the first girl to land a backflip. Outwardly I thought, “okay Mike, yeah right!” but inside, there was nothing I wanted more. At the time there were only 2 guys who had ever landed the backflip, one being Aaron “Wheelz” Fotheringham, and the other Darryl Tait from Canada. The thought of joining such an exclusive club was really exciting. I first tried it during my aforementioned first trip to Woodward West. I thought it wasn’t going to be that difficult. You just go fast and pull back. Well… it’s hard. It took me 7 hours and over 20 attempts (which involved crawling up stairs and out of foam, and eventually being dragged out after I got too tired) to get the full rotation. Getting that first flip to foam was a feeling I’ll never forget! I had another opportunity to practice that Christmas at Daniel Dhers Action Sports Complex in North Carolina. That time it took 2 days to get the rotation. Then, eight months after my first attempt, I went back to Woodward with fellow riders Blake Simpson and Rico Reyes. Blake is such an amazing rider. He did a flip to foam, decided it was too hard to crawl out and went straight to resi. He got it first try! I knew then and there I was going to get the flip that day. I did three attempts on the resi, and with each one I got farther from landing it. After the third I knew I was going to start hurting if I didn’t go again right away, so I hurried back up the roll in, hucked it and could not believe when I landed wheels down instead on my face. I immediately started crying with excitement, relief, pride and so many other emotions. All the work to get there was so worth it. We all ended up landing flips that day!

Katherine on left, Mike Box middle, Jamey Perry on right

I know you and Jamey fought hard for a women’s division at this years WCMX Championships – can you tell us why this was so important?

I had been the only girl competing (in WCMX and Adaptive Skateboarding competitions) for several years. Each time the reaction was the same. People couldn’t believe there was a girl out there. I love competing with all my guy friends, but I had to wonder if the sport being so male dominated was scaring other girls away from competing. I basically forced a couple girls into competing with me here and there, but I knew if we could get an entire division to ourselves the sport would take off. Having a chance to compete against people of a similar skill level, girls or guys, is a huge confidence booster to everyone. Now people are seeing that WCMX is a sport girls can do -- and excel at -- at a high level, not just A girl who is willing to get out there with the guys.

You had an accident trying your backflip at the championships – can you share what went wrong and how you dealt with it?

Sure. WCMX has exploded as a sport over the last year or so. As a result we had 4 different divisions at the championships! Huge, right? Since there were so many people competing, they combined the beginner, intermediate and women’s practices into one session. I knew I wanted to practice the flip before the contest since the ramp as new to me, and very sketchy. Practice was crowded with tons of little kids. I saw my opportunity, went for it, but halfway down the ramp I knew I had done something wrong, because I was going across the flat in a wheelie. I remember intense pain, blackness and then waking up lying on the ground with my whole body feeling like it was on fire. I watched a video later and saw that I grabbed the front of my frame while I was still on the roll in (probably because I was distracted and the ramp was different, but who really knows?), which caused me to go into a wheelie and hit the back of my head on the quarter pipe, landing with my lower spine on the lip of the ramp. I was diagnosed with a concussion, but thankfully all CT scans and x-rays for any breaks in my spine came back clear. If I hadn’t been wearing my Kali Protectives helmet I probably wouldn’t be here now, so wear your helmet, girls! While I’m now fine, physically, mentally and emotionally the recovery has been painfully slow. Working for an entire year to get to this competition, and having it be the first girls competition that I’d been pushing for for years, and not being able to participate was soul crushing. I can say with complete honesty I wanted to win, but I’m not upset about not winning. Just being forced to sit out of a sport I love and an event I was so looking forward to because of rider error is still too much to think about.

Any things you’d like to see change in the sport?

Now that we have enough girls competing at a high level to have our own division, I’d like to see WCMX girls be treated just like the guys. None of the prize purse was allotted to us like it was the WCMX “pro” (mens) and adaptive skate competitions. I had to go out and personally hustle up prizes from some very generous sponsors and friends in the skate community. We were told we could compete with the “pros” if we wanted a chance at prize money, but that’s not the point. I know this is a refrain heard over an over again in women’s action sports, and WCMX is the next frontier.



You are always on the go – traveling, hitting up skateparks, working, learning new tricks – how do you keep in shape & what is your healthy secret for food choices?

Health and fitness are very important to me. I lift weights 5 days a week, work out with a personal trainer weekly, and add as many skatepark sessions as my aging body can handle. When you have a disability there’s a fine line between pushing yourself and overdoing it, so I try to pay attention to those days when I need to rest as well. I’ve been Vegan for 6 years. People always wonder where I get my protein, but if you eat a balanced diet of whole foods (fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts/seeds and some grains – forget anything that comes in a box) your nutrition will stay on point. Finding something to eat can be a struggle, especially if you’re traveling to competitions, so I try to remember to bring fruit, nuts, meal bars, anything that will give me a quick burst of energy.

You have been to quite a few skateparks - can you tell us some of your favorite places you’ve gotten to ride?

Number 1 has to be Woodward West – a world class facility with amazing staff and new ways to challenge yourself every trip!I’ve also been given the opportunity to ride The Berrics a few times, and it’s like Steve and Eric built that place for WCMX! My favorite parks in town are Sheldon and Venice, but by far the most wheelchair-friendly park we’ve found is Fontana South. We’ve renamed that the Fontana WCMX park. I love to get out and try new places. Palm Springs, Encinitas, SLO, Oxnard… if it’s within a day’s driving distance round trip, I’m there!

The most interesting place I’ve ever ridden is the Mt. Baldy Fullpipe. My friend told me it involved “a bit of a hike” to get there. After feeling like I was in The Goonies or Stand By Me for like an hour it appeared in the distance, but when I got there I found out the only way to cross this 6 foot gap was a rickety piece of wood. Let’s just say crossing that without using my legs and watching my buddy carry my very expensive wheelchair across it after me was very stressful.






What are your plans for competing in the upcoming year – any contests or filming or photo shoots you are looking forward to?

I’m coming off a rough couple of years, so I’m always trying to find the next thing to look forward to. My dad died 2 years ago, and last year on the anniversary I released a WCMX video that I’d been working on for a few months. Since I love filming, I want my next edit to be an all girls WCMX video.

On the contest side, we have our other big WCMX event of the year – Life Rolls On They Will Skate Again – coming up on July 16th. That’s always a great event with people from all over the world enjoying the rad vibes of Venice, and it’s where this whole journey started for me! There’s a clinic in the morning where we get to introduce a ton of little kids and adults to WCMX, and a contest in the afternoon that is always going off. I have a few things planned, but I’m keeping those close to the vest ☺


Favorite Trick?

Backflip! It’s hard to explain, but I completely black out for a split second in the air. It’s so disorienting. Seeing your wheels come back under you and landing it is such a rush!
I also love grinds because they’re such a challenge. I usually get pretty worked trying a new rail, so finally landing feels incredible.



Sponsors? 

 I don’t have any official sponsors, but I’ve been hooked up with some great gear from Kali Protectives, Supracor, G-Form, Dogtown Skateboards and Box Wheelchairs. I’d also like to give a special shout out to Kali Protectives, Supracor, Bones Wheels, Adaptive Action Sports and Sports N Spokes for their generous support of our women’s division at this year’s championships by donating the prizes for our competitors.

Can you tell us about the setup you ride and why it works for you?

I ride a Box Wheelchairs WCMX chair. In my opinion it’s the best chair on the market, and the only one proven to stand up to the Nitrocircus Mega Ramp! I also use Spinergy Wheels Flexrims, Bones SPF 60mms, Bones Swiss bearings, and a Supracor Sport cushion. Box Wheelchairs are the best because they’re custom fit to the rider, and if something’s not working for me I stop by the shop and they won’t stop working till it’s right.


What are your favorite things to do when you are not tearing up the skatepark?

I’m a television writer, so most of my down time revolves around that. Writing scripts, watching TV, binging on Netflix. I also love to explore. I recently went on a solo road trip up through Big Sur and am already looking forward to my next adventure!

Favorite books?

 I don’t read enough! The last book I read was The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime.

Favorite music?

Whatever your parents like - Dolly Parton, Emmylou Harris, Willie Nelson, The Eagles, Van Morrison


Three things you don't know about me?

1. Broccoli is legitimately my favorite food. People think I’m lying.

2. I was all set to try out for the US Paralympic Skeleton Team until I remembered I hate cold weather.

3. I have a twin sister who is 8 inches taller than me. If we’re both standing people don’t even think we’re related, but if I’m on my wheelchair they immediately ask if we are twins!

What’s Next?

Life Rolls On They Will Skate Again – July 16th at Venice Skatepark!

I’ve also recently gotten back into surfing, so on my off weekends I have lots of surf sessions planned, with the goal of one day making the US adaptive surf team.

Make sure you follow Katherine on:

Instagram: @ktbeattie
Facebook: facebook.com/kathskates


Last words?

Don’t let fear hold you back from anything. Fear is what makes it worth it!

She blazed a trail at every contest we saw her in, fast and smooth with style for miles. Slashing and grinding, throwing airs off the hip, and extremely solid rock & rolls. It was almost if she came out of nowhere, yet she was everywhere. Her style is unlike most other girls skating in her age group, it's a rare combination of aggressive, strong, and smooth with a little hint of a smile thrown in here and there when she nails that next trick. She puts together intricate runs in places like combi, that are not what you'd expect from someone her age. Jordan Santana is full of surprises, not only in skateboarding, but out of the pool as well. She plays drums and can sing every lyric to most rock & roll songs from the 70's.  And she is TWELVE.  She is a socially conscience trailblazer and the first female team rider for Hosoi Skateboards. To say we are in complete and utter awe of this young ripper, is putting it mildly. Read on to see what me mean, because Jordan Santana is on FIRE.

Who's Rad?        Jordan Santana

Age?        12 years old

Home?      Houston, Texas

Home Skatepark?

North Houston Skatepark, @nhoustonsk8park, the largest Skatepark in the United States, 2nd largest Skatepark in the world.

How long have you been skateboarding?

I have been skateboarding for 6 years now. However, for the first 4 years, I only skated around the park for fun. I had never skated a bowl until 2 years ago, and that’s where I fell in love with skateboarding. I love skating bowls! I have been skating bowls now for 2 years now.

What do you enjoy most about skateboarding? 

I enjoy the fun of it, the people who skate, the people that I get to meet, the challenges of learning new tricks, and helping girls skateboarding reach new levels. People always ask my father, “how old is he?”, my father says “it’s she not he!” Then they say, “but she skates like a boy!”, and my father says “yes she does!”

 My father and my mentor, Christian Hosoi, believe that my skateboarding style can help take girls skateboarding to new levels. I don’t know about all that, I just know that I’m having a lot of fun doing what I do. In my last competition, I took first place in the girl’s category, and second place in the 14 and under category, basically the boys category. In another bowl bash that I did, there was only two awards given, for best rider and best run of the day, and I won both. There were about 30 skaters, all boys that were teenagers, in their 20s, 30s and 40s, I was the only girl skater. I won both the best rider and best run of the day. They were all saying “I can’t believe that I just got my a— kicked by a 12 year old girl. That was fun!

A lot of the pro girl skaters tell me, “Jordan, we like hanging out with you, because wherever you go, all the legends are always around you. Meeting all the legends, skating with them is so much fun! I love skating with Christian, his family, Eddie Elguera, Lonny Hiramoto, and Stevie Caballero, they all have always been so nice to me and are always so willing to share skateboarding tips with me.

And finally, I love being on Team Hosoi! The skaters on the Hosoi Team are all really great skaters, Christian, Eddie Elguera, Taylor Jett, Lazor Crawford, Lawsen Miller, Classic Hosoi, Me and Kody Tamana. It’s a small team, but we are like family. I was the first girl sponsored by Hosoi, I was so stoked!

Tell us about your board set up – what brand of deck, wheels and trucks? 

HOSOI, HOSOI, HOSOI!!! I have never skated any other deck than a Hosoi deck. My set up has Bones wheels and bones bearings with independent trucks, Grizzly Grip tape and bones rails.

Favorite music to skate to? 

My favorite music to skate to is Green Day, Led Zepplin and Creed, pretty much Rock and Classic Rock.

Girls who inspire you to skate? 

My favorite current girl skaters are Nora Vasconcellos, Sarah Thompson, and Julz Lynn. I am also inspired by the legends that I meet and read about like Cindy Whitehead, Peggy Oki, Patti McGee and Cara-Beth Burnside.

Favorite place you’ve ever skated? 

My favorite place to skate is the Outdoor Vans Skatepark in Huntington Beach, I love the deep bowls and there is always a bunch of kids to play with there.

Can you tell us about some recent contests you have been in?

 Just two weeks ago I was in a contest called Feed The Need, in Victoria, Texas, I got 1st place in girls, and second place in 14 and under, which is basically the boys category. I also was in in a Bowl Bash called Skate and Enjoy, out of about 30 skaters, I got both awards that were given in the Bowl Bash, for best skater, and best run of the day. I was the only girl competitor, and I was the youngest. In larger scaled competitions, I placed 2nd in the Boardr Grind for Life Series in girl’s division, and 3rd place in the boys division, with about 16 boys competing. In my favorite, at the Vans Girls Combi, I placed 8th, and at Exposure I placed 9th.

Favorite trick or maneuver?

 board slide to fakie, front side Smith grinds, front side stale fish, fully decked out fakies and fully decked out rock and rolls.

Who are your favorite people to skate with?

Christian Hosoi, Classic Hosoi, Endless Hosoi, Ryder Reategui, Eddie Elguera, Lonny Hiramoto, Stevie Caballero, Eddie Reategui, Bella Reategui, Nora Vasconcellos and my all time favorite skater sister to skate with, Minna Stess! Me and Minna became really great friends, we facetime all the time.

Which female skaters inspire you? 

Peggy Oki, Cindy Whitehead, Patti McGee and Cara-Beth Burnside, these ladies were the pioneers of women’s skateboarding, they paved the way for us.

Sponsors?

 Hosoi Skateboards, and of course my parents.

Catch Jordan skateboarding and playing drums  in the new Lifetime ad "Welcome to the Fempire". 
Her sister Lauren is also featured - pretty cool to get to work with your sister. 


Three things that you don’t know about me
 
1) I am also a musician, I play drums, I am still learning piano and bass guitar

2) I have done 2 commercials for the Lifetime Channel called Welcome to the Fempire, basically the female empire. I really like this because the commercials celebrate the empowerment of women, and they were really fun to do. I skate and play drums in the commercials.

3) God first, I have been raised with a Christian faith background, I give all thanks to my God for all He has done for me, and for keeping me safe in skateboarding.

What’s next?

Training! Training! Training! At least that’s what my dad calls it. I call it having fun! One thing to train on is my airs, my front side and back side late grabs. Continuing to train with my father, and with Christian Hosoi. Christian and I have a special friendship, I just love his style. He has been called the most stylish skater ever, and judges in some of my competitions have commented on my style and my tricks and have said, “Wow! I wonder where she learned that from?” It is truly an honor that he personally trains me, we are like family. While sitting in the crowd at the last Vans Pool Party, the boys that were sitting behind me kept telling each other, “yeah! That’s Jordan, Christian Hosoi’s daughter.” Me and my father, who was sitting next to me, just laughed about it.

I continue to do demos here and there with Christian, which are a lot of fun. My dad is sending a photo where Christian invited me to do a demo with him for Penny Skateboards, it was really cool! I have been all over California, Texas, New York and Brooklyn with Christian. When I did the Boardr Grind for Life competition in Florida, I was so surprised that they already knew who I was when I got there to register for the competition, that was so Rad! It is awesome when someone comes and asks me to take a picture with them, or sign an autograph for them. I train 3 to 5 hours a day, everyday. Sometimes on weekends, I’ll skate 6 to 8 hours. I’m having so much fun!

Make sure you follow Jordan on:   Facebook, I have a Jordan Santana “Athlete” page, on Instagram I am listed as @extremelife2003, and my sponsor is at www.hosoiskateboards.com , my father posts most of my photos on his Instagram page which is @lawyer4life

Last Words?

Thank you Cindy for allowing me to take part in this Who’s Rad Interview. Thank you for all you have done for us girl skaters. You are a true legend in skateboarding! I saw you on stage at the Skateboarding Hall of Fame, and I wished that I was you. I hope one day I can be looked up to like you.   Love, Jordan.

Photo: Ocean Surface

She comes from the South Bay where many great skaters since the 60's have come before her. Male and female, they shredded these streets before there were even skateparks.  The first skateboard contest ever held was in the same place (Pier Avenue Jr. High) where her home skatepark sits now.  The history of skateboarding in the South Bay is long and rich. Two pro skateboarders from this area were inducted into the Skateboarding Hall of Fame just this past month - Ty Page and Girl is NOT a 4 Letter Word founder Cindy Whitehead. It's is also home to skate legends like "Kevin the Worm" Anderson and the inventor of The Smith Grind, Mike Smith. Current pro skateboarder Mason Silva also calls the South Bay home.  We can only assume that you may see this young girl standing up there at a SHOF event making the South Bay proud once again years from now. In the meantime, Hannah is skating every place she can, competing with the boys (and winning) and not looking back. Way to represent the South Bay, we are stoked to see it Hannah!


Who's Rad?   Hannah Tallman

Age?       15

Home is?       Redondo Beach

Home Park or Skate spot is?       Hermosa Beach Skatepark

How Long Have You Been Skateboarding?       1 ½ years

Photo:  Chris Van Berkom

What do you enjoy most about skateboarding? 

The aspect that I can be myself and it makes me feel like I’m in my own world when I am skating! I don’t know what I would do without skateboarding!

Tell us about your board set up:

 I ride a 8.0 Baker Skateboard, 52 mm formula four spitfires, and 139 Independent trucks.

Favorite music to skate to? 

Rap and Rock and Roll because it gets me hyped!


Girls who skate that inspire you?

 Mariah Duran because she has a sick street style! To be honest I just watch male skateboarders most of the time. My favorite skateboarder in the world is Trevor Colden I could watch his videos for hours! Whenever I watch one of his videos it makes me want to get up and skate!


Favorite place you've ever skated? 

The Berrics

Photo:  CJ Hoff

Tell us about some recent contests you have been in?

 I just went to a contest a few weeks back in Seattle for the X Games qualifier. Also a few months back I had a contest in Palm Springs, 13-15 year old boys and got 1st place!


Favorite Trick or maneuver? 

Kickflips are my favorite trick

Check out Hannah's Park Part for Spyder Skate Shop

Who are your favorite people to skate with?

My brother Luke and my best friends Danny, Kwess, and Luke


Which female skaters inspire you? 

Vanessa Torres because she is super chill and has a cool style and steez when she skates!

Photo:  David Mo

Sponsors:

@BakerSkateboards and @Spyderboards   (Spyder skate shop)



Three things you don't know about me:

1. When I skate I always have earbuds in, and am very focused

2. I tap my board 3 times before going off a stair set.

3. I am a class clown, I am always laughing and messing around.

What’s Next? 

I have a contest coming up at the end of June in Vista Ca, at the new Academy Skatepark. I will be competing in 13-15 year old boys division.


Make sure you follow Hannah on instagram  --->    @Hannah_sk8._

Photo Dontae Rockymore

Photo Jacob Bain

We first heard about skater Christiana Smith when her video "Skating in a Dress" came out a few years back. We were intrigued by this girl who ripped and also had a point of view on the female gender that she was willing to share so publicly.  We finally met up with her in person at contests here in Southern California and knew she needed to have a "Who's Rad" on the GN4LW site, so the rest of the world could learn about all she is doing in skateboarding and the positivity she spreads, not just in skating, but in life. Read on and prepare to be inspired by this awesome skateboarder! xx



Who's Rad?   Christiana Smith

Age:       19

Home is?         Detroit, MI,  living in Los Angeles, CA

How long have you been Skating?      8 years

Type of skateboarding you do?

Street, but I like skating everything. Grew up skating a lot of mini ramp and halfpipes.

Photo Savannah Miller

What got you into skateboarding?

 I think I was always interested in it but a couple of my friends from school started doing it and that’s when I got a board and did it with them, ever since then I was hooked.

What made you decide to keep skateboarding?

 It just became something I fell in love with and became passionate about. My friends used to say I was “obsessed” with skateboarding haha. I just love everything about it, the culture, friends from all over, landing tricks, and overcoming battles.

Christaina's Video - "Skating in a Dress?"

You did a film a few years ago called “Skating in a Dress?” – can you tell us about what made you decide to do this film?

We had to do a mini documentary project for my college video class and this idea came to me one day, I knew I wanted to do it, I wrote down all my ideas and planned it out then got to filming. I felt that it was the perfect way to present a message that I wanted to be shared and could affect others. I felt like it would show who I really am cause not everyone in my class knew I skated and of course get some skate tricks in.


What was the response like after the video came out?

Unreal, it was honestly the best thing ever. I got responses from people all over the world about how inspiring it was and how that was what they went through as a girl skater and great to know they’re not alone. People would send me long messages, it meant and still does mean so much to me. It inspired me on many levels to continue to spread messages of positivity because you never know who you can affect.

We know you speak out on gender issues and you do so in a very calm & respectful way – have you always felt it was important to speak up for women & girls?

I’ve always believed that any type of discrimination should be brought to light and addressed so we can move forward. I was lucky enough to have found a good way to share that message in a video like “skating in a dress” where everyone, guys and girls, can enjoy and learn something .



Can you tell us a bit about your new organization, “A Positive Seed” and what your goals are with that project?

Honestly after the the responses from skating in a dress I was super inspired to continue spreading positive messages and inspiring others to do the same. It’s a company I wanted to start to represent planting seeds of positivity in every aspect of life. Whether it be helping out a kid who looks lost at a skatepark, sitting with someone who’s alone at lunch, or just complimenting a friend. Kind acts like that can go a long way and I call them seeds of positive change. For example some of the responses I got from skating in a dress where people said they were inspired. Plant positive seeds and watch them spread and inspire many to do the same.

How can people get involved if they would like to be on board?

Anything you do that is positive and moving the world forward in a positive direction is really being A Positive Seed. You can log onto Apositiveseedco.com and send a message or tell us about seeds you spread. We also have beanies and stickers to represent.

Photo Hannah Smith

You attended (or are attending?) Otis College of Art & Design – was it/is it hard, juggling school, work and skateboarding?

I actually took the year off and started working this year but will be attending Otis in the fall. But even work and skating can suck sometimes when all the homies are out skating and I can’t skate that day.

What are you studying and where would you like to go with your career?

Photography and Digital Media. I would just like to be doing things I love and am happy with. Taking photos, traveling, skateboarding, making videos, etc.

Do you see yourself merging your loves – skateboarding and art/design?

Totally, I already do, and skateboarding is the perfect thing to be able to do that with because it’s such an art itself.


Skateboarding is changing rapidly for girls - what positive changes have you seen for girls in the sport out there?

I see a good amount of changes out there. It’s sick that there are more amateur contest out there and cash prizes being awarded. It’s honestly the best just to see more girls out there doing it. I see more girl skaters then there ever was before and such a wide age range as well.

Photo Hannah Smith

What advice can you give to girls who may be starting out skateboarding and also those who are competing at the amateur level?

Just to have fun and make sure you’re always having fun. Don’t get frustrated and don’t give up.

You are an extremely positive role model for girls out there, and in addition to that you have been filming and competing more and more lately so we’d like to talk to you about all that.

You have been filing recently for “Quit Your Day Job” – can you share what the experience has been like for you?

It’s been sick getting to be out street skating in LA and take little skate trips like to SF and stuff. Such a fun and sick experience, some of the best times in my life, super grateful.


We saw you at Exposure and Poseiden’s Ladies Day at the Berrics this summer – do you enjoy the contest scene?

Yeah it was such a fun day! So hype to have all those girls out there even the pros.

Photo Don Sheffler

You are always on the go – traveling, skating, learning new tricks – how do you keep in shape & what is your healthy secret for food choices? 

 I just skate a lot and work out sometimes to stay up to beat and rehab my ankle I’ve injured in the past. I honestly have no healthy food choices, I wish I did I wanna start eating healthier.

You have traveled quite a bit now for skateboarding, can you tell us some of your favorite places you’ve gotten to skate?

Camp Woodward in Pennsylvania is pretty perfect probably the best place I’ve ever skated. But I love anywhere new I get to skate and experience like Seattle, San Fransisco, and even here in LA.

What are your plans for competing in the upcoming year – any contests or filming or photo shoots you are looking forward to?

Looking forward to finishing a street part and Wheels of Fortune in May!


Favorite place to skate?      Modern Skate Park in Royal Oak Michigan

Photo Dontae Rockymore

Favorite Trick?          Front Shuv, Nose Grind, Combo tricks ( sorry that was a couple haha)

Sponsors?       Modern Skate and Surf

Can you tell us about the setup you ride and why it works for you?

I’m not the pickiest person about my setup but I ride a size 8 board I think that's a pretty good size. I just got these Tensor mag light trucks and I love them. It makes my setup super lightweight which is really good for me.


Any thoughts on the possibility of skateboarding being added to the 2020 Olympic Games?

 I think that’s amazing. A super great opportunity for women’s skateboarding as well.

What are your favorite things to do when you are not skating?

Take photos, travel, explore, be with family and friends.

Favorite book?       Night by Elie Wiesel.

Favorite music?

I have a super wide range I can like anything from electronic music to 70s to hip hop to alternative to almost anything but country music really.

Photo Dontae Rockymore

Three Things You Don't Know About Me:

1. I used to play basketball on teams and in tournaments before I started skating. I stopped for skateboarding, I still like basketball.

2. I grew up with a full sized trampoline in my living room.

3. I was voted “Class clown” in middle school haha

What’s Next?

Planning a couple of events in the future at Modern Skatepark in Royal Oak, Michigan. I wanna do a girls contest there. It’s a huge indoor park with something for everyone. It would be such a sick event and opportunity for girls on the East coast and Midwest to come out to.


Make sure you follow Christina on:    Instagram/ Twitter/ Facebook: @ChristianaSmith @Apositiveseedco

Photo Heidi Lemmon

She rides like she isn't afraid of anything, fast and determined. She reminds us a bit of Julz Lynn. Fearless. Watching 10 year old Vianez Morales skate at Venice Skatepark is like being back in the 70's and seeing skateboarding at it's purest. She doesn't think about "contest lines", points and what scores big with the judges - she just skates. She picks each run based on how she feels at that moment and executes trick after trick, back to back, so well that it just all flows together. Then you stop and take a look at the video you shot and realize the line she just put together was totally sick!  We hope you enjoy getting to know Vianez.


Who's Rad?       Vianez M. Morales

Age?     10

Home is?       Luquillo, PR

Home Park or Skate spot is?       Backyard skatepark

How Long Have You Been Skateboarding?      4 years

What do you enjoy most about skateboarding?

Meeting people from different places in the world.

Photo Heidi Lemmon

Tell us about your board set up – what brand of deck, wheels, trucks? 

 I ride with Salt Rags skateboard decks, independent trucks, spitfire wheels

Favorite music to skate to?            Katy Perry

Girls Who Skate that inspire YOU:

Letica Bufoni, Samaria Brevard, and Lacey Baker

Vianez having fun at her fav park / Photo Heidi Lemmon

 Favorite place you've ever skated?      

Venice Beach Skatepark

Vianez at Venice Skatepark / Photo Heidi Lemmon

Tell us about some recent contests you have been in?    

 Makaha Bowl Jam 2015

Vianez killing it on the stairs during Ladies Day at the Berrics / Photo Heidi Lemmon

You were at Ladies Day at the Berrics – how was that to be around so many girls who skate? 

Really fun because all the girls ride street like me.

Vianez with Sky at the photo shoot for #ShePlaysWeWin - photo by Christin Rose

You also did your first big shoot with photographer Christin Rose for her project “She Plays We Win” and you got to skate with your friend Sky Brown from Japan – tell us what the photo shoot was like?

Really cool because Sky is a cool skater and we both love to skate the same things.

Favorite Trick or maneuver?     

Early grab


Sponsors:

Salt Rags
Mom and dad.


Three Things You Don't Know About Me:

1. I love Micheal Jackson
2. I love to surf
3. i love art (painting, drawing, etc..)

What’s Next?

Kick flips and 50-50 on a rail or box.


Make sure you follow Vianez:

on  instagram @vianezsk8
and Vianez M. Morales on  facebook

Photo: Todd Fuller

We heard about 11 year old Asiya Mercado through one of our fav pro skate photographers Todd Fuller.  He sent us some photos he had shot of Asiya and we were blown away. Once we started checking out the Mercado Kids instagram page, and watching short video clips of Asiya skate, we new we needed to share her story.

This is the beauty of social media,  there are so many girls out there that have started skateboarding, but they may not compete so you don't see them at contests. These rad girls may just be skating at their home park, or backyard bowls, and only a few people know about how hard they are ripping. The numbers of girls skating may be even higher than we think - which is awesome!

We hope you enjoy getting to know little ripper, Asiya Mercado!



Who's Rad?      Asiya Mercado

Age?      11

Home is?        Fremont, CA

Home Park or Skate spot is?     Fremont Skatepark

Photo: Asiya's Mom

How Long Have You Been Skateboarding?       About 2 years

What do you enjoy most about skateboarding?

Creating lines in the bowl and landing a trick after I’ve failed on it over and over feels really good!

Photo: Todd Fuller

Tell us about your board set up – what brand of deck, wheels, trucks? Any fave stickers on your board?

I have a Silly Girl skateboard, Bones wheels, Independent Trucks, and rails, and my favorite sticker on my board is my Thrasher sticker (but I have a good collection of stickers like Santa Cruz, Spitfire and Vans).

Favorite music to skate to?

I don’t usually listen to music when I skate, but if I did it would probably be Lupe Fiasco.

Girls Who Skate that inspire YOU:

My older sister, Layla, was the first to inspire me to skate! We first used to longboard at empty parking lots! Other girl skaters that inspire me are Julz Lynn, Lizzie Armanto, Nora Vasconcellos, Mimi Knoop, Beverly Flood, Poppy Starr, Alana Smith, Amelia Brodka and Allysha Bergado.

Photo: Todd Fuller

Favorite place you've ever skated?

Lake Cunningham Skatepark

Favorite Trick or maneuver?

 50-50 Revert, Front Lipslide and Blunt to Fakie

Sponsors:   My mom and dad, and just recently a new brand called Crossbreed Athletics.

Photo:  Photography by KC Chen

Three things you don't know about me:

1. I do Martial Arts (boxing, Muay Thai, Judo and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu)

2. I can play the Duff (an Arabian hand drum)

3. English Toffee doesn’t last overnight in my home!


What’s Next?

I haven’t really planned on doing any skate contests yet. It would be amazing to compete in a contest with skaters I have looked up to! For now, I enjoy just watching and just skating!

Make sure you follow Asiya ---->

I share an instagram with my brother and sister, mostly monitored by my dad @Mercadokids_bjjsk8, and you might also find me tagged on @CrossbreedAthletics and @Guerrillajjpleasanton

Chula Vista Lonboarding

Nwest Media

When the new Maryhill She Ride event poster was released on social media all we could do was stare at it, the drawing was so realistic and the attention to detail was amazing!  It was like you were there. So we set out to find out who did this drawing & we were stoked to discover that it was Carly Bizma who is a downhill skater herself. Read on to hear about how Carly combined her two loves, skateboarding and art, and what she's up to next!

Who's Rad?     Carly Bizama aka "Gnarly Carly"

Age?      24

Home is?         I'm from Santiago, Chile but my home is in Concord, CA now.

How long have you been skating?

I started skating around 2012 but I didn't get into downhill skating until mid 2013.

What got you into skateboarding?

I always wanted to skate since I was little but always felt it was something I couldn't do. Then when I was about 21 I was going through some hard times and I decided to pick up something new to lift myself up, so I started skating. It turned out to be exactly what I was missing in my life.

Dual Snap Photography

Your artwork is amazing - can you tell us how you got started?

I got started very young, when I was about 6 years old I used to draw cartoon network characters and sell them to my classmates haha. I have always loved to draw from pictures so I eventually got into realism.

What is your favorite medium to work with – charcoal, pencil, etc?

By far my favorite is charcoal pencil, I've always loved graphite pencil but using black and white charcoal on toned paper makes the process so much more fun!

Tabea

Your charcoal drawings look exactly like photos – in fact I did a double take on a couple of them thinking they were black and white camera shots – how long does it take you to do something as realistic looking as these beautiful pieces?


It depends on the drawing but for example I've made some 8 x 11 drawings in about 15 hours and then some other bigger ones like 18 x 24 in have taken me up to 30 hours or even more.

Carly's drawing of skateboarder Alicia Fillback

You have also combined your two loves – skateboarding and art - with the new, and amazing, Maryhill She Ride poster – how did that all come about?

Thanks! Well I did a few drawings of girl skaters that got some attention and from there I was lucky enough to have people from the skating community contact me to draw them their own skate portraits. And so I was commissioned to make the poster for this rad event which by the way it was something I always wanted to do, so it made me really happy when Maryhill Ratz contacted me.

I noticed you also did a design for your grip tape that was stunning – are all your boards custom grip by you?

Thank you! Yes, all of my boards are painted by me, except for my downhill set up since the griptape is too coarse.

What about your helmet – does it have your art work gracing it?

My helmets don't have any art by me yet but that is something I plan to do, I really want to paint my full face helmet at some point.

Will you be competing at Maryhill?

I won't be competing at Maryhill but I will be going to the SheRide and possibly the fall freeride. I just really like to skate for fun and racing is not something that I'm super interested in or I feel ready for right now.

What advice would you give to another girl who wants to get started longboarding?

I would say do it! Be prepared to fall and get back up, don't be shy and reach out to other skaters, challenge yourself, but most importantly have fun!

Sidney Panelo

Are there any women out there doing rad things  that inspire & motivate you?

Definitely! First one that comes to mind is my friend Alicia Fillback, she is a badass skater and amazing artist too. She is a huge inspiration for me and she is also the first skater I drew! :) She has her own brand The Animus Code worth checking out! Other girls skaters that inspire me are Carmen Shafer, Yvonne Byers and Jennifer Zi; all amazing skaters and people.

Any healthy eating habits that keep you energized you can share with us?

I actually went vegetarian the same week I got my first board, and it has definitely helped me become healthier and feel better about what I eat.

Favorite place you've ever skated?

I can't really think of a single one but my favorite thing to do is to skate in SF, whether at the skatepark or skating hills San Francisco just makes me so happy!


Favorite Trick or maneuver?

I really like sit down slides! Those were the first no hand slides I learned and I just love them, sit down checks just feel so right.

Sidney Panelo

Sponsors? 

I don't have any sponsors but I would like to give a shout out to Team Killsauce, 1triprotective and Remember Collective who have hooked it up before, thank you! And also to all of my friends that have helped me out with gear at some point. I'm really grateful for all the awesome people that make up the skating community.

Three Things You Don't Know About Me:

1.  I was bit by a monkey at the zoo when I was 8 years old.

2.  I moved to the US when I was 16 years old and I learn most of the slang from watching Family Guy.

3.  I collect books about artists and occasionally children's books when I find they have cool illustrations.

What’s Next?

I don't have many solid plans for the year but I'm hoping to make it to more skate events than last year, make prints of my drawings and I also want to start designing board graphics.

And I would like to add that I'm open more commissions right now so if anyone is interested my email is artbycarlybizama@gmail.com

Carly's drawing of skateboarder Carmen Shafer

Make sure you follow Carly at:

Carly's Facebook art page
Instagram @gnarly_x_carly
Tumblr (art blog


The Maryhill She Ride takes place August 15 - 16 - it's a great event bringing together female skaters of all levels for a fun weekend skating the famous Maryhill loop road - to find out more info about the She Ride and sign up, click HERE

Photo: Vivid Photography by Wayne

Photo: Vivid Photography by Wayne

When you're only 15 years old and make a video of yourself riding BMX and title it "This is My Kitchen", we know you have got to be a girl we want to know better. Nikita Ducarroz is now all of 18, but her passion for BMX has just gotten stronger and stronger (check out that cool bike tattoo on her ankle) since she first made that video that grabbed so much attention. She rides and holds her own in contests with guys, trains with the Hoopla skate team at Woodward West, and is out there making strides each and every day for the sport she loves. We couldn't be more stoked to bring you this one on one interview with an inspring girl like Nikita!


Who's Rad?    Nikita Ducarroz

Age:    18

Home is:    Sonoma, CA

How long have you been riding BMX?    

Since 2010, so going into my 5th year of riding!

Photo: Chris Friedrichs

What got you into BMX?

I’ve always sort of had a thing for action sports. I vaguely remember going to X Games in 1999 (I was 4) and when I was 8 I started snowboarding with my aunt. When I was around 13 I stumbled across some youtube videos of some kids doing BMX tricks and I really wanted to try it…it just really looked fun! Not too long after that I got my first BMX bike.

Are you Pro or Am?

 There’s not really a straightforward answer.  When I compete with guys, I compete in the Am class.  But with girls, I am always riding in “Pro”.  The past year or so however, I have started transitioning from getting flowed product, to having budgets involved, whether it be from sponsors covering travel/events, doing video projects with them, or commercial jobs.  It still doesn’t really change how or why I am riding, but it definitely helps me to get around, and just the thought that it’s come this far is crazy for me to think about, because it feels like yesterday I was buying my first BMX bike and riding around in the driveway without any idea I could take it further than that.              

You seem to be very comfortable riding any type of terrain, what are your favorite places to ride?

I am definitely trying to get more comfortable riding everything I can! As long as I’m on my bike having a good session with friends, we could be riding in a parking lot and it would still be awesome! I think park was always my strongest just because that’s what I started riding with, but I’ve really been getting into street a lot lately and it’s a blast! You’ll see some of that very soon in my new video.

Photo via G-Form

Can you tell us about your bike set up ?

 I am currently riding a Zorg custom frame (made by my good friend Luke), with mostly Alienation and Haro parts. Apart from the fact that those companies help me out, I trust the parts and have a lot of respect for the people behind the company. When I see people doing good things, it just naturally makes me want to support them.

BMX is changing rapidly, what positive changes have you seen for girls in the sport out there?

Just in the short amount of time since I have been riding I’ve noticed the amount of girls that have started riding has blown up since 2010. The community just gets bigger every day. Also some of the biggest overseas contests like FISE and BMX Worlds have girls classes. There’s definitely a lot more that I would like to see happen, but we’re making progress for sure.

Photo Via @PeopleFw

We've seen your video “This is My Kitchen” – great title, can you tell us what made you decide to put this video out and how you picked that catchy title?

Thanks! The video was really just one of my edits that I was putting out every 6 months or so to mark my progress. As for the title…back around 2011 I was bored and thought why not write a phrase on my helmet? I would always see comments on videos of female athletes that said “go back to the kitchen!” and stuff like that, so I thought it would be funny to throw that on there to say “I am in the kitchen, mine just looks different”. My helmet was getting a lot of attention so I guess I just figured it would be a good title for my next video!

Photo via L.W. Riser

What advice can you give to girls who may be starting out riding BMX and also those who are competing at the amateur level?

When I first started riding, it was only in my driveway. Then I met some local riders and started riding the skatepark. It’s a lot more fun and less nerve racking with a friend.

For AM competitors, I think the most important thing is to have fun! I absolutely love contests, yet I still tend to get extremely nervous beforehand just thinking about having everyone watching me and stuff. What I have to remind myself is that all these people competing are my friends! We are all just out here for a fun time, to cheer each other on, and to help each other to step out of our comfort zones. I think that’s a good thing to remember, I’m just learning it all as I go as well!



How do you keep in shape for your career as a BMX rider and what is your healthy secret for food choices?

Oh man, I know the people close to me are laughing when they read that question. I really just ride my bike. I definitely would love to get some sort of workout routine going, but right now there’s nothing. As for food, let’s just say my favorite things to eat are meat, salad, and ice cream. But honestly, my family in general eats really healthy. When I was younger I hated it, but I definitely appreciate being raised that way now (thanks mom!). I’m usually a big eater, but on contest day it’s harder for me, so I typically try to at least eat a protein bar (Builder Bars are my favorite right now!).

Photo: Dave Smith

What are your plans for competing in the upcoming year – any contests you are looking forward to?

This year is my busiest one yet! The main contests I’ll be hitting this year are a couple Recon Tour stops and The Little Big Women’s Ridestyle event in Truckee. I’ll mostly be in California, but also plan on going to Arizona, Vegas, and maybe more. I have tons more little events throughout the year as well that I can’t wait to ride at!


You recently filmed a commercial involving BMX  what was that experience like?

The shoot was for a Columbian soft drink commercial.  Initially when the gig was brought to my attention, I was really really nervous, to the point where I was pretty much ready to say no.  BUT, I decided not to let the anxiety get the best of me this time, called up my buddy Bryce (who does commercials a lot) and the next week we were both on our way to LA!  We still haven’t seen the commercial, but it was one of the coolest experiences of my life.  The shoot lasted 12 hours, and we did a bunch of stuff including drinking soda for an hour for a close up shot (I didn’t drink soda for quite a while after that LOL), as well as doing tricks in an empty lap pool, and the LA River banks.   

Nikita getting her make-up  done while shooting a commercial in LA

Favorite place you've ever ridden?

Oh man, that’s a hard one. I would have to say it’s between Claremont Skatepark (in San Diego) or Woodward West, but there’s been so many cool places I’ve gotten to see!

Favorite Trick or maneuver?

A boosted table is good any day! There are so many fun tricks though, and endless possibilities!


Who are you sponsored by?  

 Really grateful to the following companies who have helped me out:

G-Form
Alienation Inc
Joby Inc 
Haro Bikes
Fight Dentist Mouthguards 






You  put out a video recently where you answered people’s questions about you, your bike, and even more personal things– which we though was awesome – what made you decide to do that?

 It was actually really random! Someone commented on my Instagram suggesting I do a Q&A. I thought it might be fun, so I tried it out! I think it went really well, I even had to narrow down questions to two pages because originally I had 5 and I wanted to keep the video under 10 minutes.


You have a new video dropping – can you tell us about that?

Basically it was another one of my edits I try to put out every 6 months or so, this one just took way longer. I noticed I hadn’t made a new video in a while, so I hit up my friend Kevin and he agreed to help me out! That was over a year ago. Since we started attempting to film a video, I broke my foot two separate times, and also all his gear got stolen. There was a lot of breaks and starting over that went into this video, but I’m really happy that it’s finally complete! It should be dropping in the next few weeks, just in the editing process right now.


Any other plans/things you are working towards this year?

This year will basically be going to as many contests/events as I can, keeping up with school, and just continuing to progress all around! No projects with sponsors in the works at the moment, but I do love me some projects, so I’m sure something will pop up soon! I think the biggest challenge this year will be getting on a plane again. I stopped flying when I was 11 due to extreme anxiety about it and finally last year got on a plane for the first time in 7 years to attend a contest in Indiana. I want to continue that and get on at least one other plane this year to get to a contest, so we will see what happens!

Photo: Tucker Norred

Three things you don't know about me:

1. I was born in France and am fluent in French

2. People think I’m a daredevil because of what I do on a bike, but I’m actually a pretty big scardey cat!

3. I did high school completely online and finished in 3 years.

What’s Next?

I will be attending Girls Week at Woodward Tahoe (last year I was there along with the Hoopla crew) and it was the best week of my life! I’m so used to riding with all guys I never realized how rad it is to spend a whole week with girls who share the same passion as you do. Nothing better than nice weather, shredding with other girls, and sharing your passion with girls who are newer to the sport! I’d definitely love to see even more girls sign up this year!


Make sure you follow Nikita on her INSTAGRAM and TWITTER

 The first time we saw a video of Sky was when her dad sent us some clips of her, after the first 2 seconds it had our full attention. The girl RIPS. You forget she is only 6 years old - she's throwing down 360 grabs while laughing and having fun. This girl loves to skate and has NO fear. Her goal is to come to the USA for Exposure contest next year - lets hope she does because we know she has a lot of fans here and we'd all love to see her skate in person! Yeah Sky - so stoked to do this interview with you - you are inspiring girls EVERYWHERE. xx



Who's Rad?     Sky Brown

Age?     6

Home is?        Miyazaki City, JAPAN

How long have you been skateboarding?           3 years

How long have you been surfing?       2 years

What got you into these 2 sports? 

I’ve been going to skate parks with my dad ever since I can remember It always been way more fun for me than regular parks, I just prefer Ramps and Bowls to Swings and Slides they are just sooo much more fun.

When I was little I used to hassle my dad to go with him for the morning surfs so I could play on the beach, I would even get into the car and refuse to leave, then one day my dad got me a soft board and pushed me into some small waves, and that was that. I was hooked pretty fast hahaha. Now I get up super early every morning and jump on my dad until he wakes up and takes me surfing.

What do you enjoy most about both surfing and skateboarding?

I love going really fast on my skateboard esp. in a bowl, being able to pop high and getting new tricks down, is just soo fun. Flying down the line on a wave its just the funnest thing ever... Also my friends, I really love Skating and Surfing my friends.

The girls I surf with are Rina, Aimee, Mana, Shino and Kaho, they are all double my age (12, 13, 14) but they are so funny and really good surfers they always make me laugh. It’s funny because we just sit in the lineup of adults just laughing and playing as girls do, but when the sets come we are all down to business. I don’t like being indoors and I really enjoy just being in the ocean.

Girls Who Skate that inspire YOU:

Bryce Wettstein cos she’s such a good skater and she’s my #1 hero, I really want to be like her, I always watch her youtube videos they make me so pumped and happy. she’s so funny and sooo awesome and cool. Also Brighton Zeuner, Spencer Breaux, Sabre Norris, Alana Smith


Girls that Surf that inspire YOU?

Bryce Wettstein again cos shes surfs so nice and shes my hero haha, and Zoe Benedetto (heavy Z) shes uber cool. Also Quincy Davis, Carrissa moore, and my surfer girlfriends here at home Rina, Kaho, Shino, Mana, and Aimee.

Favorite place you've ever skated? 

Miyazaki City Skate Park which is my local and is sooo good and Treasure Isle Bowl which is an indoor wooden bowl with pool coping and is so mega to blast around, and of course San Clemente Skate Park that one’s soo fun.

Favorite place you have ever surfed?

Kizakihama a beachie in Miyazaki for sure, its like 4 mins from my home, and it’s just the best beach break ever, and some of the reef breaks near my home in Miyazaki.

Favorite Trick or maneuver – skateboarding?   

Boneless’s and 360 GRABS they are just too fun

Editors Note: We'd also say launching herself off of anything she can is another Sky Favorite ...

Favorite trick or maneuver – surfing?

That has to be Cutbacks, and pumping down the line really fast.

Sponsors:

 Moonjelly Wetsuits , 5050waveskates surfboards by BEN WEI,
FLAKE clothing, Greenfix ECO Surfwax   XS helmets  PRIDE SOCK

Three Things You Don't Know About Me?

1. I love to dance all the time so does my little brother Ocean, he is pretty good, I taught him all his moves. we pretty much don’t have a day that goes by that we don’t have a dance

2. I hate vegetables YUCK there gross, I'm still afraid of the dark!!!

3. I have my own bedroom so does my brother but we have never ever slept in it cos I love to sleep with my parents - I love hugs.

What’s Next? 

I really really want to go to Exposure next year, so I’m working super hard to get better and get there that’s my goal!!!






Make sure you follow Sky on: 

Facebook: Stu Braun (my dad)

Instagram: awsmkids (my mom)

Youtube: stu4real　

As of 2015 Sky rides for our team "Girl is NOT a 4 Letter Word", so check out her Team Rider Page for current info, sponsors, contest results  and videos --->  HERE

Photo: Russ Hoover

Photo: Steve Gaffney

Photo: Robby Staley

Photo: Tavi Lono

Photo: Russ Hoover

We had heard about Kyra for a few years, the small blonde girl shredding the waves out front as if she was just hanging out in her own private playground having fun, & totally immune to those watching her in awe. Kyra is a true ripper, and with her consistent wins in the NSSA contests last season (and this season!) a lot more people are now knowing her name. She also skates and can usually be found carving up the alleys (barefoot)  when the  waves are small.  Keep your eye on this young shredder - she loves surfing Tavarua,  so maybe big wave surfing is in her future as well!

Who's Rad?   Kyra Williams

Age?     13

Home is?      Manhattan Beach, California

How long have you been surfing?    I tandem surfed with my dad when I was little, but I really got into surfing and padding into my own waves when I was 11.

What got you into surfing?     I've always watched my dad and brother surf since I was really little, but I really loved watching videos of Carissa Moore and John John Florence.

What do you enjoy most about surfing?     I love just being in the ocean and getting the rush of going fast down the line.

Do you enjoy competing in contests or is freeriding your thing?   I love both! Competing is a blast because it's so fun to test your skills in a certain amount of time and free riding is super fun because it's a good way to practice your skills and just relax.

Do you: shortboard? Longboard? SUP?    I short board mostly, but I also love to longboard and SUP!

Girls that Surf that inspire YOU?    Girls that inspire me are Carissa Moore, Lakey Peterson, Courtney Conolouge, and Laura Enever.

Favorite place you have ever surfed?     My favorite place I've ever surfed is Cloudbreak!

Favorite Surf Movie?     I really love Lakey Peterson's Zero to One Hundred.

Any memorable contests?     My most memorable was at the South Side of Huntington Pier when it was firing.

Favorite trick or maneuver?      For sure barrels.

We know you skate too – tell us about that – what type of skateboarding are you into?     I love to skate bowls and just cruise around.

Sponsors:     Spyder Surf and Girl is Not a 4 Letter Word


Three Things You Don't Know About Me:

1. I love to play the guitar and ukulele.
2. I love skiing Aspen Mountain.
3. I've always wanted to work at a fashion magazine one day!

What’s Next? 

I have contests all winter in the NSSA gold coast and Southwest.   I'm headed to Tavarua for spring break!

Make sure you follow Kyra on:  instagram @kyrasurf

Photo: Connor Norwick

Photo: Juliet James

Photo: Kreg McMillan

Photo: Laura Mahoffy

Photo: Malorie French

Photo: Melissa McGoldrick

Photo: Scott Bastin

We still remember the day we met Emma for the first time. It was at an all girls skate session at The Berrics. A few girls started talking about the possibility of hitting up another spot later that had some vert. Emma and her friends were down with that plan and before we knew it they were inviting all of us to follow them to a spot they knew of in Hollywood. That's the kind of girl Emma is and we think that's pretty rad.  If you are at Exposure Skate Contest this Saturday, make sure you tell her "hi" and cheer her on - she will be the girl smiling & ripping.


Who's Rad?      Emma Storm

Age?     21

Home is?    Originally from Napa Valley but I have been living in Santa Barbara for about 3 and a half years.

Home Park or Skate spot is?      Skater’s Point in Santa Barbara

How Long Have You Been Skateboarding?      About a year and a half

What do you enjoy most about skateboarding?

Skateboarding saved me. When I started skating, I started to discover myself. I began to learn that I was capable of so many things that I never thought I could do. I would always watch these people and say, “Man, I wish I could do that.” Now, I am doing it. My favorite thing about skateboarding is that it pushes me to try new things and I challenge myself to get out of my comfort zone. Even falling, I like because it reminds me that sometimes, you have to fall in life if you ever want to get anywhere. I am so grateful for all of the amazing people and experiences that skateboarding has brought into my life; I am one lucky lady.

Favorite music to skate to? 

 Black Sabbath, Black Flag, Beastie Boys, Led Zeppelin, Old School Funk, Sublime, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Misfits, Dead Kennedys

Girls Who Skate that inspire YOU:

Julz Lynn, Lizzie Armanto, Allysha Bergado, Arianna Carmona, Sarah Thompson, Gaby Ponce, Mimi Knoop, Cassie Oseguera, Melissa Sullivan, Amy Treadway

Favorite place you've ever skated?      The Mike Fox skate park in Santa Cruz

Favorite Trick or maneuver?     Bean Plants, feebles, backside airs and grinding pool coping is the best feeling.

Sponsors:      BrokinBonz Clothing


Three Things You Don't Know About Me:

1. I’m a vegetarian
2. I have a 19-pound cat who is on a diet; his name is Winston.
3. I’m a singer in a jam band

What’s Next? 

I will be competing at EXPOSURE on November 8th, 2014. I’m nervous but really excited just to be a part of such a wonderful event, and to meet so many new and amazing people. The tricks that I’m currently working on are bonelesses, no comply, kickflips and pop shove-its.


Make sure you follow Emma on:   Instagram at @emmstorm and also on her
YouTube page for music and skate edit updates at: https://www.youtube.com/user/Emmalemmalove

Photo: David Turko

Photo: Kenneth Carver

Photo: Chris Beeman

Photo Chris Beeman

It looks like Florida is raising some pretty rad little female surfers lately. We heard about mini shredder Ava McGowan from GN4LW team rider Zoe Benedetto - turns out they are best friends, surf together and push each other to be the best they can be. Ava has been surfing for 4 of her young nine years and loves to compete & does a bit of surfer girl style modeling when she's not in the water. We think we will be seeing a lot more on this young ripper in the years to come!  Read on to see who she looks up to in both surf & skate and what's next for Ava!


Who's Rad?       Ava McGowan

Age?    9

Home is?     Deerfield Beach, Florida

How long have you been surfing?     I've been surfing for 4 years

How long have you been skateboarding?   I've been skateboarding for 2 years now

What got you into these 2 sports?

Well my brother was competing in ESA/Nssa and a Grom surf series here on the East Coast and I just one day decided I wanted to do it too, it looked fun, and I wanted to be a part of what was happening, mostly I really wanted the trophies, lol Now I really want to just do well, and keep having fun!

Skateboarding is something I started doing to help me with my surfing! It is also a great way to surf when the waves are flat!!!

What do you enjoy most about both surfing and skateboarding?

I really love the way both make me feel! They are progressive sports/activities that make you want to keep trying to do something new, and when you get something new down it is so exciting! For surfing, each wave is a new opportunity, it is different from the last! Plus I get to surf and skate with awesome people!

Do you enjoy competing in contests or do you prefer free riding?

I love competing in Surfing, It makes me a better surfer, I learn something new each time! I have only competed in one Skateboarding Contest and it was a bowl contest and I actually won, that was crazy, I didn't think I would, but I am not really looking to do that right now!!!

Girls Who Skate that inspire YOU?     Alana Smith

Girls who Surf that inspire YOU?

Lakey Peterson, Carissa Moore, and Tia Blanco, she is a goofy footer and I love to watch her surf and learn!

Favorite place you've ever skated?     Ramp 48 and NSB Skatepark

Favorite place you have ever surfed?

I love Hermosa in Costa Rica and of coarse Puerto Rico there is this place called Bridges and I had the best couple of days surfing there with my dad and brother!

Favorite Trick or Maneuver - skateboarding?

Tail slide, but most of all I am a bowl skater, because I feel like I am surfing!

Favorite Trick or Maneuver - surfing?

I love to do a roundhouse cutback

Sponsors:   Roxy flow, Dakine flow, Bird Surfboards, Island water sports in Deerfield Beach and Billy Lush Brand






Three Things You Don't Know About Me:

1. I'll put Terryaki sauce on just about anything
2. I always sing super loud in the shower
3. I'm addicted to Coca Cola Slurpee's from 7 eleven

What's Next?

Well the new season has started, and I'm surfing in Nssa and Esa and am just trying to surf as much as I can, learn as much as I can and have fun! I am only 9, so I have a lot of time to compete! I do however want to be consistent, and make it through my heats and have good results! Like I said, I love competing, so I am very competitive!!

Follow Ava on:  Facebook and Instagram

Photo: Olga Aguilar

Photo: Olga Aguilar

Photo: Hector Martinez

Photo: Jessica Basset

Photo: Mashall Reid

Photo: Olga Aguilar

We saw this rad black & white pic on Juice Magazine's site of a girl totally shredding like she was on fire. Turns out it was Sally. She skates hardcore, going full "balls to the wall" on each run. Gotta love that commitment. Check out the pics above to see what we mean. Looking forward to her next trip to Butlers pool and seeing her shred it in person. Now that will be EPIC.


Who's Rad?      Sally Roepke

Age:      29

Home is?      Seattle, WA.

How Long Have You Been Skateboarding?     14 years

What do you enjoy the most about skateboarding?

Because skateboarding takes so much focus it requires one to act one-mindfully. That kind of pure, in-the-moment participation is emotionally, mentally and spiritually beneficial like nothing else in my life. Skating teaches one how to deal with and accept pain and frustration, push through fear, and live in the present moment.

I can’t leave out the community around skateboarding. I have it to thank for the majority of my friendships right now and it’s truly amazing. I can travel anywhere and connect with skateboarders easily. It’s a rare place where multigenerational friendships are common, which is incredible.

Girls Who Skate that inspire YOU:

The women I skate with locally are my biggest inspiration because we push each other during our sessions. There’s a solid women’s skateboarding community in the Northwest, really too many to name, but some of my best skate pals are Jessica, Anna May, Gretchen, Rachelle, Colette and Chrissie.

Julz Lynn is really inspiring because she’s such a savage pool skater. She embodies the style that I’ve always strove for.

Some other professional skateboarders I admire are Amelia Brodka and Kristin Ebeling, both of whom in addition to being sick skaters do a lot for women’s skateboarding with their projects. Brodka with her Underexposed documentary and associated contest and Ebeling with her work with the non-profit Skate Like A Girl organization and Wheels of Fortune women’s contest.

I also admire Peggy Oki for being an OG skater on the Zephyr team, pioneering surf style in skateboarding and her current anti-whaling activism.

Favorite place you’ve ever skated?

There are a lot of great spots I’ve had the privilege to skate; Orcas Island, Chanel Street, Butler’s Pool and Marginal Way are my favorites.

Favorite Trick of maneuver?      Frontside carvegrind on pool coping.

Sponsors:    Tasty Skateboards,  Blackmarket Skateshop  

Three Things You Don’t Know About Me

1. A Harry Potter soap-flavored jellybean was one of the best things I’ve ever eaten.

2. I work as an infectious disease researcher at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle.

3. I’ve played guitar since I was 12 and played in Jazz ensemble in middle and high school. Now I just play rock music with my band Sycorax.

What’s Next?

I’m an evening and weekend skateboarder in a city where it rains a lot so my first priority is to just skate whenever I can. Whenever I have a vacation I plan it around where I can skate. I’m hoping to make it to the East coast and Skatetopia next summer to celebrate turning 30. I like contests because they give me a goal to work towards in my own progression, but I’ll probably always be a casual contest entrant at most. I’m not a professional skateboarder--I’m a recreational skateboarder!

My other life goals include finishing my research on memory T cells for my first author paper and to record an album with my band.

Follow Sally at:    Instagram  @sallydressing

Photo: Olivia Bush

Photo: Olivia Bush

Photo: Olivia Bush

Photo: @Dickey555 on instagram

Photo: Adam Kure

We have known about Gaby forever - but seriously who doesn't? But we had never had the pleasure of meeting her until this year at the Vans US Open. We noticed that in person she's one of the quiet ones, the type you have to watch out for if you are competing against them, because she's stealth and seriously rad. The kind of skater that silently drops in then leaves you with your mouth dropping wide open as she pulls back to back tricks one after another. There is a lot of power & determination under that calm, cool exterior. Glad we got a chance to do this interview and let Gaby tell you what it's really like to do all she does.  xx


Who's Rad?      Gaby Ponce

Age?      22

Home is?         El Cajon, CA

How long have you been Skating?      10yrs

What got you into skateboarding?     A TV show called Rocket Power

What is your favorite terrain to skate?      Vert ramps of course!

You have competed in numerous X-Games and Dew Tours – can you tell us how many and how many medals?

3 XGames with 2 medals  &  2 Dew Tours with 2 medals

I know you took 3 years off from competing – can you tell us a little about what made you decide to step back from comps?

I went to college and I didn't have much time to skate as I put my studies as my #1 priority.

Do you feel that now that you are back to competing, the time off gave you added motivation?

Taking time off created a renewed passion for my skating. It's hard for me to put into words how much fun I am having!

You are always so calm at contests – what’s your secret for staying in the moment and not letting nerves get the best of you?

HAHA! Despite my quiet personality I am actually a nervous wreck! I try and treat any contest as a normal practice session though.

What advice can you give to girls who may be starting out skateboarding and also those who are competing at the amateur level?

Fear is just an illusion. You are the one who created it. If you want to land a new trick you got to want it!

Between traveling for contests, working, and training – what is your favorite way to eat to keep your body healthy for skating?

Fruits, veggies, grains, and a bit of meat here and there.

What are your plans for competing in the upcoming year – any contests you are looking forward to?

Exposure because it has a vert contest... They know whats up!

Favorite place you've ever skated?      Everywhere in SoCal

Favorite Trick or manuver?      Boardslide to fakie

Sponsors:

Moonshine Skateboards, Sun Diego Boardshops, KIND Snacks, Bones Wheels, Triple 8 helmets, 187 Killer Pads

Any other plans/things you are working towards in your pro career?

Right now Moonshine Skateboards and I are working on a graphic for my very first pro model.

Working on the industry side later on is definitely a goal for me.

Three things you don't know about me... 

1. Some dude cut me off when I was driving so I threw a bag of trail mix at his car

2. When I was in college I was 40lbs heavier

3. I never wear make-up


What’s Next?
Rocky Mountain Rampage vert competition Aug23
Exposure vert competition Nov 8
Moonshine Skate Video part


Make sure you follow Gaby on: Instagram @gabyskates ,   Twitter @gabyskates Facebook.com/gabyponcefanpage