Years After Putting Skateboarding on Olympic Map, Tony Hawk Pens a Heart-Felt Note to His First Coach

The world of skateboarding has experienced an awe-inspiring transformation over the years. At the heart of this transformation stands the iconic Tony Hawk. Recently, Hawk took to Instagram to honor a significant event – his late brother, surfing champion, Steve Hawk’s birthday.

Through a poignant post, he not only celebrated his brother’s influence on his skateboarding journey but also delved into the emotions that underlie their relationship. Beyond the spotlight of skateboarding & the rush of nailing daring stunts, this post uncovers the powerful connections that shape a skateboarder’s odyssey.

A brother’s tribute and the roots of skateboarding

A few days ago, Hawk took to Instagram and shared an emotional and nostalgic picture of his brother surfing with waves. The post acts as a heartfelt tribute to his late brother Steve Hawk. He has played a pivotal role in introducing legend Tony Hawk to surfing, Zappa, Vonnegut, National Lampoon & skateboarding. Through his words, Tony acknowledges Steve not just as a sibling but as a coach and guide.

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The phrase, “Happy Birthday to my brother Steve, who taught me how to skate – and a bunch of other cool/gross stuff,” sheds light on a multifaceted bond that extends beyond the ramps and rails. Tony Hawk’s journey was molded by Steve’s unwavering support & inspiration. As he looks back on his initiation into the world of skating.

Concurrently, Steve’s sentiments, from a past interview, reveal the modest beginnings of a skateboarding luminary. It was the simple gift of a worn skateboard that ignited a spark within Tony, setting in motion a trajectory.

Tony Hawk and surfing pro words

Two decades ago, Tony Hawk etched his name in skateboarding history by mastering the elusive “900” trick. The year was 1999, and the Summer X-Games bore witness to Tony’s monumental feat. This achievement was the result of a relentless pursuit that spanned years, marked by falls and unwavering determination.

When the pivotal moment finally arrived, the world watched in awe as Tony executed the gravity-defying two-and-a-half revolution aerial spin with unmatched finesse. What lends this accomplishment added significance is the context in which it unfolded. To this Steve said, “(The 900) was a really rare moment where the world got to see what actually happens on a day-to-day basis with skateboarders. Because the clock had run out. That contest was over and no one else was skating … ESPN, to their undying credit, decided to keep the cameras rolling”. The “900” not only catapulted Tony Hawk into mainstream recognition but also triggered a chain reaction that forever altered skateboarding’s trajectory.

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