Sponsors: Birdhouse, Nixon, Quiksilver, Independent, Lakai Tony Hawk, in full Anthony Frank Hawk, (born May 12, 1968, San Diego, California, U.S.), American professional skateboarder who—through his technical innovations, successful equipment and apparel companies, and tireless promotional work—helped the sport of skateboarding enter the mainstream at the end of the 20th century. Hawk, who even as a child had little patience for failure, began skateboarding at age 9. He started entering competitions at age 11 and made an instant impression with his creativity and daring. His parents were supportive of his new hobby, and they later organized the California Amateur Skateboard League and the National Skateboard Association to help provide legitimacy to the sport. Hawk was 14 when he signed with the Powell Peralta professional team and starred in the famous Bones Brigade videos. Though Hawk was an accomplished street skater, his reputation rested on his skills as a “vert” (vertical) skater. During the 1980s and ’90s, he dominated skateboarding competitions. He won 73 titles and was named the top vert skater every year from 1984 to 1996. He also invented dozens of moves, including the ollie-to-Indy, the gymnast plant, the frontside 540-rodeo flip, and the Saran wrap. In one of skateboarding’s defining moments, Hawk executed a 900 twist (2 1/2 turns) at the 1999 X Games, a feat that had previously never been performed.
