Skate Blog Intern Blog

BambooSK8 was proud to support the Standup for Skateparks program helping to fund skateparks in low income areas, as well as areas where cities don’t have the budget to promote skateboarding.  This was our 3rd year supporting Tony Hawk.  Not only did we provide the $350 donation (only 800 tickets are offered) but we gave 4 bamboo skateboards to be auctioned off for the charity at both the Beverly Hills event and the Las Vegas event at the Wynn Hotel.  We were very proud to see our decks get auctioned for hundreds of dollars!!!  This event in Beverly Hills was on October 17th at Billionaire Ron Burkles Green Acres Estate.  Ron actually lets them put in a half pipe and tear up his finely manicured lawn all in the name of charity.  Numerous celebrities and pro skaters were on hand – despite the pouring drizzly rain, everyone still had a blast.  Highlight for me was seeing Janes Addiction who always put on a stellar show.  Perry was hilarious as he told the kids in the audience, “You don’t want to grow up like us.  You want to be like Tony Hawk.  We’re just his crazy friends.  I’m the crazy uncle.”   The crowd just laughed!  Then Perry say’s, “I’m sorry for the profanity kids.   This next song is about “whores”.”  ahah!   Dave Navarro was with his gorgeous new 18 year old girlfriend and while the chemistry of the band isn’t cohesive, Dave still smiled and shredded some serious notes out of his Paul Reed Smith guitar.  For those of you that are too young, Perry Farrell of Janes Addiction was the brains behind the “Lollapalooza” festival back in 1991.  Perry, who I’ve seen many times over the years at various events was kind enough to autograph the set list for me.  Other major celebrities included soccer star David Beckham, who had all the girls going goo goo ga ga.  Mark Wahlber was another highlight to see as I’m a big fan of his acting.  He was like, “Make it fast kid.” when I asked for a photo.  It always sucks to bother these people when they are with their kids and family, but they all handle the fame well, so long as one is respectful.  Due to the rain, the 1/2 pipe wasn’t ridden for very long nor were the tricks really stretched but for sure Tony Hawk was whipping out some Mctwists and doing triple aerials with Matt Hoffman on his freestyle bike.  Matt hasn’t ridden in a few years due to a severe injury after a car accident.  It was awesome to see him riding again, as I remember riding near him in Grand Blanc, Michigan for the 2 Hip King of Vert back in 89 when we were 15.  Damn, where does the time go?  Anyhow, hope you enjoy the photos!  Again, we are very honored to contribute to the Standup for Skateparks charity!