Who are some of the notable adaptive skateboarders?
Skateboarding, as a sport and art form, presents some unique challenges for athletes who have physical disabilities or mobility limitations. But for some skateboarders, overcoming these obstacles is part of the excitement and satisfaction of the sport. Here are some of the most inspiring and notable adaptive skateboarders who have achieved feats that many able-bodied skaters could only dream of.
First on the list is Aaron Fotheringham, better known as “Wheelz”. Born with spina bifida, Fotheringham uses a custom-made wheelchair to perform daring skateboard tricks. He has landed the first ever double backflip in a wheelchair, and has become a role model for disabled skaters around the world.
Another adaptive skateboarder who has gained international recognition is Vinicios Sardi, a Brazilian athlete who lost his leg in a motorcycle accident. Sardi uses a prosthetic limb to ride his skateboard, and has wowed crowds with his precision and daring moves. He has competed in numerous international competitions and has won several medals, including a gold at the 2019 Asia-Pacific Adapted Skateboard Championship.
Beau Rich is another adaptive skateboarder who has made a name for himself in the sport. Born with osteogenesis imperfecta, a genetic disorder that causes brittle bones, Rich has been confined to a wheelchair since he was a young child. However, he has never let his disability hold him back. Rich uses a unique, custom-made skateboard that allows him to perform tricks and stunts that would be impossible on a standard board.
The list goes on, with skaters like Dan Mancina, who is visually impaired but still dials in precise tricks and grinds, and Og De Souza, who has Cerebral Palsy and is known for his fluid style and technical skills.
All of these adaptive skateboarders have faced challenges that most of us could not fathom, but they’ve found creative ways to overcome them and continue pursuing their passion. Their skill, dedication, and courage serve as an inspiration to skateboarders and non-skateboarders alike, reminding us that anything is possible with enough perseverance and determination.
