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Sidewalk surfers sweep the board. Skateboarding gained new respectability
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Sidewalk surfers sweep the board. Skateboarding gained new respectability
Sidewalk surfers sweep the board.
Skateboarding gained new respectability with official, council-backed championships at Leamington yesterday. The event at the Sydenham Sports Centre attracted about 60 local youngsters, who pitted their skils in speed, slalom and freestyle events. It was dominated by members of the Sidewalk Surf Team, sponsored by Leamingtons only skateboard shop, who complained later of a lack of competition in the town. " We d like to have competitions but theres just no-one as good as us." explained 15-year-old Anthony O Rafferty. " There are a couple of other teams but they can t do handstands and elbow stands like us." Anthony Freeman, also 15, took first place in the speed section on a borrowed board worth 60. Anthony, a Dormer Hight School pupil who has been skateboarding for eight months, said that it was as important to have a quality skateboard as it was to become a skilled skateboarder.
In this photograph Anthony Freeman celebrates his victory with team mates.
4th January 1978
Coventry Telegraph Archive
Mirrorpix
Leamaington
England
PM*561807
Media ID 21354614
© Mirrorpix
Contest Hairstyles Leamington Spa
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this photo print, taken on the 4th of January 1978 by Mirrorpix, we witness a moment that symbolizes the rise of skateboarding as a respected sport. The image captures the victorious celebration of Anthony Freeman and his teammates from the Sidewalk Surf Team after dominating the official council-backed championships held at Leamington's Sydenham Sports Centre. Skateboarding had gained newfound respectability through these championships, drawing in approximately 60 local youngsters who showcased their skills in speed, slalom, and freestyle events. However, it was evident that the Sidewalk Surf Team stood out amongst their competitors. As sponsored athletes by Leamington's sole skateboard shop, they expressed disappointment over the lack of competition within their town. Fifteen-year-old Anthony O'Rafferty explained how they longed for more challenging competitions: "We'd like to have competitions but there's just no one as good as us" he said confidently. "There are a couple of other teams but they can't do handstands and elbow stands like us". The photograph freezes an exhilarating moment where Anthony Freeman basks in his victory alongside his fellow team members. It serves as a testament to both skill and camaraderie within this tight-knit group. Notably, Anthony highlights that having a quality skateboard is just as important as honing one's skills—a reminder that success requires dedication both on and off the board. This Memory Lane Print encapsulates an era when skateboarding began its ascent into mainstream recognition while showcasing youthful talent and passion for this thrilling sport.
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