Charmed, I'm sure.

Interview with . . . Christian Hosoi!

2011-02-12T21:03:00.000-08:00

In keeping with my "charmed life" as it were, I received an email in December from my friends at Lifelounge Magazine out of Australia asking me if I could get an interview with skateboarding legend Christian Hosoi. My initial reaction was fear - that even if I could get the interview, that I couldn't write a story worthy of his mystique. After a couple of days of soul searching I decided I had to at least try and get an interview. In just a few short days I had not only set up the interview, but fate had actually brought Christian to my city of Richmond California (those of you familiar with Richmond understand just how bizarre and unlikely this is.) to skate a warehouse vert ramp! Long story short, I did Interview Christian "Christ" Hosoi and the story was published by LifeLounge Magazine (so exciting and flattering!).

Below are some shots I took of Christian in Richmond and during the interview in Huntington Beach - I actually got to session with Christian Hosoi . . . CRAZY!

The Lifelounge "Gossip" Edition with my story "Christ is alive . . . and living in Huntington Beach" can be purchased at Lifelounge .com

Thanks to Jamie Driver, Aaron Morgan and special thanks to Christian Hosoi for the opportunity to share his story and thoughts.

THE END ALL BE ALL . . .

2010-04-15T17:46:00.000-07:00

This is our beautiful daughter, Juniper Opal. She was born on January 29th at 5:39am.

I realize that I have never truly known utter bliss until now - seeing Chelsa with our baby and the realization that she is our's and we are her's for all times . . . I'm done for in the most heartfelt way. UTTER BLISS.

Wallenberg "Back to the Berg" 2009

2009-06-01T16:04:00.000-07:00

As life sometimes does, time has been folding in on itself keeping me from the mentally therapeutic aspects of my life (such as this blog) . . . case in point Back to the Berg post I started two days after it happended, is now the better part of a year late! Nonetheless, I have finished it and as I am pretty happy with some of the action (and the amount of friends) I documented . . . here it is. Enjoy!

On Saturday May 30th 2009, Thrasher, Zero, Quiksilver and DVS threw what is most likely the last hurrah for the Historical skateboarding landmark known as "the Wallenberg four". I cannot say just how many people showed up for this event, but it was staggering . . . and I'll let the pictures speak for themselves. Hopefully, if you weren't able to be in SF for this skateboard blowout, you got to see it on the live feeds that I understand were going during the event. If you didn't have at least that luck, here is what I was able to document for posterity (and insanity's) sake. Enjoy!

Pre Jam predictions on the landing strip.

With Chris Cole out front, the Chosen few ponder the possibilities.

Marissa Del Santo gave impressive and valiant efforts . . . I've seen people ride away as far as she did in a game of S.K.A.T.E. and count it - really cool. Girls in skateboarding . . . are here!
Jordan Hoffart . . . incredible and under rated Canadian. Frontside varial heelflip
Andrew Pott - perfect hardflip

Nick Merlino - Switch Heelflip
Chris Cole, MONSTER! Switch frontside flip.
Whoever this warrior is, he tried nollie 360s like 20 times and got close on about half.
Lizard King. I now understand why he is notable - he is amazing, creative and seemingly fearless. Backside 180 one foot in thong underwear (just kidding - shoe string belt).

Man of the day (month, year and decade) Chris Cole, me and some kid trying to explode me with his mind. By the end of the session Cole had bagged it with a backside 360 ollie (2nd try), and a switch frontside flip . . . FU$&!!
(WALLENBERG PART 2) Peeps in the house!
Darin Howard looks down into the sea of skaters
My best friend and skate destroyer Bart Fasano-Jones and fellow Marinite, James Norton
DLX crew.
The Hagar brothers . . . . inner circle nomads.
A packed crowd including Elements key . . . elements.

Toad and Salazar chat it up.
Legendary smooth operator, Rick Howard
The Maker
My Ace and yours, Steve "Shrewgy" Ruge.
Tony Vitello

Sunshine and skating . . . Aala park! (Hawaii part 3)

2009-03-11T13:11:00.000-07:00

I finally fully understand why the Hawaiian Islands are such a tourist destination . . .
This being my first vacation to Hawaii, the rain and mild temperatures of the first few days sort of had me less than sold. However, for the last few days the sun has been out and the weather - hot! I can now agree it is a paradise!
Yesterday I skated the Aala Skate Park while Chels and Lynda hit China town for some shopping and culture. Chelsa agreed to take some pics after they returned and I have to say she has a knack for it . . .

Nollie 180 heelflip on the wave bank

This volcano was a fun!

Lynda hit the park as well (sort of)

Thomas Lee showed up after a bit and just ripped the park. My battery died or there would have been more of this guy - here he guides a clean noseblunt on the hubba

Hawaii part 2

2009-03-07T18:59:00.000-08:00

Despite an overcast sky and drizzle throughout much of our first few days, we have been making the most of our vacation. On Friday we traveled to the North Shore and checked out some surfing. The waves were only around six to seven feet, but that's pretty much still awesome. We pulle off at one point near Waimea Bay and were excited to find a giant sea turtle grazing off red and green algae growing on the rocks. Shortly after witnessing what we assumed would be the turtle highlight, we almost stepped on Missy - a protected giant sea turtle basking in the . . . well, gloom. It's amazing to see such a large creature in person . . . especially something that truly appears to be a bridge to prehistoric times.

Missy

Aloha from the North Shore!

Hawaiian Vacation!

2009-03-06T11:30:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Chelsa and I flew into Oahu to meet her Mom for ten days of rest, relaxation and fun after a long year of . . . well, mostly rest, relaxation and fun - but who needs an excuse!

Here is a view of Diamond Head as wel flew in . . . if you look really close, you can see Wilford Brimley shopping near Waikiki Beach (see him Bart and Iku)!

Lynda picked us up in a Burnt metallic orange Dodge Calibur (pretty cool for the cheapest choice). Here she is found responsibley switching lanes

Our Condo view is inviting. More adventure . . . after naptime.

After St. Valentines Day SKATE MASSACRE!

2009-01-13T22:01:00.000-08:00

. . . . Actually it hasn't happened yet. But my friends Joey and Shrewgy from Ace trucks are throwing a skate day jam at the Berkeley skate park and had me do a flyer for the event. The skate jam got rained out on both attempts, but it will happen in the near future and it will be fun as hell! Here's the gig . . .

My Dad inducted into the Michigan Soccer Hall of Fame . . .

2008-09-14T13:02:00.000-07:00

My father just celebrated his 66th Birthday. Coincidentally, he was insured a place in Michigan soccer history when he was added to the Michigan United Soccer League Hall of Fame - Congratulations POP!

Welcome to the Harold "kirk" Kirkwood Celebrity Roast . . . enjoy!

When I was about 7 years old, the coach of my soccer team quit . . . knowing nothing about soccer, my dad took over as the coach.
Thirty years later, his accomplishments in Michigan's soccer community can not easily be listed. Here are some highlights:

Over his long stint as a Michigan soccer ambassador, my dad helped create various leagues to cover an ever expanding athelete demographic (when he turned 40, he created an over 40 league - 50th Birthday - an over 50 league . . . you get the picture).
My father took courses and tests (in other states if he had to) to obtain referee and coaching licenses in order to contribute while he was injured and couldn't play OR if there were too many games on a given weekend to be aptly officiated.
He got involved with the NASL the MISL and was always some part of any big soccer project going down . . . even if it meant devising his own position and pitching it to whatever board of directors was in charge. After a point he was generally part of the board because it was obvious that the integrity and knowledge that he brought to the table was an asset.
"Kirk" has coached every level of team, organized tournaments, set up high level scrimmages, designed logos (including the current MUSL shield) and helped many players attain their ambitions to play for top college teams and beyond - He even created and hosted "The Soccer Circuit", a Television show on cable.

Harold Kirkwood currently holds the position of Vice President for the Michigan United Soccer League which is the second largest soccer league in the U.S.

My father has always "flown under the radar" as my girlfriend likes to say, but his due credit finally caught up with his furious pace to make soccer in Michigan something more . . . always something more - congratulations Dad!

Ho Chunk Sioux tribal elder, Steve Kirkwood's 95th BIRTHDAY!

2008-08-31T15:27:00.000-07:00

Upon my return from Hong Kong, I was informed that a monumental happening would soon be taking place. My great uncle Steve Kirkwood, the eldest member of the Ho Chunk Sioux tribe of which I am part, was celebrating his 95th Birthday.
Unknown relatives from all over the country were coming to this Historic Birthday/family gathering . . . I did not want to be left out. I booked my ticket to Detroit and drove with my family to the lush and expansive state of Wisconsin. It's funny how as you get older, time with your family goes from being taken for granted to something truly cherished (even with all of the well learned and not altogether positive dynamics). The drive was really fun - we are all coffee lovers, so the cup'o'joe stops were consistent . . . the van buzzed with caffeination and good conversation.
The Birthday gathering was a surprise party, which was a total success due in part to Steve's best friend Shorty keeping the secret so well. Uncle Steve was at a total loss for words and for about the first ten minutes and just stared around the room speechless noticing all of the familiar faces, which was quite moving.
My sister and brother in-law and their new baby boy Kaj, flew out from CA as well. We met a couple dozen relatives that I had never known before - it was wonderful and heart warming.
Here are some shots of the festivities:

The mastermind behind the big surprise/reunion, Steve's son Kent

Shorty escorts Steve into the banquet room.

SURPRISE!

. . . and the meet and greet begins . . .

Jeff and Mary with their kids (my cousins) Jonathan, Matt and Katie . . . and mother, Jean

. . . more friends and family!

Larry and Deborah

Billy and Patty

My dad, "Kirk" and "Chief's" son, Bill

My sister Laura and her husband Tej introduce baby Kaj to Steve

My mom, Pam and "Chief's" daughter, Maureen

Shannon and Ahren

Steve's Birthday "party"

This is a bonus picture from Wisconsin . . . It's my mom holding my new nephew Kaj (pronounced Kai). It was so beautiful I just had to add it.

It took a while to post this entry due to my trouble remembering all of the names of the great relatives that I met for the first time . . . "friends may come and go, but life begins and ends with family" - unknown

HAPPY BIRTHDAY STEVE KIRKWOOD!

Hong Kong: Bailey's tattoo . . . (HK part 6)

2008-08-17T08:40:00.000-07:00

Erik Bailey got a classic Galleon on his arm while we were in Hong Kong. Next to HKitstore was a rad tattoo parlor, Star Crossed Tatoo. Ross and Juju the proprietors are from the UK and have been posted up in HK for like seven years or something. They are great people and we hung out and had some brews one night . . . good times.
Anyways, Juju is a tatooing machine a basically works 24/7. It was obvious this was the place to be so Bailey got a new piece . . .

Andrew got a piece too. He flew back after Erik and I so I don't have it to show . . . if you go to the link for Star Crossed though, I'll bet you can peep it.
Cheers!

Farewell for now Hong Kong- back in CA! (HK part 5)

2008-08-16T07:12:00.000-07:00

It's kind of crazy that after two weeks in Hong Kong doing demos (that seemed like two months), you can just be sitting back in your own living room again.
With the exception of your memories, injuries and a room full of unpacked bags, one could argue that it never even happened . . .
Hong Kong was so amazing and so fulfilling - I am happy and totally sad to be home.
A very special thanks goes out to my new and toally awesome friend Kit at HKIT store. Kit and I got in contact about this trip just under one month before we were supposed to be doing shows, some how the fates let it be . . .

come to California soon Kit! I miss you already homeboy.

On our last demo day, some of the friends we'd made brought us some really thoughtful gifts and it was such a nice feeling to have been appreciated as much as we appreciated all of the support. Thanks for being super fans . . . we are totally flattered.

Joey Law's supercool video (THANKS!)

Creamy and Karen made me this sweet diorama with little skater figures in it and me as Batman on a skateboard (because I wore a t-shirt of Batman in a wheelchair). They also made picture books for each of us - far too kind ladies, thanks!

Nandita came to a few shows and brought family too. She was always really spirited and was a big supporter - THANKS SO MUCH!

O.K. that's about it for HK . . . I hope everyone had a good time checking out the scene!
Here are just a last couple of shots for fun -

Andrew, Erik and I doing a criss-cross dealy during the show

Some crazy 720 barrel roll thing by Bailey (the kid is nutty!)

These security guards had no love for us in the beginning . . . but I think they almost liked us in the end.

It was sad to leave Hong Kong and have such an exhilerating adventure come to an end. The one saving grace is my faith that there is always some crazy, new, unforseen experience right around the bend - which is why I remain charmed . . . I'm sure.

. . . and now a word from our Sponsors

2008-08-13T01:59:00.000-07:00

Hong Kong's locals for ACE TRUCKS!
Do yourself a favor and ride . . . responsively!

I get by with a little help from my friends . . . (HK part 4)

2008-08-12T23:14:00.000-07:00

This one goes out to the good friends back home that know how much I love life and skateboarding and have supported me for the last four, ten or thirty eight years. Thanks to my parents, my sisters, my wonderful Chelsa and to Jim at Real and DLX and Joey and Shrewgy at Ace trucks. I can't convey the deep gratitude that I have for this charmed life. Cheers to my WHOLE family!
Here are some pictures of the crowds - they love that I pass out stickers for the kids after the demos . . . thanks to Ace and DLX for that as well - Life is good, good, good.

Here are more pictures of us exploiting photo ops throughout HK . . .

8 demos left in Hong Kong! (HK part 3)

2008-08-12T00:59:00.000-07:00

WOW! It's crazy to think that Andrew, Erik and I have knocked out 35 demos in the past twelve days. It's been quite an experience. You just cannot know all of the intensity both high and low that happens with this kind of a gig until you experience it first hand. For myself, it is something that I have always wanted to test myself with - HAVING to skateboard multiple times in a day as a job for an audience. As it winds down I can honestly say that I am really glad that I did it even though I maybe wouldn't take the opportunity again (I may actually be too old for this hahaha).
Someone was nice enough to create a little movie and put it on Youtube (thanks!). Andrew just found this on our break. It's got some funny randomness peep our antics -

I will throw some more videos up if we find them. Erik is not featured in this movie which is totally a shame because he really can do just about whatever he wants on the course. Stay tuned for that!
Here are some random demo photos. They are definately artsy due to the blurr factor, but it's what we got . . .

As you can probably see, we have a pretty good time. Thanks for the support friends family and passerbys alike! Bye for now!

Time out from HK for baby celebration . . .

2008-08-08T22:52:00.000-07:00

I would just like to announce that since December, I have become an uncle TWICE OVER! Yes both of my incredible sisters have had their first children. It is one of the most incredible things you can know the pleasure of - to see your siblings become parents and, well, just totally trip out on it. Congratulations to Andrea and Laura and our extended family!

The moms and my Aunt Jacquie hanging out.

Kaj Singh

Leona Finn
It is beyond description the way it feels to have a person new to the world look up at you and smile. What a miracle.

This is another new baby to the family . . . It's Juliana, my cousin Lea and her husband Jeffs first born. Congratulations!

Bonus baby!

This is our neighbor's baby Jadyn. She was due on the same day as my older sister's baby . . . and they both came two weeks late on the same day! Here they are meeting for the first time.

Thanks for stopping in . . . YAY BABIES!

Our . . . fans?(HK part 2)

2008-08-08T01:04:00.000-07:00

Our demos are at the half way point now, but it is strange how long it seems like we've been here. With three demos a day we definately get our quota of emotions and excitement in. We get around two to four hundred people per show and we have started to notice familiar faces- wethat we have . . . fans! So cool.

Here are some early morning shots of the park that we get to fly around on. Below are some of our recurring show goers (our "fans" if you will).

Travis and Jess (local shredders)

Creamy and Karen are funny . . . they bring us pictures of ourselves from the day before to sign and then take more. I think they are hoping we start a boy band so they can sell the photos on Ebay . . . you never know ladies.

Bailey and Andrew dubbed her the "cougar" . . . what does that mean?

This is Wylei, she is an up and coming Pop star and actress in Hong Kong and we did a press shoot with her for . . . Umm, something. After meeting Wylei, found her on the cover of the latest issue of a popular HK magazine.

Joey and Law

This is Cez. Her friend Gigi couldn't make it to this show, but I wanted to mention her too because they are good people. Thanks for the support!

I am in the fan club of a couple of Hong Kong locals myself . . .

This is Sam of Sam's Tailor. He has made suits for many of the Presidents of the U.S. including Nixon, Clinton and both Bushes. He has also created suits for The Black Eyed Peas, Bowie, James Brown and many, many others. Oh, did I mention he has a suit in production for . . . ME, STOKED!!

I'll have to get back to you on the name of my friend the HK Waffleman. One thing I can say is that if you see his stand, I recommend the coconut and poppyseed waffle ($HK10).

Hong Kong is a thing to behold. Our last few days were spent in some typhoon conditions which actually sort of added to the mystique. More soon.
P.S. Miss you Chelsa XoxoxoXOXOXooO!

Mallrats in Hong Kong

2008-08-04T21:20:00.000-07:00

This is the view of Victoria Harbor from our hotel room. The boat in the foreground is the Duk Ling, a restored fishing junk that gives free one hour sails of the harbor to visitors.

The first couple of mornings I was waking up promptly at 5:30 am. I walked to the ferry dock one morning and saw this tug floating- I loved the seemingly monochromatic colors of the scene.

This is Kit. He was the one who worked through the details of our trip with us and is our goto guy . . . and now good friend. He owns a sweet skateshop called Kitshop and whenever we are hanging out he literally gets a phonecall on one of his two cells like every 70 seconds or so. Kit rocks.

In the subway there are huge billboards for our event XGAMES experience with really funny depictions of a skater, BMXer (who is actually a mountain biker) and a blader from 1992 it's radical. According to the course posters, I am an "Icon" in the skateboard community . . . who knew!?

This is the demo team (minus our MC, "CK" who you'll see shortly). Hong Kong at night is really fun - tons of people, lots of shopping and food and neon signs, quite an adventure we're on!

These our are homies who do a trial bikes demo on the other side of a partition from us . . . those bikes are crazy and have no seats . . . more of that later.

This was our meal at a famous seafood restaraunt. In the front are tanks with a crazy variety of sea creatures including mantis fish and lots of things I didn't recognise . . .

Here we see CK enjoying a friend of the lobster that I am holding above smothered in cheese sauce.

Much much more to come . . . stay tuned!! Thanks for the interest!

Super Girl skate Jam at Huntington Beach!

2008-08-02T18:00:00.000-07:00

On July 26th and 27th, Huntington Beach was quite the event scene.
The Soul Bowl contest was as thrilling as ever. Don Bostick and the WCS crew were on hand to make sure the right warriors walked away with some well earned skrilla.
There was also some epic flippery and torquery high over the beach by the madmen of moto.
The U.S. open was going down there as well . . .

I was fortunate enough to attend the multi-event in an official capacity as one of the judges for the ASA at the S3 SuperGirl Skate Jam. I have watched some of these skaters progressing for years and it is totally inspiring to see the passion. The girls events are interesting because there seems to be no filter for ability level. There are some real rippers and some beginners and skaters in between, but ultimatley it is the best way to get this cross section of the skateboarding world in one place and that's pretty awesome.
I was ab;le to get on the course and shoot some pics as well as document some of the other happenings of the weekend. Enjoy!

Our main man Jason Hines!

Eliana Sosco- ollie . . . more HERE

Amy Caron owns the nollie heel . . . to fakie

Sophie Poppe nollie on the bank

Vanessa maybe being asked what it takes to rip . . . or maybe not. Either way it's a great contrast between these two - btw, Vanessa rips but I didn't get photos (sorry)

Lauren Perkins frontside slide

Put any skater in place of Leticia Bufoni in this pic and you'd still be thinking this is dope

ASA's judging crew

Brook Durgin with a nice ollie off the platform

Caron, backside disaster

Evellen Bouilliart- I saw her do a front blunt down the opposing rail (straight ballsy). Here is more from the rail technician of the day - backsmith!

Lorena Lima - this is the only shot I got of New Jerseys pride, but she has dumb tight skills kid! Check some more of her HERE

Evellen crossing the pyramid via kickflip

I missed photo opportunities with Rachel Reinhard, but THIS LINK will leave no doubt of her abilities
After our event we were close enough to the Soul Bowl contest to witness the heroic antics. Here are some teasers . . .

Don Bostick and the WCS crew overseeing things

Omar and Sandro showing some mutual admiration

This craziness is a good representation of what starts happening right away . . . and doesn't stop till it's over

Sandro with a sweet Christ air in the corner

We also dropped over to the MOTO freakshow. If you are afraid of heights, you will truly appreciate this!

Pretty much nothing can be said that the pictures don't scream out for themselves.

I hope this little "how I spent my weekend" was enjoyable, I am putting this entry up from the City Plaza Mall in Hong Kong where I am doing skateboarding demos for two weeks with my friends Erik Bailey and Andy Alvrez (yet another to do" checked off my bucket list) . . . bye for now!

Hello . . . Dubai! (part 2 the Lord of the Streets contest)

2008-07-22T22:00:00.000-07:00

Redbull Dubai's "Lord Of The Streets" jam was definately good times. The multi-faceted counterculture event featured Skateboarding, BMX, blading, B-Boys and graffiti artists.
It was thrilling to have the opportunity to be part of this event halfway around the globe.
I am fortunate to have great friends in industry, namely Jim at DLX, Chris, Craig and Lucian at High Grade and Joey and Shrewgy at Ace- who hooked me up with a grip of product to get out to Dubai's shredders. Many thanks!
Here is just some of the goings on at LORD OF THE STREETS:

Maysam and Brad use telepathy to discuss ASA and skate domination of the Middle East

Little shredders wait for there turn . . .

to leave the course in style

Scenesters peep the scene near the graffiti wall

The crowd begins to gather

I was the skatejam Mic Controller

an unexpected hurrican in Dubai

snacks served on a bed of freshly shredded Krooked deck

Even Collisson is a local ripper. Here he is demonstrating a proper frontside nosegrind

Colm is one of those lucky kids who's natural good style is matched by his talent . . . Maysam gets the footy as Colm pilots a stylee kickflip over the loading doc

Evan with a boned backside 180 (Mitchell photo)

. . . More to come on the Dubai trip, stay tuned for installment
3!

Hello . . Dubai! (part1 the overview)

2008-06-04T22:03:00.000-07:00

I recently returned from an amazing trip half way around the globe to the surreal Middle Eastern oasis of Dubai.
My friend Chris Mitchell is good at conjuring amazing opportunities and hired me on for his most recent one, the Redbull Dubai "Lord of the Streets" contest - thank you sir!
For those of you unfamiliar with Dubai, one of seven United Arab Emirates, Google Dubai or better yet Youtube it . . . the place is insane!
Normally, my trip would have consisted of lots of skateboarding. However, due to a recurring knee injury from early in 2007 (months out of commission! Arghh!), the trip ended up being the event plus lots of site seeing and desert dwelling . . . which was incredible.
Here are a gaggle of pictures documenting much of my trip.
Thanks to Chris for inviting me along and Roy Mrad for being the best host possible . . . I am looking forward to more great times, friends and Lebanese food next time!

Chris Mitchell toasting to continued good fortune

Our tour guide, liaison and wonderful host Roy Mrad

Erik Bailey was our blader pro . . . I am ashamed to admit that he is more up on just about any current skateboard fact than I am - "hey Kirkwood, did you see that crazy trick Mario Blah Blah did in the new Circus Freaks skate video!"

A view of the main strip from Roy's digs.

A shopkeeper sleeps in the afternoon heat

The Dubai mascot is everywhere . . . and he is happy!

A bustling river separating new Dubai from old

A small example of the incredibly creative architecture that dominates the downtown area

The tallest building in the world - the Burg Dubai, surrounded by dwarfed skyscrapers

Post production onset of the "Lawrence of Arabia" remake

The vastness of the Hatta desert - I walked it . . . psych

Check back in for part 2 - the event highlights.
Thanks for dropping by!

Wee-Man entry- blogosphere hibernation over!

2007-12-06T13:14:00.000-08:00

Hey friends family and welcomed passers by,
I apologise for my disappearance this past month. Your thousands of worried emails and calls were very moving, thank you (yeah right). At any rate, I will continue this blog with more of the (hopefully) entertaining events in my life as they occur. Probably some events of the mundane variety as well.
Back in spring of this year, just prior to my work in Thailand, I had the pleasure of working with Jason Acuna (better known as Wee Man of Jack Ass). I was asked to do an Interview with him for an Australian magazine called LifeLounge. As the crew of LL is based in Australia . . . I ended up shooting photos for the interview as well . . .

I brought these snails down to LA with me from Oakland for this shot . . . after I drove them home and put them back under the tree where I found them, they were celebraties!

Back at our pad, Chelsa and Jason celebrate their mutual victory at Pentago (our favorite game!).

Here is a link to the online version of the Jason Acuna Interview entitled, "Eighteen beers and nine coffees with Jason Acuna".
Many thanks to Jamie Driver, Karen Brown and the rest of the talented team at LifeLounge.com
I hope you like the story! Enjoy!

My homeboys in Iran . . .

2007-11-18T16:52:00.000-08:00

These are my friends, M.J. and Sasan from Tehran, Iran.
One of the things I cherish most about my adventures abroad is that there are people all over the globe who are simply trying to pursue the things that they love and just live in peace.
Wake up (the ONE) human race!
Anyways, skateboarders are (for the most part) a family that span the globe . . . and that is as wonderful as it sounds!

Halloween in Bangkok

2007-11-03T09:03:00.000-07:00

Many of my friends know that Halloween is one of my favorite Holidays.
I was more than slightly dismayed at the prospect of missing the night of witchery, so I asked my team if they would celebrate with me . . . They reluctantly agreed - to be dead for the night!

We had a blast taking over Kao San road . . . after hours of fun, Nui mistakenly erased all of the evidence . . . he was devastated. Probably it's best left to the imagination.

Sten . . . our secret weapon!!

2007-10-29T11:43:00.000-07:00

Sten is one of the the five members of the Thailand team. Due to restrictions in the number of atheletes who could compete in each discipline from the same country, Sten could not compete in the Olympic Asia Indoor Games this year.
What did happen, was that Sten was flown to Macau to compete in the pre-game contest for the atheletes who couldn't be at the AIG . . . Sten ended up skating against guys who actually DID skate in the AIG (how this was legal I don't know, but it happened). No matter . . . STEN GOT THE GOLD!!
This was the second contest in a month that Sten won and he was the true start of our teams rise to new heights in Asia.
This is Sten . . . our "not so secret" weapon! proud, proud , proud!

It all comes down to this . . . MACAU AIG!

2007-10-29T10:16:00.000-07:00

When I took this job as coach for the Thai team . . . and basically everyday since (at least for a minute or two), I have wondered what was going to happen when we got to Macau for the Olympic Asia Indoor Games.
In 2005 the first Asia Indoor Games was held in Suphanburi, Thailand - which is why our training facility (HOWEVER WELL USED) was there. Thailand was awarded two bronze medals that year.
We trained hard and often discussed what it takes to be at the top of the heap in order to be ready for this monumental undertaking . . . it was not in vein!
the competiton was fierce, but in the end our hard work and dedication has paid off with a respectable two SILVER medals!
Je won his medal in the park category with an array of flip-trickery including 360 flips and hard flip reverts over the hip. He effortlessly lipslid across an unreasonably long flat bar (bank to bank) and looked stylish and confident throughout his two finals runs.
Nut worked the three best trick stations over! On the hip he threw down nollie bigheelflips, nollie 270 heels and a perfect nollie backside flip. On the grind box (bank to bank), Nut did a ten foot backside nose grind to pop out and a lipslide to 50/50 to 180 out that was as smooth as if he was skating on teflon. The last station was the long hubba which he through down a respectable nollie noseslide the full length.
Es and Nui both skated their best as well and I felt so proud to be their coach!
These are some highlights from the Thailand team overall (unfortunately, there is no skateboarding action shots . . . I was busy pacing, cheering and being water-boy).

En route to Macau . . . coffee (and hot chocolate) break in Bangkok.

Wherever Thailand has a big event, a cheer troupe (of which these two belong) come out in full flair to hoot, holler, drum, chant, dance and basically prove that Thailand has spirit to spare!

On our way to the Opening Ceremony . . . this will be it's own entry when the pictures are resized (it was UNBELIEVABLE!!)

This is Jahm doing the high jump in the inline competition. I just want to state for the record that I am a skateboarder, but I can tell you without question . . . Jahm is nothing short of amazing I have spent months impressed by his ridiculous power and fearlessness. YOU ROCK JAHM!

I didn't get a good shot of the high jump for Bike, but these are are boys celebrating Gold and Silver in it . . . so imagine Jahm rplaced by a bike!

Our brother Ton!

This is the crew celebrating our first medal of the games. We dedicated our medals in part to my assistant coach Ton. Ton was informed that he would not be able to attend Asia Indoor Games a few days before he was to fly out with us to Macau. The arm bands are in Ton's honor and we wore them for the duration of the 2nd Asia Indoor Games . . . Ton, you are an awesome coach! You are family and you were missed brother! - YOUR TEAM

The two pictures above were shots that I took of Geng and Tee (pronounced Dee). They are the cornerstones of Thailands bike team and this high flying acrobatics is the norm for them . . . Rockstars!

Congratulations to my Thailand team! I couldn't have imagined just how much fun and fulfilling this adventure would be . . . It's so fun to have a bunch of Thai brothers! THAILAND REPRESENT!

Our Party Night In S.F.

2007-10-16T20:43:00.000-07:00

There is always something to do in San Francisco and if it is your first trip to Nor Cal from some far away land . . . then hitting "The City" for some night life is a must!
FTC was having a video premier Saturday night for Consolidated. Later the same night was an opening for the new Haight St. Stussy store . . . with the legendary Tony Alva in attendance for his art show with some fellow skate artisits.
The beer flowed and the introductions and Skate Pro sightings were many. Following The Premier and the Stussy party . . . and back to FTC for another more intimate gathering, we all headed to Milk for some dancing and mild debauchery.

Consolidated Premier @ FTC!

Es got a prize deck with typical Consolidated "cheeky" graphics . . . SWEET!

Andy runs FTC. He has been a friend for many years and is one of the nicest and most warm hearted guys I know. He truly does mankind justice . . . CHEERS HOMIE!

In front of Stussy with Kharma and James Kelch . . . veterans of the game.

My homeboy Bart with his homeboy Jess

Je and Es . . . not the board company (that's G&S)

Hanging with Toad - the only thing better is skating with Toad!

The United Colors of . . . Stussy!

HUF sighting on the way to MILK

Got MILK!?

To all of the great friends that we ran into and new ones we made . . . SKOL!(that's Swedish for cheers, right Dad?)

A visit to DLX

2007-10-10T09:05:00.001-07:00

Last week my illusive and generous friend Jim Thiebaud granted us the awesome opportunity to tour the DLX Distribution headquarters. Some of the top brands in skateboarding (including Spitfire, Thunder, Krooked, Anti Hero and Real) are created, designed and shipped all over the world from this S.F. based skate company.
Before the tour, we met up with our friend Shrewgy. Shrewg has spent some time in Thailand and was excited to see his good friends Je and Nut.

Shrewgy's sweet steed.

After some warm "hellos" and bike show and tell, we headed over to DLX.

As fortune would have it, we ran into Real pro Peter Ramondetta and Anti Hero's own Frank Gerwer out front . . . of course we took advantage of the photo op.

Es "sitting in the waiting room" before the tour . . . some sweet original Mark Gonzales art on the wall behind him.

This is my old friend Andy Mecum. We worked together at Visalia Skate Camp a decade ago and now he sells sells sells for DLX - rock'em Mecum!

Darren was our awesome tour guide. Here he shows the guys some of the new products being created including the new Real JT Aultz "Operation Ivy" deck . . . you'll just have to wait!

Only from the mind of Gonz . . . some straight up Krooked bling.

A plethora of colorways and pro series from Thunder.

Hanging out in the warehouse with a grip of boards, wheels, trucks and gear . . . and a gift for the guys.

Thanks to Jim, Darren and the whole DLX crew for a great tour . . . and keeping skateboarding strong, I mean REAL strong!

Thailand National skateboard team in the U.S.A.!!

2007-10-03T07:58:00.001-07:00

When I was told I had a budget to come to America with two of my skater's, I had my doubts as to whether it would come to pass . . . but WE ARE HERE!

The Marin headlands is an old army bunker which has a fantastic view of the bay and the Golden Gate Bridge. Here is the crew and Chelsa about to arrive at one of the worlds most famous sites.

I think Je calling Chelsa "Mom" was maybe the cutest thing ever . . . the proud parents!

We are really here! Nui, Sten and Ton couldn't be here, but we miss them and wish they were here. We miss you guys!!

One amazing city!

Je throws a precision tre over a pylon at the Novato skatepark.

My best friend Bart met the guys and showed them what a proper gap to tailslide looks like!

Nut getting some K-grind to fakie action on a bank to block @ Novato.

The crew chillin' @ Novato in the shade of some palm trees

Suphanburi Football!

2007-10-03T07:27:00.003-07:00

As luck would have it, our training facility in Suphanburi ended up being about 30 yards from the city's Thailand Premier League's football (soccer) stadium. We are able to catch a game about once a week just as we finish up our afternoon practice.
I had a chance to document some of the highlights from last weeks game . . .

This well placed header went straight to Suphanburi's striker's foot and just missed it's target (the back of the net).

Suphanburi's defense flinches as a penalty shot is fired.

Airborn battle for posession.

A sweet goal attempt off the forward's forhead.

A local football shop owner who played for Switzerland as a child told me that "Thailand football . . . not as good", but we get a kick out of checking it out anyways. Come back next time for our trip to the U.S.!!

Wat phai Temple

2007-09-26T05:19:00.000-07:00

The Temples in Thailand are nothing short of awe inspiring. The shear size of the structures is unbelievable. The intricate detailed carvings, sculptures and murals both in and out of these bulidings is a testiment to the reverence that the people have to their gods and beliefs.

The pigeons loved this giant Jigsaw Puzzle . . . the pictures don't even do this amazing masterpiece justice.

The inside of this temple had these amazing sculptures and pillars pictured.
Nui and Es stand in the tower. The view of the other temples from this one . . . too cool.

These are just a few of the many sculptures around the grounds

I heard the monks melodically praying and shot a photo of this monk as strolled the path afterward with this surreal backdrop.

Nui took time out to climb on one of our parties back and get some really sour pea pods out of a tree for a snack.

Each of the points on this burial temple house the ashes of someone . . . it felt like they were at peace. What a wonderous world.

POOL PARTY!!!

2007-09-25T05:28:00.000-07:00

We had an impromptu pool party last Friday and it was pretty fun . . . so we decided to have another one this weekend as a "coming to America" send off for the team.
We had a good time - music, drinks, swimming . . . the works!

Jahm, Fah, Ying and . . . (sorry Ji, I forgot your girls name) lounging.

Skateboarding coaches putting their heads together in an effort to make one good brain cel.

C-Zar does an Axl Rose impersonation while Note shows off his sixer.

P A R T Y!

Far east levatation trick

My posse!

Caught in the act

2007-09-20T21:31:00.000-07:00

Wasuat is one of the guys in the association who takes care of things like flight Itineraries, scheduling problems and many other things . . . basically he is the goto guy.
Wasuat recently gave me some cool pictures of different aspects of our daily routine.

We are ALWAYS stretching. We basically stretch before and after anything physical that we do. The benefits of being well stretched are obvious right away . . . It feels great making it a part of everyday life.

Although I totally love to skate with my team . . . I generally reserve it for the weekends or in the evening. In order to make an impact on the calibur of my skaters technical ability, I have to see exactly what is happening. I always try to pay close attention to each of my skaters in order to have an understanding of their specific needs. It's weird at first to focus on watching and analizing instead of skating, but it is so fulfilling to see the progression that comes from the ability to give wise insight.

6:30AM football is best played barefoot. Unfortunately, we had so many toe jams that we had to go back to shoes.

There is such a feeling of exhileration to wake up early and go to bed exhausted . . . it truly gives some better perspective to what a day can be . . . speaking of which have a great one all!

Odds and Ends . . .

2007-09-18T21:20:00.000-07:00

I haven't done much documentation lately, but in an effort to keep this blog from stagnating . . . I figured I should just throw some odds and ends up.

I've been away from my friends, family and girlfriend for a while now . . . sometimes the separation anxiety causes mild mood swings.

These were just a couple of photos taken at the doctors office prior to health check ups for the event in Macau.

This was a trip through Bangkok with our fearless Tuk-Tuk driver after a long day of outdoor market shopping. Good Times.
There is an upcoming trip to the U.S. for some of our atheletes and coaches . . . as soon as we sort through some political red-tape . . . pictures and words to follow . . .

Fashion Boy Hotel's debut album

2007-09-11T07:21:00.000-07:00

So this weekend a few of us went to Bangkok to do some gift shopping and sight-seeing. Upon arrival to our goto Hotel, we found to our dismay that Bangkok was the sight of an International wheelchair tennis tournament and that it was next to impossible to get a room . . . I kid you not!
Eventually, we found what will probably end up being the funniest hotel of the trip . . . the "My Lady Fashion Hotel"!

After many failed attempts to find a reasonably priced room . . . we happened magically upon the "Fashion Hotel", a place with themed rooms where you take your girl, guy or whatever for a romantic evening. Well to make a long story short, we bit the bullet and got two rooms. All of the ladies at the front desk were giggling and I am fairly certain that they thought we were "couples" - awesome.

Sweet shots of our room layout . . . there is a window from the bathroom to the bedroom - can we request drapes!!?

The next morning we decided to create a fictional boy band . . . Fashion Boy Hotel.
Above is our debut album cover.

Fire in SuphanBuri!!

2007-09-11T06:59:00.000-07:00

On Monday during training, we saw a pretty mammoth billow of black smoke coming from some not so distant spot in the city. I came to find on my way home that it was right across the street from my hotel. Twenty four dwellings and shops were burned down in the fai (fire) which started from an electrical fire in a lumber business.
People were flocking to the scene . . . a big deal in this town. I took some pictures which are somewhat surreal. I couldn't get over the ominous sky. Today I shot some pictures of the aftermath.
They have set up rescue tents with food and water, etc. Here are some pictures;

Locals and Mike viewing the fire squelching efforts.

Emergency and police finishing up a long day of fire fighting.

An ironically enchanting photo considering the subject.

The aftermath.

It is hard to see all of these families displaced, but everyone is helping each other out and the spirit is still warm. Suphan Buri is a tough and resilient town and that's just how they roll . . . with the punches.

Some actual skateboarding!

2007-09-05T20:26:00.000-07:00

As I am generally absorbed in training my team, I don't often get a chance to document their trickery. Mike snipered a picture of me putting the guys through rainbow rail practice and I was able to shoot a couple of pictures as well. Enjoy . . .

Me Coaching, Nut smith grinding

This is Ji. He is one of my skaters and here he shows the text-book backside smith grind (tongue-out style points) . . . GET IT JI!

Here is Nui with a 50/50 grind to backside 180 out.

Mad Props to the East Bay Noodles

2007-09-03T21:10:00.000-07:00

This is Chelsa. She is ridiculously creative and she has a thoroughly entertaining blog. I invite you all to give yourselves a treat and see just what fun, intriguing and creative entry she has posted today

. . . Cheers babe!
Oh, also she is the BESSSSST!

Creatures!

2007-09-03T21:00:00.000-07:00

When you have an exotic adventure, there are strange things all around you. Sometimes you can forget to mention the things that have become familiar . . . like ELEPHANTS IN THE STREETS!

In Suphan Buri, it is not uncommon to see an elephant with a blinker on his tail, mimmicking the more reasonable traffic. For 20 Baht (65 cents) you can buy some food to feed the elephants . . . really fun. Elephants are so incredible and this one had a great smile!

BONUS CREATURE! . . . Here is a Thailand spiked wharfing toad who I noticed drinking Leo brand beer out of a bottle cap. He flipped the cap over and played dumb when I tried to get proof, but he couldn't hide his drunk eyes.

Trip to the old market

2007-09-03T20:17:00.000-07:00

There is an old market about a half hour away from Suphan Buri that we checked out this weekend.
It is mostly food so I didn't take that many pictures of the market itself, but here are some random shots (click to enlarge);

The crew getting ready to check it out

Nui in front of the historical Mayors mansion house of the village. This house is now a museum with some really cool antique furniture, portraits, etc. When important political figures would pass through the village they would stay in the guest quarters here.

The VIP guest room at the Mayors mansion (Mike posing as a historical political figure).

Flooring imported from Italy for the mayor 100 years ago.

As is with most of the surrounding villages in the SuphanBuri area, there was a large river running through the center of town. This area of Thailand gets a lot of rainfall and rice is a huge agricultural industry here.

Apichat hired me as Thailand's skateboarding coach and was this outings mastermind . . . he is always the one taking group pictures, so I thought he deserved a photo too.

Outside the market was a shrine for one of the past Kings of Thailand.
Good times as usual.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY POPS!!

2007-08-30T05:27:00.000-07:00

This is my Dad.
It was his Birthday yesterday so I figured it was a good time to share with everyone that my parents have been the biggest positive influence throughout my life. They have always told me that I could be or do anything . . . I looked up to them so much that I believed it (lucky).
My Dad makes friends anywhere he goes. People just seem to want to be on his team (I think it's because it's obvious that he loves life so much). I like to think that I take after him.
He loves football (Soccer) like I love skateboarding so Dad, I want you to know we play football every Tuesday and Thursday morning!

Happy Birthday Dad! I love you.

SKATE JAM in CHACHOENGSAO!!

2007-08-27T20:57:00.000-07:00

Because we skate morning until night all week long, on the weekends we like to relax and have a little R&R. On the other hand . . . WE COULD SKATE MORE!
A new indoor park opened in Bangkok and Es had friends from all over going to the Chachoengsao Skate Jam on Sunday (which happens once a month . . . so cool!). We decided to forego resting and shred it up . . . Here are some of the pictures from the weekend (click to enlarge).

This is the housing on the river bank, Thailand rustic . . . grittily romantic.

This is a typical modern-day Tuk Tuk pilot.

Exotic VIP cat.

Attempting to escape the heat for a minute.

Hey!, eels are on sale this week . . . only 20 Baht!(not you Eelss)

Here are some highlights from the JAM . . .

Pek wins the high ollie!

Es kickflips over the box . . .

and Eit with a torqued melon!

Eit again . . . backside tailslip!

Bom (the MC pictured) will be a movie director someday . . . for now he just rips and edits films and throws awesome skate jams!

With all of the excitement, I decided it was time to get something done too . . . so I launched myself over this dirt gap a dozen times . . .

sweat and blood and fun

"V" shaped gutter on the sides of the street = ouch!

Victory!!

Hope everyone out there is living it up . . . this is it people!!
If you need any suggestions . . . just ask!
Don't be an eel monkey with a bullem head!

Some random eye candy . . .

2007-08-22T21:29:00.000-07:00

Here are some different things that i have taken photos of in the last few weeks. This is just a little taste of the flavor of suburban Thailand (as with most of my entries, clicking on a small picture will enlarge) enjoy! . . .

My skaters joke that dogs are "VIP" in Thailand . . . which means that they get to be anywhere . . . and are EVERYWHERE! They hang out on every sidewalk, on the islands between intersections and in front of every shop. At night they can be found getting there "mack on" to ensure future generations of VIP dogs.

These are typical outdoor market shops which exists on a few streets in each town. The ability to buy a glass of fresh juice for 5 Baht (15 cents) still excites me to no end!

A typical street . . . and a cute baby a had to shoot.

This is just the condensation on my cupholder on the bus . . . I just liked it. Next entry . . . learn the delights of the Mangkoot!!

Dying for a minute . . . but I am back!

2007-08-22T21:25:00.000-07:00

Hey my friends!
So, I think the change of . . . well, EVERYTHING took it's toll and I ended up getting a fairly severe case of Bronchitis (ouch). Bed ridden for a few days and now felling much better after about half way through antibiotics . . . so there that is.
Back to the program!

Happy Birthday Andrea!!

2007-08-16T05:24:00.000-07:00

I know it's late . . . but I am claiming the half world rule (as long as it's the same week!)
(CLICK PIC to view)

. . . I Can't wait to see you for Christmas when our family gets the best gift ever!

Pattaya Adventure . . .

2007-08-14T20:06:00.000-07:00

It was Mother's Day weekend in Thailand (Happy Mother's Day Mom, I Love You!), so we decided to take a trip to the infamous Pattaya. The best description I can think of to describe this city is Cabo on Steroids. There is SO much going on and so much potential for mayhem it almost defies belief . . . of course we stayed out of most of it ;)
Here are some of the strange and wonderful goings on in Pattaya for the crew which consisted of;
Myself, Mike Opalek (inline coach), Martti (flatland coach), Note (inline skater), Nui (one of my skateboarders), Noi (our medical technician) and Pup (Noi's friend from Bangkok) . . .
(OH, CLICK ON PHOTOS TO ENLARGE!!)

This was our day at the beach. Fun in the sun, relaxing with Coconut juice and a huge seafood spread throughout the afternoon . . . Top picture (left to right)- Mike, Noi, Pup, Note and Nui.

As Usual, there is fun and games along the way . . . this one was "the bush jump", which I decided to dive right into. Around this time of night, Note transforms into a Warlock and starts trying to cast spells and stuff . . . pretty cool.

Mike and I met up at the International Meeting Street . . . where the world comes to um, meet I guess. On this street at night, the girls will be boys (proceed with caution . . . Martti!)

Riding around in an open air taxi - me Martti and Note

The fish eyeball challenge. After, we claimed the Grouper carcass for the good 'ol US of A . . . and replaced the eye with a cherry!

Night Life is abundant in Pattaya no matter what team you're on!

More Pattaya to come after I transfer my photos . . . this batch courtesy of Mike.
Cheers From Paradise!

Shrewgy brings the "yoon"

2007-08-10T20:22:00.003-07:00

This is a recent correspondence with my buddy Shrewgy. In case it's even possible that anyone doesn't know him, he's a skater who's been in the game forever. He is the person who got me into judging which is definately part of how this coaching job came to pass . . . Thanks Shrewg!(this is the only picture of you I have in Thailand) -

Ughhh, that is pretty sick. Do you know that Nutt and Ji are my friends? I love them dudes. I know Tong too, he always judges the Thai Asian X Qualifiers. He used to work for Quiksilver Thailand too. I was never able to get his e-mail to work though. Damn, homey do it up man! I hope you can get those guys into contest form. I am sure you have noticed now that they definitely have the skills!

Keep posting in the blog and I'll keep checking up on it. Oh yeah how are the "yoon" (mosquitoes) in Suphanburi treating you, they were kinda savage when I went there (no repellant).

Shrewg

What's up Shrewgy!!
Thanks for hittin' me up!
Yes! I do know that Nutt and Ji know you . . . they asked me about where you were and I told them about you going on that Emerica bike tour . . . they both went "ooooooooohhhhhhhhh!". It was pretty awesome!
The mosquitos are not even existent yet . . . now that you planted the seed, I am sure that will change (HAHA).
You wouldn't believe the gruelling days I put these guys through . . . So far they have ALL learned backside and frontside 50/50 nollie out, shov-it out and backside and frontside 180 out . . . into transition over the box! I won't even start with what they've learned on transition in one week . . . basically they rule!
They're freaking warriors man! Even when they're scared or tired or hurt, they still want to try!
I am already a proud coach . . .
Anyways, rock on and i'll hit ya back again soon!
EK

Our 300 attempt . . . AHOO!

2007-08-09T21:10:00.000-07:00

I have finalized our weekly training schedule, so just in case anyone wants to know how I am spending my days out in good ‘ol Suphan Buri, Thailand . . . here is the break down;

Monday/Wednesday/Friday-

6:30 – 6:45 AM: stretching
6:45 – 7:15 AM: Jogging (approximately 3 miles on the track)
7:15 – 7:30 AM: stretching
7:30 – 8:15 AM: weight training (in the campus health club)
8:15 – 8:30 AM: stretching (you can’t get enough stretching!)
8:30 – 9:00 AM: Breakfast . . . kai dow is egg, cow is rice . . . ka-pow-moo-kai-dow is spicy pork with rice and egg on top (not too shabby for 67 cents!)
9:00 AM – 12:30 PM: free time
12:30 – 1:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 – 5:00 PM technical training (hour after hour of perfecting to specific detail, all kinds of skateboarding trickery on flat ground and transition.
5:00 PM on: free time (from what I here, they eat and sleep . . . I consider it a success when I wear out the guys!)

Tuesday/Thursday/Saturday-

6:30 – 6:45 AM: stretching
6:45 – 7:30 AM: swimming (treading water until exhaustion, rest, swim under water as far as possible contests, swim laps, etc.)
7:30 – 7:45 AM: stretching
7:45 – 8:45 AM: technical training
8:45 – 9:15 AM: Breakfast
9:15 AM – 12:30 PM: free time
12:30 – 1:00PM Lunch
*afternoon is the same as Mon/Wed/Fri
So that is what my life consists of six days a week, but make no mistake . . . the fun is in the details!
Here is what I look like in my Thai National training gear @6:00AM for a morning workout!!
(note the obvious morning hair and face!)

One for my love!

2007-08-08T05:19:00.000-07:00

This one goes out to my very favorite Team-mate! The one who always has my back and always makes me feel like someone more than I am on my own . . .

Rock On Babe!!

The Adventure has begun . . .

2007-08-07T21:19:00.000-07:00

My first week of coaching is going wonderfully!
Below is a picture of myself and my assistant coach Ton . . .

The Thailand National Skateboard Team is(from left to right): Nut, Ed, Stan, Nui and Ji (pronounced JEE).
I was a little nervous about how we would get along for about three and a half minutes.
As it seems anywhere I've traveled so far, when it comes to skateboarders we're all just relatives who haven't yet met. The guys are warriors! They are great students, great skaters pupils and new family.
It is truly a gift I am relishing!
I met them on Saturday for our first training session - we ran three miles in the morning, skated in the afternoon (i mostly watched and took notes and gave some small instruction) and went out and partied Saturday night (at this crazy club with a live stage show for about three hours with Thai men and women covering Avril Lavigne songs and other Thai and International pop hits). At my riders request, we trained Sunday (our day off) for about three hours . . . JUST FOR FUN!! Way cool!
Thailand is rich with culture, the people are open and warm hearted and food is about 80 cents a meal.
If you are the on the Thai National Team (or their coach), people see your emblems (we were outfitted with training gear, "Thailand" across the shoulders and National and Olympic symbols on front), then you get a little extra excitement in your "Sa-Wat-Dee" (hello) whenever meeting someone. It is an honor to be here and I can't wait to see how it all unfolds!

My first blog . . . Charmed, I'm sure.

2007-08-03T20:35:00.000-07:00

Dare to dream
After leaving SFO some ten plus hours ago, I am sitting in Tokyo International Airport awaiting the second leg of my flight to my latest adventure . . . Thailand National Skateboarding Coach!
I made a new friend, Shunsuke, on the plane. “Shun” was flying home to Japan to visit his family and "expecting" sister for summer break from school in Concord. We talked and shared photos and stories most of the flight.
Shun’s sister (who happens to be his families dog as well) got pregnant on his birthday recently . . . I’m not certain how he knew it was the same day, but congratulations to his “little sister” none-the-less! Here is a picture of us on the plane before I offered the lady next to me my extra sugar packet as a joke (my bad attempt at overcoming our language barrier).