The Paris 2024 Olympic Games promise to offer a breathtaking spectacle with the addition of street skateboarding as an official discipline. Popularized in the 1950s on the west coast of the United States, skateboarding has evolved to become one of the most followed extreme sports in the world. In this article, we reveal everything you need to know about this unique discipline before the games.
The history and evolution of skateboarding
Born in the wake of surfing in the mid-20th century, skateboarding offers a new approach to board sports. In its early days, it was mainly practiced in the streets and public spaces of California. The sport quickly gained popularity, influencing urban culture and leading to the emergence of the first official competitions.
From Californian origins to international podiums
With pioneers such as Rodney Mullen, considered the inventor of modern skateboarding, skateboarding has made its mark thanks to its bold and innovative character. This sport, once limited to local skaters, has since become global, attracting the attention of young talents from all corners of the world.
The competition format at the Olympic Games
Street skateboarding will be held in an urban setting specially arranged for the occasion. Competitors must excel in speed, height, and originality while performing their tricks. The competition will take place over several rounds, with each skater having two runs and their five best tricks, with combined scores determining the winner.
Key dates to remember
For these upcoming Olympic Games, the men's street skateboarding events are scheduled for July 27, 2024, while the women will compete on July 28, 2024. Mark these dates in your calendars to not miss any of this exciting event.
An iconic Olympic site
The site dedicated to street skateboarding will be located in the heart of Paris, between the Jardin des Tuileries and the Champs-Élysées, at Place de la Concorde. This central location will also host other spectacular disciplines such as BMX freestyle and breakdance, thus creating a festive and adrenaline-filled atmosphere.
Photo credit: Paris 2024 Olympic Games
The stars expected on the Parisian runways
The historical dominance of the United States is gradually being dethroned by new talents from Japan and elsewhere. In 2021, at the last Olympic Games, Japan surprised by placing Yuto Horigome and Nishiya Momiji on the highest steps of the podium. At only 13 years old, Momiji became a true prodigy of the discipline.
Photo credit: IC
The French hopes for Paris 2024
For France, all eyes will be on Vincent Milou, who finished fourth in Tokyo, and Aurélien Giraud, former world champion in 2013. These two talented skateboarders represent the best chances for French medals in street skateboarding. Facing them, Californians such as Nyjah Huston and Brazilians like Rayssa Leal will bring their own flair and international experience to the competition.
Photo credit: Paris 2024 Olympic Games
A promising future for street skateboarding
As skateboarding continues to grow in popularity, the Olympic Games offer an unprecedented showcase to inspire a new generation of skateboarders. Not only does this help legitimize the sport in the eyes of the general public, but it also provides a global platform for emerging athletes. It remains to be seen which new records will be set and which incredible tricks will captivate spectators at this historic event.
In conclusion, the Paris 2024 Olympic Games will celebrate not only the raw talent and creativity of street skaters, but also the spirit of innovation and community that characterize this dynamic sport. Get ready to be dazzled by electrifying performances that could well redefine what it means to roll and fly on a skateboard.
