Biography:
Jana Payne-Booker is a legendary figure in the world of skateboarding, known for her skill, influence, and resilience. Born and raised in Anaheim, California, Jana found her passion for skateboarding at an early age. Her journey in the sport began when the Concrete Wave skatepark opened in the mid-1970s, just five blocks away from her house. Eager to explore the thrilling world of skateboarding, Jana quickly immersed herself in the sport.
After only three months of dedicated practice at Concrete Wave, Jana caught the attention of the park’s team scouts. Recognizing her talent and potential, she was recruited to join the prestigious Concrete Wave team. This opportunity paved the way for her to secure sponsorship from renowned companies like Sims, Vans, and Gordon and Smith (G&S). Stacy Peralta, a skateboarding icon himself, personally invited Jana to join G&S, further solidifying her status as a rising star in the skateboarding community.
Jana’s unique style and fearless approach to skateboarding captivated the attention of skateboarding enthusiasts and industry professionals alike. In the November 1977 issue of Skateboarder, she was featured in the esteemed Who’s Hot segment at the young age of 14. Brian Gillogly, the author of the feature, praised Jana’s distinct preference for vertical and near-vertical skating, particularly in pools. He emphasized the importance of reassessing gender stereotypes in the sport, highlighting Jana’s ability to master radical terrains typically associated with male skateboarders.
One of Jana’s notable achievements was her exploration of the Fruit Bowl, a popular skateboarding spot. Despite being relatively new to the scene, she fearlessly tackled the challenging terrain, hitting tile on only her second or third day. Her remarkable progress and undeniable talent solidified her reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the male-dominated skateboarding world.
However, Jana’s skateboarding journey was not without its hardships. At the Skateboard Hall of Fame induction in 2022, Jana courageously shared her experience as a survivor of childhood sexual assault. Tragically, her passion for skateboarding was tainted by the actions of her coach in the 1970s. Despite the trauma she endured, Jana’s strength and resilience never wavered. She chose to leave skateboarding, ultimately saving herself from further harm. The healing power of art and the influence of the #metoo movement have played a significant role in her journey of self-healing and advocacy.
Throughout her career, Jana Payne-Booker has been an inspiration to countless skaters and a pioneer for women in sports. Her determination to overcome adversity and her willingness to raise awareness about important issues such as sexual assault have made her a symbol of empowerment. By sharing her story, she has sparked meaningful conversations and brought attention to the need to create safer environments for athletes.
Awards:
– Inducted into the Skateboard Hall of Fame in 2022