Laura Thornhill is a renowned figure in the world of skateboarding, known for her achievements as a professional skateboarder during the 1970s. Born on April 13, 1963, in Redondo Beach, California, Laura’s passion for skateboarding emerged at a young age.
At just 13 years old, Laura’s exceptional skills were recognized by Danny Bearer, who recruited her to join Logan Earth Ski. Shortly after, Laura gained widespread attention when she claimed first place in both slalom and freestyle events at a Steve’s South Bay contest in 1975. This accomplishment marked the beginning of an illustrious career for the young skateboarder.
Under the mentorship of Warren Bolster, Laura Thornhill became the second female skater ever to have her own signature model skateboard. This distinctive achievement not only highlighted Laura’s exceptional talent but also paved the way for future generations of female skateboarders.
Laura’s groundbreaking accomplishments did not stop there. She became the first female skateboarder to feature on the renowned skateboarding magazine, Skateboarder. Her inclusion in the magazine’s Who’s Hot section showcased her undeniable skills and solidified her place as a trailblazer in the sport. Subsequently, Laura also became the first woman to have a full-feature interview in the magazine and even graced the pages as the first and only female centerspread.
Throughout the 1970s, Laura Thornhill’s dominance in women’s skateboarding was unrivaled. She consistently emerged victorious or placed highly in almost every women’s competition. Notably, Laura also fearlessly competed against and defeated male skaters, transcending gender barriers in the sport. Her iconic long, flowing hair while performing gravity-defying 360s became synonymous with the era and is often featured in skateboarding documentaries.
Beyond her success in organized competitions, Laura Thornhill was known for her unwavering fearlessness when it came to tackling all types of terrain. She fearlessly charged through backyard pools, vertical parks, and full pipes, proving her prowess as a versatile and fearless skater. Her presence and skill on the ramps and in the parks often intimidated her male counterparts.
In addition to her personal achievements, Laura also played a significant role in shaping the skateboarding landscape by paving the way for young talents. It was during one of her skateboarding sessions in a pool in Torrance that Laura discovered a nine-year-old Eric Dressen, who would go on to become a skateboarding legend. Laura helped Dressen secure his first board sponsorship through Logan Earth Ski and even played a pivotal role in him landing his own Who’s Hot feature at the age of only 10.
In 1987, Laura Thornhill married and continued to be involved in the skateboarding community. Her dedication to the sport remains evident as she passes on her incredible skill and love for skateboarding to her children, Sage and Kylie.
Laura Thornhill’s impact on the male-dominated world of skateboarding cannot be overstated. Her trailblazing achievements opened doors for countless female skaters and inspired generations of women to pursue their passion for skateboarding. She defied gender norms, shattered glass ceilings, and made an indelible mark on women’s history in skateboarding. Laura Thornhill’s name will forever be synonymous with courage, skill, and the advancement of women in skateboarding.