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Robin Logan, one of skateboarding’s founding female pioneers, began her journey in skateboarding at a young age. She made history by becoming the first female to land a kickflip and her impressive performances in competitions solidified her status as one of the leading female skaters of her time. Robin used her platform to raise awareness of women’s participation in skateboarding and continues to be a dedicated advocate for the sport to this day.
Elissa Steamer, a trailblazing figure in the world of skateboarding, has made a significant impact on the sport and women’s history. Born in Fort Myers, Florida, United States, Steamer discovered her passion for skateboarding in 1989. She frequented a small city-owned skate park on Grand Avenue, embracing the rebellious nature of the sport from an early age.
Deanna Calkins, born in Inglewood, California in 1959, is a slalom icon in the world of skateboarding. Her passion for the sport began just two months before graduating from South High School in Torrance, in 1977. It didn’t take long for Deanna to discover the slalom course at Skateboard World in Torrance, where her talent quickly emerged.
Jana Payne-Booker, a legendary figure in skateboarding, was born and raised in Anaheim, California. She discovered her passion for skateboarding at an early age and quickly excelled in the sport. Her unique style and fearlessness on radical terrains broke gender stereotypes and earned her recognition. However, her journey was also marked by trauma, as she courageously shared her experience as a survivor of childhood sexual assault. Despite her hardships, Jana’s resilience and advocacy have made her an inspiration and symbol of empowerment in the skateboarding community.
Ellen Oneal, a pioneering figure in skateboarding, shattered gender stereotypes in the 1970s. From San Diego, she became one of the most prominent female skateboarders of her time, securing endorsements from prestigious brands like Vans and gaining recognition for her unique style. Regrettably, Ellen’s unexpected passing in October 2020 left a significant void in the skateboarding community, but her impact on the sport and her influence on future generations of female skateboarders remain unrivaled.
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.
Patti McGee (born August 23, 1945) is a trailblazing figure in the world of skateboarding. She made history as the first National Skateboard Champion for women in 1964, a feat that solidified her place in skateboarding history.
Peggy E. Oki is an American skateboarder, surfer, artist, and environmental activist. As an original member of the Z-Boys, she broke barriers and paved the way for female skateboarders. Oki’s impact extended beyond skateboarding as she founded the Origami Whales Project to raise awareness about commercial whaling. Her legacy as a trailblazer and advocate for the environment continues to inspire others.
Ellen Berryman, an influential figure in the world of skateboarding, was born and raised in Encinitas, California. Her journey in skateboarding began in 1975 when her sister introduced her to the vibrant skate scene at La Costa. Inspired by the smooth downhill paradise and the camaraderie of the skaters, Ellen decided to try her hand at skateboarding.
Jen O’Brien, born and raised in Deland, Florida, developed a deep passion for skateboarding and punk rock at an early age. This combination would become the driving force behind her remarkable career as a professional skateboarder and her influential role in the world of action sports and women’s skateboarding.
Vicki Vickers, a trailblazing figure in the world of skateboarding, emerged onto the California skateboarding scene in the late 1970s. Born and raised in Houston, Texas, Vickers quickly made a name for herself with her remarkable skills as a vert skater. Her contributions to the sport, both on and off the board, would leave an indelible mark on skateboarding history.
Judi Oyama is a professional skateboarder and a pioneer in the sport. Born and raised in Santa Cruz, California, Oyama developed a passion for skateboarding at a young age. At just 13 years old, she started skating in her driveway on a homemade board built by her brother in woodshop. Little did she know that this would be the beginning of an extraordinary career.
Kim Cespedes, a legendary figure in the skateboarding world, is known for her remarkable skills and contributions to the sport, especially during the 1970s. She emerged as one of the gnarliest girl skaters of her time, making a significant impact on the skateboarding community. Her dedication and passion for the sport quickly caught the attention of the skateboarding world.
Cindy Whitehead (born June 15, 1962) is an American professional skateboarder and activist. She is widely recognized as a pioneer of vertical skateboarding and has made significant contributions to the sport. In 2016, Whitehead was rightfully inducted into the Skateboarding Hall of Fame, solidifying her status as an influential figure in skateboarding history.
Desiree Von Essen Harrington, born in Huntington, Long Island, New York in 1958, emerged as one of the most prominent female skateboarders of the mid-1970s. Her unique style and determination made her a trailblazer in the male-dominated skateboarding community.
Tina Trefethen, a legendary figure in the world of skateboarding, gained fame and adoration for her exceptional skills and contributions to the sport during the 1970s. Her versatility, talent, and determination solidified her position as an icon and trailblazer in the skateboarding community, particularly in freestyle skateboarding. From winning hang gliding championships to showcasing her graceful freestyle maneuvers, Trefethen’s impact on the sport continues to inspire future generations. Recently, she was honored as a 2021 inductee into the Skateboarding Hall of Fame.
Laurie Turner Demott, a prominent figure in the skateboarding world, made history in 1965 by winning the American National Skateboard Championships and becoming the National Girls’ Champion. Her exceptional skills and groundbreaking achievements shattered the misconception that skateboarding was exclusively for boys, paving the way for a more inclusive future in the sport. Demott’s influence extended beyond skateboarding, inspiring future generations of female athletes and becoming a symbol of empowerment for girls and young women in breaking gender norms in sports.