Skateboarding Back at the Olympics: A New Wave of Inspiration

Skateboarding is making a splash once again as it returns to the Olympics, after first dazzling audiences in Tokyo. This summer, athletes will showcase their skills on the grand stage in Paris, France.

For many, skateboarding is more than just a sport; it’s a lifestyle. Robert Bremerman from RTD Skatepark describes it as embodying the spirit of resilience. He says, ‘You see a skater. They are a bloody, sweaty skateboarder, but if they could look past that and see resilience. They are conquering something in their mind, in their fears.’

Local skateboarder Gabriel Tavarez shared his personal connection to skateboarding and the park itself. ‘This is where I made all my friends. This is where I learned. This park is where I feel like I learned the most, where I progressed the most. It’s just one of my favorite places out here,’ Tavarez said.

RTD Skatepark has been a beloved spot for skaters in the Midland area since it opened in 2014. Bremerman hopes to provide a safe environment for everyone who walks through its gates. ‘My heart is to be a parent. Create a safe space. Whether you skate, bike, scoot, or you just want to hang out, know you’re safe here,’ he explained.

The skatepark is also a backdrop for the athletes to experience failure and triumph in a supportive community. ‘I’ve had thoughts in my head like, Should I even keep skateboarding? I’m in so deep. It’s where my people are. It’s where my heart is at. It’s really part of me,’ added Tavarez.

As the Olympics approach, Tavarez expressed his pleasure in seeing skateboarding finally getting the recognition it deserves. ‘It was shunned by people who were like mature and grown up, but now, it’s being recognized as a sport and something that actually takes effort. Not something that just bums do.’

Bremerman hopes the Olympic spotlight will inspire others to give skateboarding a try. ‘I always say, Fear makes you a poser. The wall of fear is two inches high. Step over it. There’s always someone around to help you. So just start. Just start. Find a board and just start,’ he advised.