NPR

'Rebel' Skateboarding Is Ready For Its Olympic Debut in Tokyo

Skateboarding is one of four new sports added to the Olympics this year. For skateboarders who have long loved their rebel status, performing in the mainstream Olympics is just a bit different.
Alexis Sablone of the U.S., shown here in 2018, will compete in the Olympic debut of skateboarding.

Skateboarding is ready for its time to shine at the Tokyo Olympics. Competitors will show off the skills they developed in the streets and skateparks around the world, and the hope is that they attract younger fans to watch the Games.

It's been an interesting ride for the sport that has rebel roots in southern California.

The skatepark on the beach in Venice, Calif., is a mecca for the sport. For decades,

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR4 min readInternational Relations
Hamas Says Latest Cease-fire Talks Have Ended. Israel Vows A Military Operation Soon
The latest round of Gaza cease-fire talks ended in Cairo. Meanwhile, Israel closed its main crossing point for delivering badly needed humanitarian aid for Gaza after Hamas attacked it.
NPR2 min read
Jerry Seinfeld And The Fraught History Of Comedians And 'Political Correctness'
Jerry Seinfeld has the become the latest in a string of public figures to blame "political correctness" for the death of comedy (among other societal ills). But what does the term actually refer to?
NPR2 min readDiscrimination & Race Relations
U Of Mississippi Opens Probe Over Hostile Protest That Involved Racist Taunts
Videos of Thursday's incident at the school were shared on social media showing heated confrontations between pro-Palestinian protesters and a larger group of counterprotesters.

Related Books & Audiobooks