Longboarder carving down a hill

Longboards

why i think longboarding should be an olympic sport

By Roxy Miller

Published: 20 Jan 2025

First Taste of Freedom (and Some Wipeouts)

Honesty is said to be the best policy, so let's tell it as it is. I wasn't exactly born with a silver spoon in my mouth. Growing up, 'extravagant' meant extra sprinkles on my ice cream. But my uncle – total longboarding enthusiast – introduced me to carving down hills on a board. It was exhilarating! It was a kind of freedom I'd never experienced before. That feeling, that pure, unadulterated joy of speed and balance – it's what makes me believe longboarding deserves an Olympic spot.

I still vividly remember my first time. I ate it big time. Scraped knees, bruised ego, but I got back up. That's the beauty of longboarding; it is a test for resilience, agility, and grace. And, yes, sometimes you are going to fall! But getting up and trying again? This is an important lesson in life and a core value in any sport, don't you think?

Girl falling and laughing while longboarding

Girl falling and laughing while longboarding | Image: Supplied

Beyond the Boards: The Skills of a Longboarder

Forget the stereotype of the laid-back surfer dude. Longboarding requires serious skillβ€”think about it: incredible balance, precise body control, strategic maneuvering, and, of course, the mental game. You're always reacting to changes in the terrain, building up speed, and knowing exactly when to move your weight. It's a symphony of movement, a dance between board and rider, and the sheer artistry is so often overlooked.

There's a strategy to every carve and slide: it's not simply a matter of how fast one can descend the mountain; it's also about maintaining control, flow, and style. It demands absolute, extreme focus and concentrationβ€”like high-level gymnastics or archery, for that matter, in terms of attention to detail.

And the athletics? Forget about it! The muscles you developβ€”especially core strength and leg powerβ€”are just insane. Try it and see what I mean!

Close up shot of a longboarder's feet

Close up shot of a longboarder's feet | Image: Supplied

The global appeal of longboarding is a spectators' delight.

Longboarding is not limited to the beaches of California. It's an international sport with fanatic communities alive and kicking in Japan, Brazil, and South Africa. This, if anything, makes it an event of perfect fit for the Olympics. Diversity in styleβ€”be it downhill racing, freestyle tricks, or dancing on the boardβ€”would have undoubtedly caught the world's attention. Just think about the amazing thrill when these athletes are stretching what is physiologically possible to new extremes, with every single run a work of art by itself.

Plus, longboarding is aesthetically beautiful: think bright clothes, stunning landscapes, and the pure beauty of a well-executed slideβ€”moments made for high-definition television and millions of viewers around the globe. It's not just a sport; it's performance art in motion.

Diverse group of longboarders from around the world competing

Diverse group of longboarders from around the world competing | Image: Supplied

The Olympics Need a Dose of Cool: Longboarding is the Answer

Honestly, the Olympics feel a little stuffy sometimes. Longboarding will inject a much-needed dose of youth energy, creativity, and adrenaline. It stands for rebellion against convention, celebration of individuality, and the commitment to the pursuit of boundaries. It is exciting and accessible in equal measure; something that might capture the imagination of a new generation of viewers.

This new Olympic roster is just great; incorporating longboarding into this program wouldn't dilute other existing sports-it would simply improve it. Be real here, guys; the Olympics must progress with time, get on board, and relate to these youths who would participate today. Adding longboarding is what this sport badly needs-people actually need something of a change.

Longboarder executing a stylish trick

Longboarder executing a stylish trick | Image: Supplied

More than a sport, it is a cultural phenomenon.

Longboarding is more than just riding a boardβ€”it's a lifestyle, community, and expression. Friendships that form among longboarders are just amazing; people from all walks of life are brought together by this common interest. Longboarding in the Olympics will showcase this special culture and connect millions to the excitement and inspiration of this sport.

Think about it: the opening ceremonies, with longboarders gliding into the stadium; the medal ceremonies, where the winners share light with their communities. That is what makes it so compelling. It's a celebration of skill, spirit, unity, and global connectivity.

Longboard community event

Longboard community event | Image: Supplied

What do you think?

I totally have the conviction that longboarding ought to be an Olympic sport. What do you think? Do you feel it deserves a spot on the world's biggest sporting stage? Let me know what you think in the comments below – I'd love to hear your take on this!

β€œThe only way to do great work is to love what you do.” – Steve Jobs

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