IGSA and the skateboarding world would like to congratulate Hunter Swanson from the USA for receiving the first ever # 800 in the history of the IGSA.
Hello, my name is Hunter Swanson #800 in the IGSA. I am from Afton, Minnesota and I am 17 years old. I began my longboarding journey riding this “Legendary Dancer” and began racing at local outlaws around Minnesota.
Being part of the longboarding community, people have given me a nickname “The salamander” for my low profile stance I have when I ride. I get teased for riding a dancer in local races, but the outcome usually proves them wrong. I now ride the Northern pine Driftwood and use the euro tuck.
In my early days of riding, my friends and I taught each other new tricks we learned by watching the Pros on “Youtube”. I found that video and still prints have really provided a fun and creative way to learn. So we now have began making our own videos for others to learn from and laugh at.
This summer has been the best summer because it seems that every one of my buddies has become a longboarder. Although, school has separated us, we still find the time to ride. My younger brother is my biggest fan and he has now gotten his buddies riding. It has become a family sport.
A big accomplishment this year was nabbin a sponsor: “Northern Pine Longboards”. Thanks to them I am able to compete in the IGSA in San Dimas! I am totally stoked to have my riding buddy/ board maker / photo guy, Jordan Andrews and his Dad come out to the races and watch me compete.
Thanks to everyone who I have encountered and who encouraged me to ride hard and take chances.
-Hunter Swanson, #800