Tony Hawk in Tears After Landing 'Last-Ever Ollie 540' on Video
Mar 18, 2021
Laureus World Sports Academy member Tony Hawk poses for photos upon arriving at the Laureus World Sports Awards in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Wednesday, March 26, 2014. (AP Photo/Lai Seng Sin)
Legendary skateboarder Tony Hawk completed his final ollie 540 in an emotional video posted to social media (warning: NSFW language):
— Epic Chain (Ex-Ethernity) (@EpicOnChain) March 18, 2021
After 32 years, Hawk showed he can still pull it off after several tries.
He was in tears afterwards as he confirmed it will be the last time he tries the one-and-a-half spin move.
"I'm like a little sad. I've never had much finality to anything but that was definitely the last one I'll ever do," Hawk said (h/t TMZ Sports). "Happy I made it."
While he can no longer keep up with the latest generation of competitors, Hawk continues to impress on the skateboard.
Video: Shaun White Goes Snowboarding with Rapper Travis Scott
Jan 30, 2021
Travis Scott performs at the Pre-Grammy Gala And Salute To Industry Icons at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on Saturday, Feb. 9, 2019, in Beverly Hills, Calif. (Photo by Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP)
Travis Scott might not be the best on the slope, but the novice snowboarder has a friend who is.
The rap star got some help from Olympian Shaun White this week, and it wasn't long before he was grinding and going airborne down the mountains.
White posted a video showing his protege's progress, with Scott clearly excited after landing the jump (warning: NSFW language):
Travis Scott got snowboarding lessons from X Games legend Shaun White 🔥 *NSFW*
Scott said in an Instagram post he was "overly hyped," and he had good reason to be. He only got his snowboard January 1.
Not bad progress for 30 days of work. With White's help, he might even be shredding halfpipes by this time next year.
Mr. Olympia 2020: Latest Event Schedule and Info on Past Winners
Dec 19, 2020
2012 Mr. Olympia, Phil Heath, poses for a portrait Wednesday, September 18, 2013, in Los Angeles. Heath's quest for the Olympia title is the focal point of director, Vlad Yudin's bodybuilding documentary,
The field is set for Mr. Olympia 2020 as defending champion Brandon Curry takes on a field that includes two previous winners of the Sandow Trophy and a slew of other top contenders in Orlando, Florida.
Like pretty much any other event in the year 2020, bodybuilding's biggest competition has been impacted by the coronavirus. Roelly Winklaar—who finished fifth in the 2019 event—has been ruled out after testing positive for COVID-19, perRoger Lockridgeof Barbend.com. That's in addition to the venue change for the event traditionally held in Las Vegas.
Mamdouh "Big Ramy" Ellsbiay will be competing in the event despite not officially qualifying after testing positive for coronavirus. He was extended a special invitation to compete, per Lockridge. The third-place finisher at the 2020 Arnold Classic figures to be a factor in the main event.
Curry's win in last year's event was a bit clouded by the absence of Phil Heath last year. The seven-time champion took the year off, and 2018 champion Shawn Rhoden was not permitted to compete because he was accused of sexual assault.
This year, the field is more competitive as Heath is back in the mix along with several other up-and-coming challengers.
Rhoden confirmed on JayCutlerTV (h/t Generation Iron) that he will sit out Mr. Olympia again this year as his ongoing legal battles have yet to be resolved. So that leaves three former champions who will compete for the prize this year.
Brandon Curry is the most recent, having won the title in 2019. His previous best in bodybuilding's premier event was a fifth-place finish in 2018, so it's fair to say his win came as a bit of a surprise. He did, however, win the Arnold Classic in 2019, which foreshadowed his breakthrough showing.
Now, he has the pressure of repeating as champion with Phil Heath (and others) gunning for another title. For his part, Curry has made it clear he isn't afraid of going toe-to-toe with Heath.
"I'm very comfortable going pose to pose," he said on Instagram Live (h/t Jonathan Salmon of Generation Iron). "I think I brought enough to improve. I don't think he's (Heath) going to be as dominant from the side against me. And despite what a lot of people may think, I don't think he's going to be as dominant from the back against me either."
Defeating Heath would certainly add some legitimacy to Curry's title. Heath is a legend of the sport as a seven-time winner of the Sandow. He's tied with Arnold Schwarzenegger for second-most wins of all-time. An eight victory would tie him with Ronnie Coleman and Lee Haney.
Heath's seven victories came in successive order from 2011-2017. That run came to an end with a narrow loss to Rhoden in 2018.
However, Heath believes he's back and ready to claim the title that would propel him to the rarest of company.
"I feel like I'm obviously going to be in great condition," Heath told Ron Harris of Muscular Development (h/t Kevin Grech of Evolution of Bodybuilding). "Everything is going to be where I need it to be. Otherwise, I would have never come back. That just doesn't make sense. I'm a pretty smart dude, if I still had injuries...I think a lot of people fail to realize that I had an injury."
Still, coming back from more than a year away from competition at 41 years old will be a difficult task.
Not as difficult as the path for 51-year-old Dexter Jackson, the only other previous winner in the field. He claimed the Sandow in 2008 but was a fourth-place finisher in the competition in 2019. Jackson told RxMuscle that this will be his final show as he intends to retire.
There's more than one former champion who has a chance at winning Mr. Olympia for the first time in their career, though.
William Bonac claimed his first win at the 2020 Arnold Classic in Columbus, Ohio. Given the form he displayed there and the physique that he will presumably bring to Orlando, he is just as good a bet to walk away with the top prize as anyone.
Bonac finished second in the competition last year and has finished in the top five each of the last five years. With Heath getting older, Curry unproven as a dynastic champion and Jackson riding into the sunset, this could be the Ghanaian's year.
Big Ramy is another name to keep an eye on. He was named "most muscular" at the Arnold Classic in March and could well play the role of spoiler as well if he's in great condition.
Mr. Olympia 2020: Dates, Schedule, Prize Money, Top Bodybuilders and Predictions
Dec 17, 2020
2012 Mr. Olympia, Phil Heath, poses for a portrait Wednesday, September 18, 2013, in Los Angeles. Heath's quest for the Olympia title is the focal point of director, Vlad Yudin's bodybuilding documentary,
The best bodybuilders in the world will converge on the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, to compete for the coveted title of Mr. Olympia 2020.
Last year, Brandon Curry became a first-time winner of the Sandow Trophy. However, he'll have to best several contenders that weren't in the field in 2019 to become a repeat champion.
That includes the return of seven-time Mr. Olympia winner Phil Heath. The 40-year-old opted to sit out last year's competition but will go for a record-tying eighth title this year.
Unfortunately, like most events this year, the contest has been affected by COVID-19. Roelly Winklaar was forced to withdraw from the competition after testing positive for the virus. Mamdouh "Big Ramy" Elssbiay tested positive for the virus earlier in the year but has received a "special invitation" to join the field and has accepted, per Roger Lockridge of Barbend.com.
Curry and Heath headline the class of competitors, but there are other top bodybuilders to consider. This is the biggest event on the bodybuilding calendar, and with $400,000 going to the winner of the men's open class, the competition will be fierce.
The week-long event will see the finals for the 212 division begin at 7 p.m. ET on Friday, December 18. The finals for Mr. Olympia, Men's physique, Bikini and Classic Physique will begin at 7 p.m. on Saturday, December 19.
Here are the top bodybuilders in the field and predictions for the final standings.
Brandon Curry
We'll start with the defending champion. Curry won the competition last year, but he has reason to be motivated to repeat as champion. It's fair to say the strength of last year's field was hurt by Phil Heath's absence.
2018 champion Shawn Rhoden was also out of the field as he continued to battle with legal issues stemming from a sexual assault allegation. Rhoden is still being held out of competition until those issues are resolved, per Derek Hall of FitnessVolt.
While Rhoden won't return this year, Curry will still need to beat two former Mr. Olympia winners and some qualified contenders to defend his crown. Dexter Jackson won the award in 2008, and William Bonac is coming off a win at the Arnold Classic in March.
Curry's win in 2019 was a bit of a come-from-nowhere story given his previous best finish at the event was fifth in 2018. Still, he's put on plenty of mass in the chest and shoulders in the lead up to the competition.
He'll need to come into the show in the best shape of his life to win.
Prediction: Third
Phil Heath
Coming back from a year off, Phil Heath is one of the top storylines of 2020's competition. He is in pursuit to join Ronnie Coleman and Lee Haney as the only eight-time winners.
However, Coleman, who knows a thing or two about winning this thing, doesn't love Heath's chances. He believes taking the time off is something that can and will affect his chances at capturing that eighth title.
"I would have been more excited last year," Coleman said, per Hall. "This year it's kind of hard to predict, where he had that whole year off and had time to relax and not be a motivated and not be as focused. It's hard to get that back. I remember when I was doing it, and I stopped. I kept saying 'I'm going to go back next year, I'm going to go back next year,' and I never made it back because I never got that mindset back."
Heath has kept his physique fairly well hidden on social media. His Instagram has been relatively quiet in the lead up to the competition, and most pictures posted online haven't revealed too much.
The fact remains that Heath is now 40 years old and hasn't won the Sandow since 2017. Coleman may have a point that Heath isn't equipped to take a year off and come back as good as ever.
Prediction Fourth
William Bonac
Last year, Brandon Curry rode the momentum of a win at the Arnold Classic to a win at Mr. Olympia. This year, William Bonac has a chance to repeat that feat.
Bonac placed second in the Arnold Classic in 2019 and followed it up with a runner-up finish at Mr. Olympia, getting beat out by Curry once again. This year he claimed victory in Columbus and could be ready to do the same in Orlando.
The 5'6" Bonac brings a lot of mass for his frame into the competition. He has to be on-point every time he enters to have a chance to win, but this time, he has been more active than both Curry and Heath in the lead up to this event, so there's a better chance he is in better form than both of them.
"The Conquerer" has a strong case to win the Sandow for the first time in his career. He doesn't appear as big as either Heath or Curry, but he has impressive symmetry and has the most upside if he shows up in great shape.
Given his performance at the Arnold Classic, there's a good chance he does that.
Prediction: First
Maui Pro Surfing Competition on Hold After Shark Attack Injures Rec Surfer
Dec 9, 2020
A surfer vaults over a wave during a tow surfing session at Praia do Norte or North Beach in Nazare, Portugal, Thursday, Oct. 29, 2020. A big swell, generated earlier in the week by Hurricane Epsilon in the North Atlantic, reached the Portuguese west coast drawing big wave surfers to Nazare. (AP Photo/Pedro Rocha)
The Maui Pro surf competition in Honolua Bay, Hawaii, which features many of the top female surfers in the world, was put on indefinite hold after a 56-year-old manwas attacked by a shark on Tuesday, three hours prior to the second day of the event, per Scott Gleeson of USA Today.
The man reportedly suffered injuries to his leg and required both CPR at the scene and surgery, according to the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources.
Looking back on an unexpected day and sending thoughts and prayers to the victim and all involved with the attack today in the Bay💙🙏The #MauiPro is on hold @wslpic.twitter.com/NbjlpcJvJQ
The World Surf League released the following statement:
There will be no competition at the Maui Pro today following a shark incident involving a recreational surfer this morning at Honolua Bay. The WSL is working with authorities and our thoughts are with the victim of this incident. The Maui Pro is on hold until further notice. pic.twitter.com/AGZSkF7wKZ
Images showed the man's surfboard with a huge bite mark.
Bay to Breakers 2020 Results: Men and Women's Top Finishers and Best Photos
Oct 2, 2020
The San Francisco skyline is seen shortly after sunrise behind the Golden Gate Bridge Tuesday, March 17, 2020, in Sausalito, Calif. About 7 million people in the San Francisco Bay Area woke up Tuesday to nearly empty highways, shuttered stores and vacant streets after officials issued an order for residents to shelter at their homes and only leave for
Somewhere, Jason Karbelk and Sarah Anderson are staging their own celebrations after posting the fastest times in the men's and women's division, respectively, in this year's Bay to Breakers.
Karbelk narrowly edged out Justin Hall for first place in theoverall competition.
Top Finishers—Men
1. Jason Karbelk, 40:20
2. Justin Hall, 40:40
3. Christopher Guerrero, 43:52
4. Charles Mullane, 44:07
5. Steven Rathel, 45:00
Top Finishers—Women
1. Sarah Anderson, 47:55
2. Monika Whitfield, 48:55
3. Honey-Lou Timonera, 49:27
4. Clara Oden, 50:13
5. Emily Lewis, 50:52
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, race officials originally pushed the event to September before finally deciding to adopt a virtual format.
The route traditionally starts at the intersection of Howard and Main St. and goes west through San Francisco, ending on the Great Highway. In addition to a jaunt around downtown, runners traverse Golden Gate Park before reaching the conclusion.
Starting Sept. 20, participants had the opportunity to complete the 12-kilometer run on their own terms. The deadline expired Friday at 8 a.m. PT.
Runners uploaded their times and shared photos upon crossing the "finish line" as well.
We've seen some pretty KOOKY costumes during the 12 Days of Running Weird! It's now Day 10 and you officially have less than 72 hours to show us your most epic costume.
The Bay to Breakers is far from the only notable race to be adversely impacted by the pandemic. For the first time in 124 years, the Boston Marathon had to scrap its plans for the annual showcase. The New York Marathon met the same fate.
Skateboarding Icon Keith Hufnagel Dies at Age 46 After Brain Cancer Diagnosis
Sep 24, 2020
A skateboarder balances his board along a wall in a skateboard park, Thursday, June 25, 2015, in Austin, Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)
Skateboarding legend Keith Hufnagel died this week, more than two years after he was diagnosed with brain cancer.
He was 46.
RIP Keith Hufnagel 🕊
Huf was one of the most prolific 90s skaters and would later open one of the most recognized skate shops, @hufworldwide. He bridged the worlds of skate, streetwear, and sneakers in an authentic way that continues to have a lasting impact today. #RIPHUFpic.twitter.com/aBReaM1tQS
HUF Worldwide, the company founded by Hufnagel, released the following statement:
"We are absolutely heartbroken to deliver the news today that HUF founder Keith Hufnagel has passed away. Keith battled brain cancer for the past 2.5 years. And though he beat the odds and fought back much longer than his diagnosis permitted, he ultimately and unfortunately lost the fight. "Keith was not only the ‘HUF’nagel in HUF. He was the heart and soul of this brand. He built and brought together a community of people like no one else could. "Keith paved the way for all of us – as a respected professional skateboarder, shop owner, brand founder, footwear and apparel designer, creative director, and industry leader. He showed us how to do it, and how do it right. "Keith loved skateboarding and the culture around it. He did things his way and did them for the right reasons. He inspired so many of us across the globe. "But above anything else, Keith loved and supported the people around him. He would do anything for his friends, family and children. He passionately wanted to see others succeed. And we all loved him for it. "Keith’s legacy will continue to live on at HUF. Today, tomorrow and forever. "Rest in peace, Keith."
Hufnagel was one of the more influential skateboarders in history, helping push the sport from a niche to widely popular in the 1990s. Along with his work on the board, Hufnagel was a skate-style innovator who pushed HUF Worldwide to become one of the most popular skate shops in the nation. The brand's slogan, "F--k It," helped define a generation of skaters for both their relaxed attitudes and their willingness to do gravity-defying stunts.
Hufnagel is survived by his wife, Mariellen, and their two children.
Tony Hawk Tweets X-Ray Photos of Gruesome Finger Injury, Says Ring Was Cut Off
Jun 10, 2020
SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 21: Pro-skater Tony Hawk on the IMDb Series “Special Skills” in Los Angeles, California. This episode of “Special Skills” airs on February 25, 2020. (Photo by Rich Polk/Getty Images for IMDb)
Skateboard legend Tony Hawk suffered a gruesome dislocated finger over the weekend that required his wedding ring to be cut off before his bones were set "to their full upright and locked position," he revealed alongside his X-rays Wednesday:
My summary of 2020 (so far): a middle finger, but make it dislocated. Thanks to Dr. Cho for putting it back where it belongs. Here’s to more healing for everyone in the other half. pic.twitter.com/EMyzbvVCLU
Hawk has suffered much worse while skating such as a broken pelvis, fractured skull and over 20 concussions, according to CNBC's Lucy Handley.
Hawk has won 10 X Games gold medals, per the event's official website, and made history there over the years:
By 25 years old, Hawk won 73 of the 103 professional contests he had participated in.
Skateboarder Sky Brown Released from Hospital After Being Injured in Ramp Trick
Jun 3, 2020
BERLIN, GERMANY - FEBRUARY 17: Skateboarder Sky Brown poses at the Mercedes Benz Building prior to the 2020 Laureus World Sports Awards on February 17, 2020 in Berlin, Germany. (Photo by Simon Hofmann/Getty Images for Laureus)
Skateboard prodigy Sky Brown was released from the hospital Wednesday after receiving treatment for a fractured skull, broken hand, broken wrist and black eye suffered off a vert ramp May 28, according to TMZ Sports.
The 11-year-old posted a YouTube video showing the crash before panning to Brown in her California hospital bed and calling it "my worst fall" while promising to "push even harder":
Brown's caption for the video credited her helmet and arm with saving her life. "This will not stop me," she wrote. "I am going for gold in Tokyo 2021."
Skateboarding legend Tony Hawk posted a photo to Instagram with Brown upon her hospital release, saying the following:
"Last Thursday Sky Brown had a horrific, traumatic crash. From my perspective and in many ways, it was the worst fall one could take from a vert ramp. The situation was dire and we were all worried sick, but nothing compared to the heartache her family endured that day. I didn't want to share this news before her family did because it is her story to tell. I have been thankful to have received updates from her father every day since, and it is with great surprise and HUGE relief to let you know that she is out of the hospital and headed home today (this photo was taken on her detour for ice cream).
"Her accelerated healing is nothing short of a miracle. Stay strong, Sky. Thank you for inspiring us with your unbroken spirit. And please take your time getting back to full capacities… we'll gladly wait for you."
Skateboarding will make its Olympic debut in Tokyo. The Games were originally scheduled for this summer but postponed to summer 2021 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Brown, who was born in Japan, won the bronze medal at the 2019 World Skateboarding Championships for Great Britain.
Sky Brown, 11-Year-Old Skateboarder, Hospitalized with Injuries from Ramp Trick
Jun 2, 2020
BERLIN, GERMANY - FEBRUARY 16: Skateboarder Sky Brown skates during the Laureus Sport for Good Skateboard Visit prior to the 2020 Laureus World Sports Awards at the Nike SB Shelter on February 16, 2020 in Berlin, Germany. (Photo by Boris Streubel/Getty Images for Laureus)
Skateboarder Sky Brown was hospitalized after suffering brutal injuries while attempting a ramp trick Thursday, according to TMZ Sports.
The 11-year-old reportedly suffered skull fractures, a broken wrist, broken hand and black eye.
"Sky had the gnarliest fall she's ever had and is lucky to be alive," her father, Stewart, told BBC Sport.
Brown provided video of the incident on Instagram, along with a positive message for her fans:
"I know a lot of people are worried about me, but Don’t worry, I’m Okay. 👌🏼❤️🙏🏻I’m excited to come back even stronger and even tougher. My heart wants to go so hard right now🔥I’m just waiting for my body to catch up 👊🏼Thank you everyone for sending your love, messages and supporting me. I’m sorry to make you worry. I’m gonna be just fine."
Brown was hoping to be the youngest Olympian in Great Britain history this summer before the Tokyo Games were postponed to 2021 because of the coronavirus.
Even at a young age, she is already among the best in her sport, ranking third in the world in women's park competitions. She earned a bronze medal at the 2019 World Skateboarding Championship.
