Legendary skateboarder Tony Hawk is actively lobbying for the inclusion of **Tony Hawk Vert Skateboarding** as an exhibition sport at the upcoming Los Angeles 2028 Summer Olympics. Hawk, a global icon in vertical skateboarding, is working diligently to see the high-flying discipline, characterized by its aerial tricks on halfpipes, showcased on the Olympic stage. While it’s too late for ‘vert’ to be a medal sport in Los Angeles, Hawk is optimistic that a successful exhibition could pave the way for its future inclusion, building on the momentum of **Tony Hawk Vert Skateboarding**.
The Push for **Tony Hawk Vert Skateboarding** at LA28
Tony Hawk, widely regarded as the greatest ‘vert’ skater of all time, has become a persistent advocate, describing himself as “the bug in their ear at every turn, at every event.” Organizers are reportedly “making strides in possibly getting it as an exhibition sport at LA28,” indicating progress in his efforts for **Tony Hawk Vert Skateboarding**. Hawk believes that ‘vert’ skateboarding offers a unique and spectacular element that is currently missing from the Olympic program. “I do feel like it’s a missed opportunity for them because as exciting as park skating is, it’s not what vertical skateboarding is,” Hawk stated. “It’s high flying, it’s big spins, and it’s the kind of thing that people have gotten used to seeing on the X Games.” He has even offered his portable ramp to organizers, hoping to serve as the “vert ambassador” for the **Los Angeles Olympics**.
Skateboarding’s Olympic Journey and **Tony Hawk Vert Skateboarding**
Skateboarding made its Olympic debut at the 2020 Tokyo Games and is also featured in the 2024 Paris Games, however, only the park and street disciplines have been included. ‘Vert’ skateboarding, which has deep historical roots in the sport, originating from ‘pool riding’ in the late 1970s and consistently featured in prestigious events like the X Games, has been notably absent. Hawk argues that **vertical skateboarding** provides a clear, easily understandable spectacle for a broad audience, with breathtaking aerial maneuvers and a rich history that aligns well with the Olympic movement’s values. He suggests that a strong exhibition performance in Los Angeles could capture the attention of the Olympic audience and secure **Tony Hawk Vert Skateboarding**’s place in future Summer Games. This endeavor significantly impacts **skateboarding history**.
Sepulveda Basin: A Historic Setting for **Olympic Exhibition Sport**
The skateboarding competitions for the **LA 2028 Olympics** are slated to take place at the Sepulveda Basin Recreation Area. This vast parkland in the San Fernando Valley holds significant historical importance for skating culture, with roots dating back to the 1980s. The choice of this venue underscores the connection between the burgeoning Olympic sport and its cultural origins in Southern California, making it a fitting location for **Tony Hawk Vert Skateboarding** if it achieves its exhibition status.
Beyond the Ramp: Hawk’s Broader Impact
Beyond his advocacy for **Tony Hawk Vert Skateboarding**’s Olympic inclusion, Tony Hawk continues to leverage his platform for other important causes. Inspired by his father’s battle with late-stage lung cancer, Hawk is a prominent spokesperson for Cancerguard, promoting multi-cancer early-detection blood tests. This dual focus highlights Hawk’s ability to connect with multiple generations through both his athletic legacy and his commitment to public health awareness, making him a respected and influential figure across diverse fields.
Current Trends and Future Prospects for **Tony Hawk Vert Skateboarding**
The push for **Tony Hawk Vert Skateboarding**’s inclusion is part of a broader discussion surrounding the evolution of sports in the Olympics. As **Los Angeles Olympics** prepares to host its third Olympic Games, the LA28 Organizing Committee has worked to utilize existing facilities and embrace sports that resonate with contemporary audiences. The inclusion of new sports like flag football, cricket, and squash, alongside the permanent fixtures like park and street skateboarding, reflects this trend. Hawk’s efforts represent a significant current development in the ongoing narrative of skateboarding’s integration into the global sporting spectacle. The success of his lobbying for an exhibition **halfpipe skateboarding** event could mark a pivotal moment, potentially bringing this foundational and spectacular discipline into the Olympic fold for years to come. This news is a trending topic in the sports world, highlighting the dynamic nature of Olympic programming and the enduring influence of skateboarding pioneers, especially in the context of **Tony Hawk Vert Skateboarding**.
