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Contestant: PR-116
From: Leeds, West Yorkshire, England
Division: Professional
Sponsored by: Powell Peralta, Yabai Clothing
Age: 30
Skating: 20 years
Joe was around 10 when he picked up skateboarding, and still remembers his first board. “It was a cheap one from a sports shop, that had a terminator graphic on it.” It was on that board that Joe and his friends learned the basics skating on their neighbourhood streets. His discovery of freestyle came from seeing Rodney Mullen videos in the Tony Hawk’s game series. Years later, Joe became more interested in freestyle after seeing Mullens video parts, and further more from watching other freestylers in the early days of Youtube videos, such as Joe Flemke, Tim Bryne, Stoke Stroud and Chris Castle. Joe was also really influenced by the video parts and skate styles of Daewon Song and Mike Vallely. Joe studied at Leeds College of Tech and picked up a national diploma in print media. “The course was good and I learned about everything to do with printing; designing, using print machines and post press production. I was in the print business for a few years, but it isn’t something I’m doing at the moment.” He went on to say, “I do a few bits and bobs that get me by, but basically I live and breathe skating.” One day Andy Anderson discovered Joe’s skating through an Instagram video and passed along to the boys at Powell Peralta, who ended up sponsoring him. “ I’m truly stoked, they appreciate what I do, and to be supported by them!” Although skating is his life he also enjoys, filming and editing, music, movies, exploring nature and interesting places, hiking, cycling.”Ive always enjoyed the outdoors and exploring, especially being around nature. Nice fresh air, appreciating the stillness, the atmosphere and observing wildlife too.” He avoids using public transport as much as possible, preferring to cycle or use his cruiser board. “When cycling or cruising you can find new skate spots on the journey, save a lot money on travel fares, set off to the destination when you want to, and always avoid any delayed or canceled transport. If its too far or in another city, I’ll take a train.”
Joe said, “This will be my first time at the World Round-Up. I’ve seen a lot of media of it over the years, it looks like an amazing event and gathering of so many skaters I’ve been stoked on and known online for years.“
RECENT CONTEST HISTORY:
2018 World Championships in Japan: 10th Place Pro Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BYUJOYsIPj4&feature=youtu.be |