The Birdman

Tony Hawk, aka "The Birdman", aka "The Hawk", aka "the best skateboarder ever," talked to three reporters after the legends vert jam session ended Sunday around noon.

It was eight years ago that Hawk crossed over into mainstream media when he landed the first ever 900-degree spin on a vert ramp during the X Games in 1999. I can't believe it was that long ago. I could have sworn that was three or four years ago. And apparently neither could Tony when I reminded him it was eight years ago.

"No," I can't believe it was that long, and it's still hard" to do.

Everyone knows Tony Hawk, even a lot non-skating people know who Tony Hawk is, but not everyone at the X Games (especially not the 10 or 12 year olds, I think) know who Mike McGill, Christian Hosoi, Duane Peters or even Caballero are or were.

"I think it's important for them too see the history and see the progression of how far it's gone, especially (because) right after we skate the absolutely newest best guys come and skate. And they see how much the level has been raised, but also were the influences where. I think it's important for kids to understand that and appreciate it."

I agree.

-- Jaime Cárdenas