Tony Hawk, the legendary skateboarder, changed the landscape of the sport with his exceptional skills and passion to take skateboarding places. A lively discussion with Jason Ellis, an Australian radio personality and a former professional skateboarder, on his podcast, reveals the story of how Hawk’s Honda Civic inspired the Australian to skateboard.

Hawk set an unprecedented trend by taking the small wheels using big wheels. The then 16-year-old champion bought his dad’s car so that he could visit the skate parks built in South California and attend more competitions. That’s indeed a brilliant idea. But how did Hawk’s car influence Ellis a.k.a Wolf to take up the sport?

Wolf thought that skateboarding was a lucrative job

The legendary skateboarder turned professional at 14. Thereafter, Hawk conceived ways to nurture his skills and popularize the sport. In 1977, he spent his savings from prize money to purchase his dad’s Honda Civic. The podcaster was impressed with the number of money skateboarders made when he learned about Hawk owning the car. “It’s going places. He’s going places,” he exclaimed.

Besides, he said, “I knew of these other 20 people that lived in America that I’m pretty sure didn’t work they just skateboarded.” Although there were no skateboarders in the entire country, the Australian resolved to become a pro.

READ MORE: As a Child Superstar, American Legend Tony Hawk Used a Weird List of Superstitions

As aspired, in 1985, 17-year-old Ellis set out to the U.S. to begin a career in skateboarding. He made great strides in the sport and also set a Guinness World Record in 2001 for the biggest drop, jumping into a 70-foot skateboard ramp. He retired from the sport in 2005.

Tony Hawk won’t stop skateboarding

It’s been more than seven months since Hawk fractured his femur. He has not only recovered but also recently attempted his first kick flip since the injury. His doctor helped him to warm up and work on the flip. The whole team supporting him in the recovery journey rejoiced in his victory.

Besides skateboarding, $140 million worth, Hawk is also famous for his movies, events, endorsements, and blockbuster video games business. What do you think about Hawk and his adventures with the sport? Share in the comments.

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