Skateboarding Icon Tony Hawk Ramps Up Funds to Build a Skate Park in the Memory of a Compatriot Skateboarder

The iconic Tony Hawk is a superstar athlete whose name became synonymous with the sport of skateboarding. The 54-year-old ‘Birdman’ is not only an outstanding skateboarder, but also a philanthropist who has contributed to many causes that took the front seat over the years. From establishing his organization, ‘The Tony Hawk Foundation’ in 2002, to funding the growth and development of nearly 700 skate parks across the U.S., Hawk has bridged every gap that existed between budding athletes and their dreams. Interestingly, the skateboarder once again made it to the headlines for his benevolence.

On 10th January, Tyre Nichols, a skateboarding prodigy, died due to a police assault. Following the demise of the young athlete, many came forward to protest against the officers who were responsible for Nichols’ death. While some expressed their rage online, others helped the skateboarder’s family grapple with the situation. Tony Hawk joined in to gather the alms needed, and help the athlete’s family financially. 

Tony Hawk to donate photo proceeds to help Tyre Nichols’ family

As per a tweet, the Birdman will donate the proceeds of autographed photos of himself and BMX rider, Rick Thorne to raise finances for Tyre Nichols’ memorial fund. Detailing the plans of Nichols’ trust, Hawk stated that it “includes plans to build a public skatepark in his honor; as our world continues to grieve his loss”.

Expressing his heartfelt tribute to the skateboarder, the 54-year-old further added, “He was a talented skater among other admirable traits. Let’s keep his legacy alive”. The photos can be purchased on Rick Thorne’s official website called, ‘Rick Throne- The Biker in Black’. 

A 1000 copies of Hawk’s photo proceeds will be available on the website, each for $30. As per Thorne’s website, half of the funds raised will be donated to Nichols’ memorial fund “to help his family out, and to build a memorial skate park in his name”.

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Clearly, Hawk and Thorne are generously contributing towards building a landmark to honor Nichols’ love for skateboarding. Not just that, after the unfortunate demise of the young athlete, people crowded the streets to seek justice.

What happened to Tyre Nichols?

Tyre Nichols was a 29-year-old Tennessee-based skateboarder and a FedEx employee. On 7th January, five Memphis Police Department officers stopped him on the suspicion of traffic violations. The surveillance video showed that the policemen repeatedly punched, kicked, and pummeled him with a baton while he was screaming in pain. However, Nichols didn’t die on the spot. In fact, the skateboarder passed away three days later in the hospital while fighting for his life.

Following the incident, many people flocked to the streets to protest against the Memphis police department. However, the offending policemen have been fired since the incident was reported. While some people raised their voices for justice, many organizations came forward to help the athlete’s family. Tony Hawk, for his part, brought the much needed traction, to bring peace to a disheartened community. 

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