The Evolution of Skateboarding: From Streets to Olympics
Pierre André Senizergues, a 61-year-old skateboarding legend, embodies the spirit of skate culture while navigating its evolution into the Olympic arena. As skateboarding made its Olympic debut in Tokyo 2020, it sparked debates among purists about the sport losing its rebellious edge. Senizergues acknowledges the dilemma, stating, “Skateboarders who go to the Olympics have their ass between two chairs a bit.” Despite this tension, he sees the Olympics as a natural progression for skateboarding, especially with events like the X Games paving the way.
Paris 2024: A New Era for Urban Sports
With the 2024 Olympic Games approaching, Paris is set to showcase skateboarding prominently, with events planned at the iconic Place de la Concorde. This choice not only highlights the sport but also pays homage to Senizergues’s roots, having started his journey just a stone's throw away in 1977. He emphasizes the need to respect skateboarding's culture and authenticity, ensuring that skaters feel at home in the Olympic environment. The collaboration with Tony Estanguet and the organizing committee aims to create a genuine experience for athletes and fans alike.
Sustainable Innovation in Skateboarding
As skateboarding gains traction in the Olympic spotlight, Senizergues is also focusing on sustainability through his brand Etnies. The company has developed a specialized shoe for top skater Aurélien Giraud, designed to withstand the extreme impacts of skateboarding. This innovative footwear reflects Etnies’ commitment to environmental responsibility, with initiatives like “one pair bought, one tree planted,” resulting in thousands of trees planted across various countries. Senizergues hopes that the upcoming Olympics will inspire more indoor skate facilities in Paris, fostering a thriving skate culture in the city.
- In addition to the excitement surrounding skateboarding, the 2024 Summer Olympics are set to commence in Paris on July 26, with a focus on showcasing the city and its residents. The Games will feature 10,500 athletes competing in 32 sports at stunning venues throughout the capital, including beach volleyball at the Eiffel Tower and archery at the Invalides. As Paris embraces the Olympic spirit, book recommendations related to the Games are also gaining popularity, providing readers with insights into the event and the city itself.
