I appreciate that you shared your honest thoughts about Andy Mac and how he acted in that car ride. They felt measured without being over critical.
And I really like how you were able to touch on ageing in the industry and the different sides of what a pro skaters career can look like, while still making the piece a cohesive narrative.
The idea of 3 generations of pros and soon-to-be pros intersecting in a bizarre car ride is hysterical. Great piece.
I go back and forth on when skaters should retire and if they’re depriving the next generation of opportunity. Seems like legends budgets have been carved out, catering to a spendy and nostalgic older demographic. If a pro can maintain their middle class living for an extra 5-10 years, godspeed to them.
Thanks Josh! And yeah, I totally go back and forth as well. I love to see the OG's get supported while they keep putting stuff out, but I also think it's sad how many incredible skaters never really get a chance because they can't get a big shoe contract. I've never worked behind the scenes at any big company, so I'm curious if there actually are "legends" budgets or if the legends are just included in the men's skate team budgets. My hope is that there are separate categories that don't conflict.
A really interesting and engaging read, Walker.
I appreciate that you shared your honest thoughts about Andy Mac and how he acted in that car ride. They felt measured without being over critical.
And I really like how you were able to touch on ageing in the industry and the different sides of what a pro skaters career can look like, while still making the piece a cohesive narrative.
Thanks for sharing :)
The idea of 3 generations of pros and soon-to-be pros intersecting in a bizarre car ride is hysterical. Great piece.
I go back and forth on when skaters should retire and if they’re depriving the next generation of opportunity. Seems like legends budgets have been carved out, catering to a spendy and nostalgic older demographic. If a pro can maintain their middle class living for an extra 5-10 years, godspeed to them.
Thanks Josh! And yeah, I totally go back and forth as well. I love to see the OG's get supported while they keep putting stuff out, but I also think it's sad how many incredible skaters never really get a chance because they can't get a big shoe contract. I've never worked behind the scenes at any big company, so I'm curious if there actually are "legends" budgets or if the legends are just included in the men's skate team budgets. My hope is that there are separate categories that don't conflict.
Never knew a Canadian could exhibit such kook behavior. Andy's a rare one!
Thanks for sharing your unique perspective and measured criticism
No way…finally a new post!!!
I promise to try to post more haha