A Legendary Piece of Skateboarding History
In a landmark moment for skateboarding enthusiasts and collectors alike, the skateboard Tony Hawk used to land the first-ever 900 in competition has sold for an astonishing $1.152 million at auction. This sale, conducted by Julien's Auctions, took place on September 23 at the Loews Hollywood Hotel in Los Angeles, with online bidding also available. The final price more than doubled the pre-sale estimate of $500,000 to $700,000, setting a new record for skateboarding memorabilia.
The board, a Birdhouse Falcon 2 outfitted with Fury brand trucks and unmarked wheels, was ridden by Hawk during his iconic performance at the 1999 X Games in San Francisco. This historic trick, which involved two and a half mid-air rotations, cemented Hawk's status as a generational hero in action sports. Alongside the skateboard, other items from Hawk's 'The 900 Collection' were auctioned, including his helmet for $115,200, shoes for $64,000, and kneepads for $57,600, bringing the total for these items to nearly $1.4 million.
Impact Beyond the Auction Block
The significance of this auction extends beyond the staggering financial figures. A portion of the proceeds from the sale benefits The Skatepark Project, a nonprofit founded by Tony Hawk that has supported the creation of over 700 skateparks worldwide, particularly in underserved communities. This charitable aspect adds a layer of meaning to the record-breaking sale, aligning with Hawk's ongoing commitment to growing the sport and providing safe spaces for young skaters.
Julien's Auctions highlighted the cultural importance of 'The 900 Collection,' describing it as a landmark assembly of artifacts that tell the definitive story of modern skateboarding. The auction house expressed pride in partnering with Hawk, noting that the collection offers fans and collectors a rare opportunity to own a piece of his storied legacy. The overwhelming response to the auction underscores the enduring impact of Hawk's achievements on both the sport and popular culture.
A Cultural Icon's Enduring Legacy
Tony Hawk's influence on skateboarding is undeniable, and the sale of his 900 skateboard serves as a testament to his lasting legacy. Landing the 900 at the 1999 X Games was a defining moment, not just for Hawk but for the entire sport, pushing the boundaries of what was thought possible. The fact that this piece of equipment fetched such an extraordinary sum reflects how deeply that moment resonated with fans across generations.
As posts on X indicate, there is widespread admiration for Hawk's contributions, with many users expressing awe at the auction results and appreciation for the proceeds supporting The Skatepark Project. While the identity of the buyer remains undisclosed, the hope is that they value the board's historical significance to skateboarding culture. This auction not only celebrates a pivotal achievement but also reinforces Hawk's role as an ambassador for the sport, inspiring future generations to take up skating.