Sk8 Attack // Stephanie Gengotti

Sk8 Attack
© Stephanie Gengotti

Sk8 Attack is a collection of portraits featuring international skate Pros, real celebrities or soon to become, that have a strong influence on the new generations of young skaters. These Athletes, who have already collected important victories, are competing for a new important goal - qualification in the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympic Games. This series of images was taken at ‘The Spot’, one of the biggest skateparks in Europe situated in Ostia, the seaside city by Rome. ‘The Spot’ inaugurated two years ago, has been chosen to host World Skate Championship Tour in October 2023.

The evolution of skateboarding has been remarkable since its first appearance, when in the 50’s California surfers built up the first asphalt boards, to ride on flat days and get around to the empty backyard pools of the rich’s houses, where the Z-Boys in the ‘70s used to brake in and shred. In 2020 skateboarding was recognized as an Olympic discipline.

In the mind of most people, skateboarding has long symbolized a rebellious and anarchic lifestyle, an antisystem counterculture. Skaters were mostly viewed as outsiders and skate was absolutely not considered a sport, but a way of learning how to redefine the world around you. However, in just the last decade, a noticeable shift has taken place within the public consciousness and cities started constructing skateparks to engage the youth in a creative, open air discipline.

The level of training and dedication has intensified significantly. Athletes invest months creating lines or perfecting new tricks, aerial maneuvers have evolved astonishingly, progressing from 180° to 900° up to 1080° spins, a record achieved by an 11-year-old prodigy. Amidst the intensifying competition to ascend the rankings, a spirit of unity prevails among the athletes, hailing from every corner of the globe, they come together during various stages of world competitions, showing great sporting spirit.

A noteworthy trend is the growing prominence of young athletes, with some beginning their skateboarding journey at age 4 and emerging among international champions by age 12. The essence of skateboarding transcends gender, promoting inclusivity and equality, because female and male compete on the same tough ground.

Although some of its original anarchic charm may have waned, skateboarding has undoubtedly achieved widespread popularity. The contests have become real acrobatic shows, which attract huge audiences. Sponsors vie to scout new talents. From local shops to major corporations, skaters receive skate equipment, branded clothing and dress head to toe with the most stylish looks, creating trends among young and old.

Its popularity is skyrocketing, drawing a community of over 80 million people of all ages, who love riding a wooden board on four wheels. Yet, amidst these transformations, the real essence of skateboarding will always be about: Passion, Freedom, Fun.

click to view the complete set of images in the archive