Gray 1 Casey Gray Dr. Stephanie Volf Memoir 04 October 2019 Blond Johns I watched in horror as my best friend shed defeated tears in front of an audience of fifty. Although I’ve never been one to gloat over a victory, I admit I felt vindicated. Mason’s demeanor throughout the entire skateboarding event had been incredibly arrogant, regardless of his advanced level of skill. Vicarious embarrassment in the crowd was obvious as they witnessed Mason’s tears falling faster than a skinny kid sliding on the tallest slide at Waterville. At nine years old, my father and I moved to Gulf Shores, Alabama, a mecca for skateboarders looking to compete. It was there that my passion for the sport flourished. The skate park became my second home, and I spent more time there than the place I slept every night. As I exhausted myself getting to know the large group of excellent skaters, I was naturally drawn to Mason, who was just a year older than I, and he became my best friend. Mason lived in an apartment within walking distance from the skate park, so he had many years of skateboarding experience. In contrast, I had been refining my skill set for just a few months before the move, although I certainly binge-watched Tony Hawk clips and mastered countless PlayStation skateboarding games. My inexperience seldom affected my confidence, however, because I have always thoroughly enjoyed a challenge, especially if I am passionate about the task. Receiving attention from a local surf and skateboard shop, Mason’s skill level at such a young age allowed him to obtain a sponsorship offer. In the world of extreme sports, such as Gray 2 skateboarding, a sponsorship delivers perks and monetary benefits to an athlete in return for representation of the brand. Brand representation ranges from wearing selected merchandise to attaching the company’s name to yours during competitions and events. This was exciting to me because if he could receive the offer, I realized with some more practice, I could too. The goal of obtaining a sponsorship from the same shop, Blonde John’s, became my number one priority. By summer’s end, encouraged by Mason’s sponsorship offer, my goal was within reach. John, the owner of Blond John’s, became very familiar with me, and he frequently visited the skate park, while Mason and I returned the favor by shopping at his store. Developing a rapport with John greatly improved my confidence. Having an August birthday prevented me from entering the youth competition for the majority of the summer, because I did not meet the age requirement. Finally, after celebrating my birthday and turning ten, I was eligible to compete in the final summer event of the year. Naturally, my excitement was palpable, and I anticipated the rush I would feel during my first opportunity to display my talent. Both Mason and I were ready to showcase our improved tricks to the audience, especially John. This became an extremely significant skate competition. One by one, the remaining competitors were eliminated throughout each round. Mason was still regarded as the favorite, and he arrogantly played the part, his attitude clearly showing he’d already won the competition and represented the local skate shops like a champion. Approaching the final round, tensions were high, and a lot was on the line. A prize of one hundred dollars would be awarded to the winner, and to my ten-year-old self, that was enough cash to buy anything I wanted. Suddenly, Mason and I were the only remaining competitors and it was time for my final trick. I knew I had to land and complete it flawlessly to have a shot at victory. I chose a kickflip Gray 3 off the side of the ramp embankment and executed my move perfectly. In response, Mason gave a slight smile and mocking laugh - one of the cockiest displays I had ever seen. Compounding his soon to be short-lived arrogance, he attempted a trick that was entirely beyond his ability. Completely botching the futile move, he destroyed the lead he possessed all game and his only opportunity to seal the victory. Before the eyes of his audience, tears began to fall from his, signaling the end to a thrilling competition. Instead of shaking his best friend’s hand, Mason displayed emotions that made me understand the importance of learning how to accept a fair defeat.
