‘The whole city has got my back’: Kelowna skateboarder makes it into Tony Hawk’s semi-finals

A Kelowna skateboarder is still in the running to become Tony Hawk’s Skatepark Hero.

Despite competing against skateboarders with over 10,000 followers on social media, Nuge Bird has made it into the semi-finals of the international competition based on the people’s choice.

“It’s blown my mind how much support I’ve been getting from the city,” Bird told NowMedia.

“I am just a father still trying to reach my potential and become a well-functioning adult that skateboards, and the whole city has got my back it seems.”

Bird told the public that he would roll into the bowl at Ben Lee Skatepark blindfolded if he were to make it this far, and he is planning to do just that on Saturday evening.

“Who knows what next I’ll do blindfolded,” he said.

The Kelowna skateboarder is sponsored by Forever Redd, an Indigenous-owned clothing company, and he teaches skateboarding and parkour to children and adults.

Tony Hawk’s Skatepark Hero has skateboarders of all styles and skill levels from around the globe competing for $10,000 and an opportunity to skate with the legend himself.

The competition supports The Skatepark Project, which has been helping underserved communities create safe and inclusive public skateparks for youth since 2002.

Those wanting to support Bird can use their free daily vote by verifying their identity with a Facebook account, or they can donate money for votes.

All votes for Nuge Bird can be made here.

Voting for the final eight ends on July 13 at 7 pm.