Teenage Skateboard Phenom Inspires Girls to Shred

Australian skateboarding is witnessing a surge in female participation, particularly among young girls. This trend coincides with the rise of teenage prodigy Chloe Covell, a 14-year-old Olympic hopeful making waves in the sport.

From Local Streets to Global Stages:

Covell’s passion for skateboarding ignited at the young age of six. Now, with dreams of competing in the 2024 Paris Olympics, she’s more than just chasing a childhood fantasy. Her talent is undeniable, boasting a bronze medal at the 2022 X Games Chiba and a historic gold medal at X Games California, making her the youngest female X Games gold medalist ever.

Shifting Perceptions:

The skateboarding scene is no longer dominated by boys. Social media plays a crucial role in this cultural shift. Platforms like Instagram showcase the skills and achievements of female skaters like Covell, inspiring a new generation of girls to pick up a board.

Growth in Female Participation:

Tania Paton, co-owner of a Sydney skate shop, observes a rise in young girls and even adults, particularly mothers, taking an interest in skateboarding. This trend is echoed by Nigel Cameron of the Totem Collective, which runs free skateboarding programs. They’ve witnessed a 26% increase in female participation since 2020.

Creating a Welcoming Environment:

For girls entering the skateboarding world, finding female coaches or girls-only events can be a game-changer. Caroline McDonald, whose daughter Mila skates, highlights the welcoming nature of the skateboarding community. Even when Mila is the only girl at the park, she’s readily included by her peers.

A Role Model Emerges:

Covell serves as a role model for aspiring female skaters. Young fans approach her for photos, and she recognizes the impact she has on encouraging others to embrace the sport.

The Future of Skateboarding:

The upcoming Paris Olympics holds the potential to further ignite girls’ interest in skateboarding. With talented athletes like Covell, the future of the sport looks bright and inclusive. The wait for Covell’s Olympic qualification might be suspenseful, but one thing’s certain: she’s already leaving a lasting mark on skateboarding.