Chiba, Japan – Skateboarding icon Tony Hawk, now 55, may have been a highlight for the crowd at X Games Chiba, but it was the Japanese athletes who truly stole the show during the action-packed weekend. As the X Games returned to Japan for its second year at Zozo Marine Stadium, the country’s skateboarders and BMX riders dominated the competition, thrilling fans despite rain impacting several events.
During a press event on Saturday, Hawk praised Japanese skateboarders, saying, “I think Japanese skaters are among the best. They’re the most progressive, consistent, and exciting. Japanese skateboarding has come of age; they’re the ones to beat now.” His words rang true as Japanese athletes claimed most of the skateboarding medals.
Japan’s women skateboarders led the charge, capturing four out of six medals awarded in the competition’s opening events. Cocona Hiraki took gold in the women’s skateboard park event, with fellow Japanese skater Yurin Fuji securing bronze. In women’s skateboard street, Momiji Nishiya and Rizu Akama earned silver and bronze, respectively, as Brazil’s Rayssa Leal took the top spot.
The men’s skateboarding events saw young Japanese talent shine as well. Thirteen-year-old Ginwoo Onodera made history by becoming the youngest gold medalist in the men’s street competition with a stunning performance. Hawk himself competed in the men’s vert best trick event, where he took several attempts to land a trick before celebrating with the crowd.
The event was a showcase of action sports at their finest. BMX riders wowed the audience, with Japan’s Yu Katagiri securing gold in BMX flatland, while international stars like Ryan Williams and American Nyjah Huston added to the excitement with jaw-dropping stunts. Moto X athletes also captivated spectators with a series of breathtaking flips and tricks.
While weather conditions forced the cancellation of several final rounds, including skateboarding and BMX events, athletes still delivered thrilling performances. American skater Ruby Lilley, who took silver in the women’s skateboard park, noted how Japanese skateboarders pushed the level of competition, calling them “super inspiring.”
The X Games Chiba marks a key moment in the growth of action sports in Japan. Athletes were confined to bubbles during the 2022 edition due to COVID-19 restrictions, but with those lifted, the event felt more vibrant, allowing participants to explore the local culture and the bustling streets of Tokyo.
Although the Olympics have introduced some of these action sports to a global audience, the X Games remains the pinnacle for many athletes. Brad Florian, X Games Director of Global Business Operations, emphasized that the event offers athletes a chance to build their legacy, pointing to legends like Tony Hawk who rose to stardom through the competition.
Despite the challenges posed by rain, organizers and athletes alike are optimistic about the future of the X Games in Japan, hoping the event will continue to grow in popularity and become a staple in the nation’s sports culture.
As Japan continues to produce top-tier talent in skateboarding and BMX, the country’s influence in action sports is set to only increase, with its athletes pushing the boundaries and inspiring the next generation of competitors.
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