Skateboarding has always had a certain raw, unfiltered energy, and the “999 Challenge” perfectly embodies that spirit. This isn’t your typical skate competition; it’s a glorious mashup of skateboarding, hotdogs, and beer, proving that sometimes the most fun comes from the simplest, most outrageous ideas. The challenge takes the spirit of a backyard barbeque and throws in some skateboarding for good measure.
The concept is simple, taking inspiration from the baseball diamond’s boozy “999” game involving hotdogs, beers, and innings. In the skate version, the innings are replaced with tre flips, turning this into a test of skill, endurance, and maybe stomach capacity. It’s a unique challenge designed for those who love skateboarding, but aren’t afraid to get a bit messy and ridiculous. A call was put out, and within a mere 48 hours, a crew of eight eager, yet unknown skaters were gathered along with 100 hotdogs, an excessive supply of Bud Light from a local bodega, and a grand prize of $999 thanks to Element Skateboards. What transpired next can only be described as one of the most glorious, low-key sporting events in skateboarding history.
This wasn’t about ramps, big-name sponsors, or pro skaters. It was all about a grill, a cooler full of ice, and flatground tre flips, creating an authentic skateboarding experience. The event highlights the pure fun and camaraderie that can be found within the skate community, proving you don’t need fancy venues or big budgets to have an amazing time. If you want a piece of this unforgettable event you can grab your own 999 Challenge gear Here.
The 999 Challenge was the perfect combination of absurdity and skill, highlighting the fun-loving side of skate culture. The combination of food, drinks, and technical tricks created a spectacle that was both hilarious and impressive. The challenge is a testament to the idea that skateboarding doesn’t always have to be serious, and that some of the best times can be had when you’re just having fun with your friends. The essence of the 999 Challenge lies in its simplicity and its embrace of the unconventional, making it a standout event in the skateboarding scene.
A skater mid-tre flip with onlookers in the background
This type of event is exactly what skateboarding needs more of, focusing on the community and the pure joy of skating. The 999 Challenge is a prime example of how skateboarding can bring people together, no matter their skill level. It proves that with a little creativity, you can make skateboarding accessible and enjoyable for everyone. The idea is to have fun, hang out with friends, and maybe learn a new trick or two along the way.
A different angle of a skater doing a tre flip at the 999 challenge
The event was documented with photos by Greg Navarro, Cheyenne Arnold, and Josh Katz, adding to its raw, authentic feel. The videos, filmed and edited by Greg Navarro, with an intro by Ben Komins, captured the essence of the challenge perfectly. These visuals provide a unique and exciting view into the heart of this memorable skateboarding spectacle. The 999 Challenge is a reminder that skateboarding is about more than just the tricks and the competitions; it’s about the people, the experiences, and the unique culture.
A low-angle shot of a skater doing a tre flip
The 999 Challenge is a perfect example of how to create an event that truly embodies the spirit of skateboarding. It’s all about the fun, the camaraderie, and the shared love of the sport. The event’s success proves that sometimes, the most memorable moments come from the simplest of ideas. This combination of skating, hotdogs, and beers serves as a reminder of what makes skateboarding such a unique and vibrant culture. It’s an inclusive event where anyone can participate and enjoy the energy and excitement of the skate community.
A shot of several participants at the 999 challenge
A side view of a skater doing a tre flip at the challenge
A wide shot of the event, with skaters and spectators
A skater completing a tre flip during the 999 challenge
Another angle of a skater performing a tre flip at the challenge
The 999 Challenge wasn’t just a skate event; it was a celebration of the raw, unfiltered fun that skateboarding can offer. By mixing the thrill of landing tre flips with the laid-back atmosphere of a backyard barbecue, they created an unforgettable experience for everyone involved. It’s the kind of event that reminds us why we love skateboarding, showing that it’s not always about the serious competitions or the perfect tricks, but also the people, the fun, and the memories. The 999 Challenge is an excellent reminder that skateboarding can be as fun and inclusive as you make it.
Filmed and Edited by: Greg Navarro
Intro by: Ben Komins
Photos by: Greg Navarro, Cheyenne Arnold, and Josh Katz
