Recently, the skateboarding world was surprised to see Keith Hardy, also known as Shredmaster Keith, take his talents to Bulgaria. Even more unexpected was his collaboration with Stinky Socks, a brand owned by Risto Petkov. Petkov reached out to share a video edit of Keith skating through his home country.
Bulgaria, a nation steeped in history nestled in Europe near Turkey and Greece, was once part of the Soviet Union’s Iron Curtain. Although it has since become a free country and joined the EU, some remnants of its post-Soviet past remain visible.
Keith, a New York native who calls LES Skatepark home, looked comfortable navigating the Balkan plazas and enjoying the local culture. The video offers a refreshing change of scenery, moving away from the typical New York skate spots and focusing on Keith’s skills as the “Shredmaster” in a new context.
The edit showcases Keith’s skateboarding journey through towns like Stara Zagora, Haskovo, and the capital city, Sofia. Below are some of the highlights from his trip:
Keith Hardy skating in Bulgaria, captured with a wide-angle perspective showcasing an urban environment
Shredmaster Keith performing a trick on a flat surface, surrounded by historical buildings in Bulgaria
Close-up shot of Keith Hardy in action, focused on his stylish skate trick in an old town setting
Keith Hardy, captured in motion, skating past aged architecture in Bulgaria
Shredmaster Keith skating in a public space in Bulgaria with classic architecture and monuments in the background
The video was skillfully filmed by Dimo Petkov, while the captivating photos were captured by Veliko Balabanov.
This trip and video prove that skateboarding knows no boundaries, with its spirit finding a home even in places as historically rich as Bulgaria. Keith’s ability to adapt and thrive in a completely new environment speaks volumes about the universal language of skateboarding. His experience is a testament to the idea that skateboarding isn’t just a sport but a cultural exchange, creating connections between people and places. The blend of Keith’s New York skate style with the unique backdrop of Bulgaria results in a visually and culturally compelling narrative that both entertains and inspires. This collaboration between Keith Hardy and Stinky Socks highlights the global reach and unifying power of skateboarding.
Video by: Dimo Petkov
Photos by: Veliko Balabanov
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