Anthony Frank Hawk, known affectionately as Birdman, was born on May 12, 1968. He is an iconic figure in the world of skateboarding, recognized not only for his exceptional skills but also for his entrepreneurial ventures. As the owner of the skateboard company Birdhouse, Hawk has made significant contributions to the sport and its culture.
A true pioneer of modern vertical skateboarding, Hawk achieved a historic milestone in 1999 by completing the first documented '900' trick, a feat that solidified his status as one of the greatest skateboarders of all time. That same year, he also launched a successful skateboarding video game series under his name, published by Activision, further expanding his influence beyond the skatepark.
After retiring from professional competition in 2003, Hawk continued to inspire future generations of skaters. His philanthropic efforts, particularly through the Skatepark Project, aim to create skateparks in underprivileged areas around the globe, ensuring that the joy of skateboarding is accessible to all.