On August 15, The Waterfront in Venice will host “Jay Day,” an event dedicated to celebrating the life and legacy of skateboarding pioneer Jay Adams, marking the 10th anniversary of his passing. The tribute, beginning at 6:30 p.m., will reflect on Adams’ profound influence on skateboarding and surfing.
Jay Adams, a native of Venice, California, was a transformative figure in the skateboarding world during the 1970s. As the youngest member of the legendary Zephyr Competition Skateboarding Team, known as the Z-Boys, Adams’ innovative freestyle and aggressive vertical tricks, inspired by his passion for surfing, were pivotal in shaping the modern skateboarding scene. His untimely death from a heart attack on August 15, 2014, left a void in the community.
The 2024 Jay Day event will feature a curated selection of videos and photographs that showcase Adams’ remarkable career and personal moments. New episodes produced by Allen Sarlo and Seven Adams will also be unveiled, offering fresh perspectives on Adams’ enduring contributions to the sport. The Venice Surfing Association and other local groups are set to participate, adding to the event’s community-focused spirit.
This special gathering aims to unite fans and residents of Venice, celebrating their shared passion for skateboarding and surfing. The Waterfront, located at 205 Ocean Front Walk, will serve as the backdrop for this heartfelt homage to a man whose impact on skateboarding remains significant.
Ten years prior, on August 30, 2014, the Venice Pier was the site of a poignant memorial and paddle out for Jay Adams, highlighting his lasting influence on the skateboarding world.
Born on February 3, 1961, in Venice, Jay Adams began his journey into skating and surfing at a young age. Known as “the original seed” of skateboarding, his pioneering spirit and bold style continue to inspire new generations of skateboarders.
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