In a spectacular display of skateboarding prowess, 18-year-old Lazer Crawford delivered a performance that left seasoned pros and Olympic champions stunned, securing a dramatic victory at the inaugural Rockstar Energy Open on Sunday evening. Crawford’s flawless execution of a kickflip frontside bluntslide and a kickflip backside tailslide propelled him to first place, marking a momentous debut in his professional career.
As the crowd erupted in chants of his name, Crawford leaped into the air, lifted by adoring fans and captured on camera embracing his family in celebration. This unprecedented win, described by Crawford as “100 percent” the pinnacle of his career, was made even more thrilling by his affiliation with Rockstar Energy, the event’s title sponsor.
Crawford’s triumph was not an isolated highlight at the event, held at Portland’s Waterfront Park from August 23–25. The Rockstar Energy Open stood out for its inclusive format, allowing skateboarders to qualify through video submissions in its Video Qualifying Series (VQS). This unique approach provided a platform for emerging talent, such as 16-year-old Secret Lynn, who earned the Viewer’s Choice vote and secured a spot in the women’s street semifinal.
Lynn’s impressive performance continued as she clinched third place in the semifinal, advancing to the final round where she finished sixth. Reflecting on the experience, Lynn praised the event’s open-access format, emphasizing the need for more competitions that highlight the skills of skateboarders and offer broader exposure.
The competition also showcased veteran skaters like Chris Joslin, who, at 28, found himself among a younger, energetic field. Joslin noted the shift in his role, feeling like a veteran for the first time in his career, with younger skaters now looking up to him.
The event’s diverse roster included skaters beyond the usual invitees, addressing concerns about exclusivity in the sport. Veteran transition skater and Paris 2024 silver medalist Tom Schaar praised the Open’s inclusivity, while two-time Olympic gold medalist Keegan Palmer welcomed the opportunity for lesser-known skaters to compete and gain recognition.
Braden Hoban, a recent pro and fellow Rockstar teammate of Crawford, had anticipated the event’s refreshing approach. Hoban highlighted the excitement of seeing new talent break into the competitive scene, emphasizing the event’s role in invigorating the skateboarding community.
Cory Juneau, another Rockstar team skater and bronze medalist from the Tokyo 2021 Olympics, encapsulated the sentiment of the weekend, describing the event as a “refresh for skateboarding” and a significant opportunity for both emerging and established skaters.
The Rockstar Energy Open has set a new standard for skateboarding competitions, blending inclusivity with high-level performance and providing a stage for both rising stars and seasoned professionals to shine.
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