Skateboarding has evolved over the years, with new tricks pushing the limits of what is possible. Among these tricks, the 900 stands out as one of the most famous and difficult. It is a move that only the best skaters in the world can perform. But what exactly is a 900 skateboarding trick? This article will break it down, explain its history, and describe how it is executed.
Definition of The 900 Trick
The 900 is an aerial skateboarding trick where the skater performs two and a half spins (900 degrees) in the air before landing. The trick is done on a vert ramp, where the skater gains enough speed and height to complete the rotation. It is considered one of the hardest tricks in skateboarding history because of the difficulty in controlling the spin and landing safely.
History of the 900 Trick
The 900 was first successfully landed by Tony Hawk during the 1999 X Games. Before that, many skaters attempted it, but no one had successfully landed it in a competition. Tony Hawk’s achievement made history and cemented his legacy in skateboarding.
After Hawk’s success, other professional skateboarders started attempting the trick. Over the years, new generations of skaters have landed the 900, including younger athletes pushing the boundaries of the sport.
How to Perform a 900
Executing a 900 requires skill, experience, and perfect timing. Below are the key steps involved:
Gain Speed and Approach the Ramp
The skater starts by dropping into the vert ramp and pumping to gain as much speed as possible.
A strong approach ensures the necessary height for the spin.
Launch Off the Ramp
The skater must pop off the lip of the ramp with enough force to rise into the air.
The body should be in a controlled, upright position to prepare for the spin.
Initiate the Spin
The skater turns their shoulders and head in the direction of the spin.
The arms and legs help generate rotational force.
The trick involves two full spins (720 degrees) plus an extra half spin (180 degrees), making a total of 900 degrees.
Control the Rotation in the Air
Spotting the landing is crucial.
The skater tucks their body to control the speed of the spin.
Prepare for Landing
As the skater completes the rotation, they must untuck and position the board correctly.
The skater aims to land smoothly with both feet on the board.
Absorb the Impact and Ride Away
Knees should be bent to absorb the impact of landing.
A stable stance helps the skater maintain control and ride away cleanly.
Why Is The 900 So Difficult?
Several factors make the 900 one of the hardest skateboarding tricks:
Rotation Speed: Completing two and a half spins before landing requires extreme precision.
Height Requirement: The skater needs to reach a great height to allow enough time to spin.
Air Control: Balancing in the air while spinning is incredibly difficult.
Landing Accuracy: Even a slight miscalculation can result in falling or injury.
Physical Demands: The trick requires strength, agility, and years of practice.
Famous Skaters Who Have Landed the 900
Since Tony Hawk first landed the 900, several other skateboarders have also achieved it. Some of the most notable skaters include:
Tony Hawk (1999): First skater to land the trick.
Bob Burnquist: Successfully landed a switch 900 (spinning in the opposite stance).
Mitchie Brusco: One of the youngest skaters to land the 900.
Tom Schaar: First skater to land a 1080 (three full spins), pushing the sport even further.
Impact of the 900 on Skateboarding
The 900 changed skateboarding forever. Before its completion, many believed it was impossible. Tony Hawk’s success inspired a new wave of skaters to attempt more difficult tricks. It also helped bring skateboarding into the mainstream, increasing its popularity worldwide. Today, tricks like the 900 are a symbol of dedication, progression, and innovation in skateboarding.
Conclusion
The 900 skateboarding trick is one of the most legendary moves in extreme sports. It requires a perfect combination of skill, speed, and control. First landed by Tony Hawk in 1999, the trick has since been attempted and completed by only a handful of elite skateboarders. It remains a milestone in skateboarding history and a challenge for those who seek to push the limits of the sport.
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