Key information
Bob Burnquist, a Brazilian-born professional skateboarder, has built an iconic career defined by persistence and innovation. Starting his professional journey at age 14, he became a central figure in action sports, famously securing two gold medals at the 2015 X Games in Austin despite competing with a broken arm.
Burnquist's influence extends into the digital realm, as he was one of the original two playable characters in the inaugural Tony Hawk's Pro Skater prototype. His inclusion in the Activision franchise, which began with a modified arcade cabinet in England, helped introduce skateboarding culture to a global audience.
Beyond gaming, Burnquist is known for his DreamLand facility in California, featuring a 24-meter-high megarampa. His competitive career concluded with a record 30 X Games podiums, including 14 gold medals, earned between 1995 and 2015. He also famously performed a 50-50 grind over the Grand Canyon.
Now 50, Burnquist continues to shape the sport as the General Manager of the X Games Club São Paulo, focusing on a new city-based global league. He also manages the Instituto Skate Cuida in Brazil, utilizing skateboarding for community development and public infrastructure projects.
