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In 1999, legendary skateboarder Tony Hawk put the X Games on the map when he landed the first-ever 900 in the skateboard best trick competition in front of a raucous crowd and a huge TV audience.
Hawk’s successful trick came after the time was up in the competition, and after 10 previous failed attempts. But as one of ESPN’s TV announcers said at the time, “We make up the rules as we go along. Let’s give him another try.”
He eventually landed the trick, sending the crowd into a frenzy.
Buyer Pays $1.15M For Legendary Tony Hawk Skateboard
Hawk’s 900 set the table for what was to come both for skateboarding and for the X Games, which grew to massive popularity in the 2000s.
Now, the board on which he landed the iconic trick has sold for an astronomical fee.
According to a report from ESPN, the board sold for $1.152 million at auction on Wednesday. Julien’s Auctions, which handled the sale of the skateboard, said the final price was approximately double the presale estimate. The company also accepted online bids.
Although the eventual buyer was not disclosed, Hawk said previously that he had hoped it would go to someone who valued the item for its place in the sport’s history.
“I hope that it’s someone that truly appreciates it or that that event or that object meant something to them and it’s not just a flex because they have the money,” he said. “I guess that’s what I’m worried about … I would be stoked if it’s someone that had a connection to skating or that maybe they’re going to display it somewhere for other people to see.”
Additionally, Hawk’s helmet from the moment sold for $115,200. His sneakers sold for $64,000, and his kneepards went for $57,600.
Proceeds from the auction will go to his nonprofit, The Skatepark Project.