Concrete Wave Articles

As a magazine publisher, a number of skate videos cross my desk each year. While each one has a unique quality, I had a sense there was something truly special about “Livin Free.” Little did I realize, when I started to investigate the story behind this video, that it would turn into a four-page story. While “Livin Free” is on its way to becoming a hit in the longboarding world, the story behind the film turns out to be just as intriguing. Turns out that reality doesn’t bite after all.

Michael Brooke: What was it like being a part of the ‘70s skate scene? Chris Carmichael: Living in southern California in the early ‘70s was the epicenter for surfing and skateboarding. I was 14 years old when my grandfather gave me my first movie camera. I started surfing and entering contests and became No. 1 in 1969, in the boys division in the US. This also continued the following year in the Junior Men’s division. I was No. 1 in 1970 and 1971.

The 'Fish Report, from the Holiday '08 edition of Concrete Wave

There is nothing like it: the moment when you’re offered a sponsorship from your favorite company. Imagine the opportunity to have a company you support actually endorsing your unique way of riding while you promote them. With a bit of work and a lot of persistence, you can do this. The following is a basic rundown of what you can do as an individual to get yourself into a position to be sponsored.

Part I of III