#tbt: Neil and Claar in Speed Freaks

Neil Blender influenced skateboarding as much as Mark Gonzales. At least. He’s responsible for the lien air, the Coffee Break graphic, forfeiting a contest run to paint graffiti…he’s an artist, an enigma, and one of those tall dudes with awesome tall dude style. He’s also known for having some of the most glorious handplants ever. Oh, AND he pioneered half the lip tricks we all still do today. Or try to do. Pretty much just your run of the mill super genius. Steve Claar wasn’t quite all that, but he still ranks on the old timers’ lists as having one of the greatest frontside ollies on the pipe. In a tragic turn, he lost one of his legs due to a staff infection after his pro career was over. I’ve heard he still skates. Together their part couldn’t NOT be a classic. Two greats, skating the way we should all try to skate. And with the Dinosaur Jr. soundtrack it’s almost like you’re watching an Alien Workshop video. Three thumbs up on this. Gearing up for getting down indeed.