Love and Guts

Lance, where is your left arm?

I grew up watching the Bones Brigade videos. The Bones Brigade was on a different level and it wasn't until Public Domain, that the skating and skaters featured in the movies seemed accessible. Over the years I have had the opportunity to meet a few skaters, but last night was the first time I had the privilege of meeting Lance Mountain. It was amazing! What I knew from his on camera humor, is true to life. He is a funny and humble individual and when I asked him how has he kept skating and laughing through all the years, he replied with, "Pain, that, and Neil Blender." His answer floored me. Here I am talking to Lance Mountain, a huge influence in my life and he let's me know that Neil Blender is the motivator, one who I would have casually assumed as his peer. I asked Lance about mini Mountain, and he pointed over to the DJ, and said, "there he is, he is into music. We get to skate on Friday's together but that's about it." I remember the side by side editorial shots of the two of them skating in the mags. Anyway, it got me thinking about the 1 to 2 times a year that I go out and play golf with my old man. Thanks Lance for totally exceeding any and all expectations I had of meeting you. I barely slept last night.