【明報專訊】Whoosh! See how fast MoMo and Bill skates! They must have practised for a long time!

◆Gear

Let's gear up before we test our skills! As skateboarding involves a lot of jumping, squatting and even somersaults (翻觔斗) , skateboarders may hurt themselves, especially the joints. It is important for beginners to protect themselves!

◆The trend

Skateboarding has been popular in Japan since the 1970s. Recently, it has been officially listed as one of the Olympic sports! The skateboarding games, consisted of street and park events, will be held in Aomi Urban Sports Venue during the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games. (see picture 2)

◆Did you know?

Although skateboarding is a worldwide activity, Norway once banned the sports for 11 years from 1978 to 1989 because the government thought skateboarding may jeopardise pedestrians and drivers. (see picture 3)

◆Check-in

Skateboarding is strictly forbidden in many parks and gardens. However, you can skate freely in the skatepark in Lai Chi Kok Park near Mei Foo. There are slanted platforms for skateboarders to practise tricks and skills. You can also meet other skateboarders. (photo.4)

■Glossary

joint (n) 關節

jeopardise (v) 危害

forbidden (adj) 被禁止的

slanted (adj) 傾斜的

[Smarties' Power English 第196期]