Deathracer413: How Skateboarding Keeps This Group Young at Heart

Deathracer413: Skateboarding for Longevity and Community In Southern California, a unique group of skateboarders known as Deathracer413 is defying expectations. Mostly in their late 50s and 60s, these vertical skateboarders have found in the sport a key to longevity, both physically and mentally. Their story, captured in a recent video by The Los Angeles Times, is one of dedication, community, and the pursuit of joy. The video shows Deathracer413 members executing impressive airborne tricks in a deep, emptied-out swimming pool. The inherent danger of the sport, they say, keeps their minds sharp. "It's dangerous too at their age, when injuries take longer to heal," the narrator notes. However, the group emphasizes the joy they derive from skateboarding, the sense of community it fosters, and the fitness benefits, including core strength and balance. Doug Marker, a former pro skateboarder and a founder of Deathracer413, shares, "In some ways, I feel younger now that I'm retired and my children are grown. My responsibilities are just to make my life as big and wonderful as it can be." Steve Caballero, a legendary skateboarder at 60 and a member of the group, adds, "I use the 'old man card' all the time now because when you're younger, you think, 'Wow, look how good that person is, they're so young.' Now it's like, I like people when they say, 'Wow, look how good that person is, he's so old.' I embrace it." Deathracer413 includes several women, highlighting that the group's bond transcends gender. Lynn Kramer, a member, states, "It's a lifestyle, and it keeps you out of depression; it keeps you fit, mentally also." The video concludes with the members emphasizing the 'pure fun factor' and the passion of 'chasing stoke,' a testament to the enduring power of community, passion, and the pursuit of joy in life.