From Racer to Museum Curator: Judi’s Skateboarding Journey

Judi has been a part of the skate scene for decades, starting with her first downhill race at 15 in Capitola in the 1970s. Her early jobs included working for the Santa Cruz skateboard company NHS, where she learned how to silkscreen and airbrush skateboards. When official slalom skateboarding races returned in 2001, Judi eagerly dove back into the world of racing despite having young children at home.

Upon reentering the racing scene, Judi began winning and continued to do so until her induction into the Skateboarding Hall of Fame in 2018. She played a role in curating the NHS Skate Museum when it opened in Santa Cruz, which features photos and videos of old competitions, colorful skateboards, and vintage skate art. One of her early Santa Cruz skateboard team bags is displayed in the museum alongside other skateboarding gear from the 1970s.

One of Judi’s early skateboards, a Santa Cruz brand board made of deep red fiberglass with red wheels and yellow block lettering, is highlighted in the museum. Additionally, one of her helmets from her early skating days is housed in the Smithsonian Institution Archives. Judi jokingly remarks that having her items in a museum makes her realize she’s getting older. Despite this, she continues to be an active member of the local skate scene and remains passionate about racing and graphic design.