Skateboarding has always had its fair share of rebels, but few have embodied the raw, unapologetic spirit of the sport quite like Andy Roy. From his early days tearing up the streets to his battles with addiction and eventual redemption, Andy’s story is one of chaos, resilience, and an undying love for skateboarding.
Born on July 6, 1971, in Santa Cruz, California, Andy Roy was destined to be a skateboarder. Growing up in a town known for its surf and skate culture, he was naturally drawn to the sport. Like many young skaters, he spent countless hours honing his skills at local skateparks, pushing himself to the limit and developing a style that was as aggressive as it was unpredictable.
Andy wasn’t just another skater—he was a force of nature. Known for his fast, raw, and fearless approach, he made a name for himself with gnarly handrail tricks, high-speed grinds, and chaotic lines that left spectators in awe. His skating wasn’t about finesse; it was about pure, unfiltered energy. Whether it was a death-defying frontside grind or a sketchy yet stylish wall ride, Andy’s skating was always unpredictable and exciting.
Andy’s talent didn’t go unnoticed, and he quickly landed sponsorships with some of the biggest names in skateboarding. Over the years, he was backed by Santa Cruz Skateboards, Anti-Hero, and Focus, among others. His rebellious nature sometimes led to clashes with sponsors, but his undeniable skill kept him in the game.
As a pro skater, Andy had several signature decks that reflected his wild personality. His graphics often featured edgy, punk-inspired artwork that resonated with skaters who admired his raw, no-holds-barred approach to life.
Andy Roy’s video parts were legendary. He wasn’t the kind of skater who relied on perfectly polished tricks—his sections were gritty, chaotic, and full of personality. Some of his most memorable appearances include:
Santa Cruz’s early skate videos, where he first made a name for himself.
Anti-Hero’s classic releases, showcasing his aggressive street skating.
His appearances in Epicly Later’d, where he shared his personal struggles and triumphs.
Watching Andy skate was like watching a punk rock concert—loud, unpredictable, and full of energy.
Andy’s journey wasn’t without its struggles. He battled heroin addiction, which led to a two-year stint in prison. His time behind bars was rough, but it ultimately became a turning point in his life. After his release, he fought to reclaim his place in the skateboarding world, using his experiences to inspire others.
Today, Andy Roy is clean, sober, and still deeply involved in skateboarding. He’s become an advocate for addiction recovery, using his platform to help others struggling with substance abuse. He also hosts the Rip Ride Podcast, where he interviews fellow skaters and shares stories from his wild past.
Despite everything he’s been through, Andy remains one of the most authentic and beloved figures in skateboarding. His story is a testament to the power of resilience, proving that no matter how far you fall, there’s always a way back.
Andy Roy isn’t just a skateboarder—he’s a survivor, a storyteller, and a legend. And if there’s one thing we know for sure, it’s that his ride is far from over.
Skating on the Wild Side: Andy Roy | Epicly Later'd
Andy Roy: Pro Skater to Prisoner and Back Again | EPICLY LATER'D
Andy Roy | The Nine Club With Chris Roberts - Episode 142
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