If you’ve ever watched a skate video and found yourself holding your breath as someone launched off a massive rail with reckless precision, chances are you’ve witnessed Tyrone Olson in action. Known for his fearless style, creative trick selection, and enduring presence in the skateboarding world, Olson has carved out a legacy that spans decades.
Born and raised in Madison, Wisconsin, Tyrone Olson—often affectionately called “T-Bone”—found skateboarding in his youth and never looked back. His early days were shaped by the Midwest skate scene, where he met fellow skater Dave Mayhew, a connection that would prove pivotal. Olson’s raw talent and drive pushed him to move west at a young age, eventually landing in California to chase the dream.
Tyrone’s first major break came when he landed a photo in a skate magazine, a rite of passage for any aspiring pro. From there, he became involved with the early days of Osiris Shoes, contributing to their iconic video The Storm, which helped cement his reputation as a skater willing to go big—especially with jump ramps and massive handrails.
Olson is best known for:
Jump ramp-assisted rail tricks: Using launch ramps to hit rails others wouldn’t dare approach.
Switchflip switch manual: A technical favorite among fans.
Fearless big rail skating: He’s taken on some of the gnarliest setups with a style that’s both aggressive and calculated.
His skating blends raw power with technical finesse, making him a standout in both street and contest environments.
Over the years, Tyrone Olson has been backed by a range of sponsors, including:
Westside Skateshop
Scarred Skateboards
Roughneck Hardware
Lighter Bro
EXPL
Krux Trucks
Sparrow Bearings
He’s had pro model decks with Scarred Skateboards and previously with Germ Skateboards, a brand he helped start. His graphics often reflect his gritty, no-nonsense approach to skating.
Tyrone’s video resume is stacked. Highlights include:
Osiris – The Storm: A defining moment in late-90s skateboarding.
Scarred Skateboards – 2019 Part: Showcasing his longevity and continued passion.
Thrasher’s King of the Road: Where he brought his wild energy to the infamous skate challenge series.
He’s also been featured in numerous independent projects and interviews, including a deep-dive episode on The Nine Club, where he shared stories of broken bones, security guard run-ins, and surviving the California skate grind.
In a quirky twist, Tyrone once adopted the persona “William Patrick,” adding a layer of creative expression to his skateboarding identity. He’s always been one to push boundaries—not just physically, but artistically.
At 50 years old, Tyrone Olson is still skating, still entering contests like Tampa Pro, and still filming clips. He splits time between Wisconsin and California, staying active in the skate community and mentoring younger skaters. His Instagram (@Tboneolson_tclips) is a treasure trove of throwbacks, new footage, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into his life.
Tyrone Olson - The Storm
Tyrone Olson | The Nine Club - Episode 322
Tyrone Olson -Arcade Skateboard's "Gumbo" (1999)
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