Qualifying for the 2024 USA Slalom Skateboarding National Team is a feat that requires exceptional skill and determination. To secure a spot on this team, aspiring athletes must meet rigorous criteria. One pathway to qualification is by pre-qualifying in the top 20 worldwide through the accumulation of ISSA World Ranking points. Alternatively, athletes can also earn their spot by excelling in one of the three main national races designated by the USA Slalom Skateboarding committee. Only those who exhibit exceptional talent and prove their determination with slalom skateboarding will have the opportunity to proudly represent the United States on the world stage.
USA Slalom Skateboarding
2024 USA SLALOM SKATEBOARDING NATIONAL TEAM
#1
#1
San Diego, CA
Stance: Goofy
Lynn Kramer, from San Diego, California, has been skating the streets since 1985, mastering various disciplines including street, mini-ramp, ditches, vert, downhill, bowls, and slalom. Engaged in the skate scene since the late 80s, she was an integral part of the Ready to Shred Skateboard Club of UCSD and the Womens Skateboard Network. Lynn’s competitive spirit led her to participate in events like the All Girl Skate Jam and World Cup Skateboarding. Transitioning into serious racing in 2002, she’s made remarkable strides, boasting an impressive 17-time Women’s World Champion title in Slalom Skateboarding. Beyond her own achievements, Lynn serves as the Head Coach of the La Costa Racing Team, a volunteer for Exposure Skate, and a skipper to the Sea Scouts, all while owning two engineering companies. Her journey is supported by sponsors including Sk8Kings, Turbo Wheels, Oust Bearings, Rogue Trucks, Venom, and Old Bones Therapy. Lynn Kramer epitomizes the essence of dedication and success in the world of skateboarding.
#2
#2
Superior, CO
Stance: Regular
Meet Joe McLaren, hailing from Superior, Colorado, a dynamic force in the world of slalom skateboarding. With an illustrious track record boasting eight World Championship titles, Joe dominates the men’s pro world racing circuit with unparalleled finesse and power. Setting new benchmarks each season, his relentless pursuit of excellence has rewritten the history of slalom racing, propelling him to the forefront of the ISSA World Rankings year after year. Beyond his extraordinary feats on the board, Joe assumes pivotal roles as the President of USA Slalom Skateboarding and Secretary for both the ISSA and World Skate Slalom Working Group, cementing his influence and leadership within the global skateboarding community.
#4
#4
Aptos, CA
Stance: Regular
Born and raised in Santa Cruz, California, Judi Oyama is a pioneer in skateboarding. Rising through the ranks in the 1970s and 1980s, Oyama became a prominent female skateboarder, breaking new ground in downhill racing, vert and slalom competitions. Being one of the few women competing in a predominantly male sport, she broke barriers and inspired a new generation of female skaters, cementing her legacy as a trailblazer in the sport. Judi, an original N-Men icon, has achieved two Slalom Skateboard World Championship titles, induction into the Skateboard Hall of Fame in 2018, and recognition in the Sports Hall of Fame at Aptos High School. She represents a diverse array of sponsors such as RipTide Sports, Catto’s Graphics, GORUCK, Insta360, Chomps, Yeti, KT Tape, S1 Helmet, Girl Is NOT A 4 Letter Word, Lenz Arts, Santa Cruz Boardroom, Santa Cruz Skateboards, Bronson Bearings, MOB Grip, Sk8Kings Skateboards, Turbo Skate Wheels, Badass Skatemom, Greg Foy Construction, Santa Cruz Pavers, Laird Superfood, Helinox, West Fitness, River Birchall Foundation and Noso Patches. Judi Oyama continues to inspire and influence the skateboarding community with her passion, skill, and unwavering dedication.
#19
#19
Nashville, TN
Stance: Goofy
Sarah Byrd-Compton is a lifelong skateboarder from Mississippi whom started skateboarding at the age of 5 years old. As the Junior Girls World Champion in 2005, she traveled the US competing in slalom skateboard races. After a hiatus in competing, Sarah made a triumphant return to slalom racing in 2023 and has since achieved a ranking of 6th in the world on ISSA. Currently racing for Mississippi Grass Roots Slalom Skateboarding’s Roadkill Racing team and residing in Nashville, she plays an active role in promoting the sport within the Tennessee community. As a co-organizer of TN Slalom Skateboarding, Sarah contributes to teaching and hosting slalom events across the state. She is also a proud member of the Ladies Skate Nashville crew, dedicated to fostering inclusivity and representation for women and the LGBTQ+ community in skateboarding. Additionally, Sarah is a valued member of the La Costa Racing Team and Stoke Slalom Collective. When she’s not dominating the slalom circuit, Sarah enjoys indulging in her love for coffee, shredding bowls, and spending time with her beloved dogs.
#24
#24
San Pedro, CA
Stance: Regular
Jennifer Coppa, skating from San Pedro, California, boasts an impressive 52 years of experience on the board. At 55, Jennifer continues to push her limits and pursue new challenges in the skateboarding world. Her recent accomplishments in 2023 include bravely dropping in off the start ramp for the first time at the Nationals and clinching a commendable 3rd place in the amateur Women hybrid category at the World’s. Among her cherished moments is securing another 3rd place at the Mecca Ditch event in 2023. Jennifer’s dedication to the sport is evident not only in her accomplishments but also in her enduring passion for skateboarding history, as evidenced by her involvement in Womxn skateboard history. Supported by sponsors Sk8kings Skateboards and Turbo Wheels, as well as the continuous support of her family and friends, Jennifer Coppa remains an inspiration to skateboarders of all ages.
#24
#24
Nashville, TN
Stance: Regular
Josh Byrd, originally from Mississippi and now residing in Nashville, Tennessee, is a prominent figure in the world of slalom skateboarding. Serving as the Secretary of USA Slalom Skateboarding, Josh has been deeply involved in the sport since 2000. He secured the Junior World Champion title in 2003 before retiring from the sport a few years later. Josh made a triumphant return in 2022 at the US Nationals, securing an impressive 5th place. The following year, 2023, proved to be a remarkable racing season for Josh, as he achieved notable placements, including 3rd place at the Texas Sizzler, 6th place in the Pro class at the US National Championship, and 11th place in the Pro class at the World Championship. Riding a JBH/PG board with Rogue trucks, RipTide bushings, and Pat’s Risers, Josh’s equipment reflects his dedication to precision and performance. Proudly sponsored by Old Bones Therapy and a valued member of the La Costa Racing Team, Josh Byrd continues to leave his mark on the slalom skateboarding community with his skill, determination, and passion for the sport.
#28
#28
Fullerton, CA
Stance: Goofy
Scott Hostert, a true veteran of the skateboarding world, hails from Fullerton, California. With a passion ignited in 1969, Scott’s journey in skateboarding began. A few years later, he was competing, quickly establishing himself as a top amateur skater sponsored by industry giants like Sims, Pepsi, and G&S throughout 1976 to 1979. Remarkably, Scott remains one of the last original La Costa racers still actively participating in races at the age of 61. His illustrious career includes four World Championship titles in slalom, with two victories in the Czech Republic and two in Canada, alongside numerous National titles. Today, Scott continues to push the boundaries of his sport, supported by sponsors Sk8kings and Dusty’s Nuts, leaving an indelible mark on the skateboarding community through his achievements and enduring dedication.
Austin, TX
Stance: Regular
Event Qualified: US National Championships
Maggie’s skateboarding journey began at age four, swiftly progressing to slalom skateboarding by kindergarten and culminating in victory at her debut U.S. Nationals race. Mentored by world champion Lou Statman, she has since competed internationally, securing sponsorships from Sk8Kings, La Costa Racing, and Toyota of Cedar Park. Notably, Maggie claimed first place in the Women’s category at the 25 Cone World Series and eagerly anticipates the upcoming World Skate Games in Rome. Maggie loves all forms of skateboarding including skating transitions and park. When she’s not on wheels, you can find her acting in theater competitions and making art.
Portland, OR
Stance: Regular
Event Qualified: 2023 World Championships
Jordan Huotari from Pacific City, Oregon has dedicated 33 years of his life to the sport. Inspired by icons like Tom Sims and Craig Kelly, he grew up immersing himself in the skateboarding, snowboarding, and surfing culture of the Pacific Northwest during the vibrant 90s era. In the early 2000s, Jordan ventured into slalom racing, drawn by the parallel challenges it offered to his snowboarding pursuits and the camaraderie of legendary skateboarders at the races. He perceives slalom as akin to surfing and tree snowboarding, where anticipating clean lines several turns ahead is key. Notably, Jordan’s skills earned him recognition at events like the Gorge Games in Hood River, Oregon, where he clinched top positions in the amateur division. Despite the overwhelming talent of the pros, Jordan’s focus remains on the thrill of navigating the course, embodying his description of slalom as “trying to milk the hill for more than it can already give you.”
Oceanside, CA
Stance: Regular
Event Qualified: Texas Sizzler
Francesca Rosario-Custodio has been skating for the past 12 years, exploring all disciplines of skateboarding. She started with freestyle and transition, then ventured into the downhill race scene, traveling to races throughout the USA, Mexico, and the Philippines, at one point reaching #5 in the world. During this time, she participated in a couple of small slalom events and enjoyed skating slalom for fun. Francesca has worked in the skate industry for several years, including stints at a skate shop and for a board manufacturer, where she helped design prototype longboards. Through her industry experience, she had the opportunity to meet some of her skateboard heroes, including Lynn Kramer, the 17th world women’s slalom champion. Lynn and Francesca became friends, traveling to Maryhill together. Lynn has served as a role model, mentor, and coach to Francesca over the years. After overcoming several injuries in downhill skating, Francesca is now returning to the slalom skating scene. When she is not skating with the La Costa Racing team or friends, she enjoys bowl riding, sailboat racing, and performing skateboarding stunt work in the film industry.
Campbell, CA
Stance: Regular
Event Qualified: Texas Sizzler
Leiola Kahaku, a 15-year-old resident of Campbell, California, discovered her passion for skateboarding at the age of 7, honing her skills alongside her uncles. During the pandemic, her dedication to the sport intensified, leading her to explore slalom skating after an invitation from fellow skater Mark Johnson in September 2023. Under the guidance of Judi Oyama, Leiola found her stride running cones down hills and swiftly fell in love with the discipline. Despite being new to slalom skateboarding, Leiola’s determination shone through as she set her sights on making it onto the national team. Her journey culminated in success at the Texas Sizzler in Hockley, Texas, where she achieved her goal. While currently without sponsors, Leiola remains optimistic about her future in the sport and hopes to secure support on her journey to the World Skate Games in Rome.