The Legend of Marshall Coben: A Skateboarding Icon

You know those people who seem to appear out of thin air, do incredible things, and then disappear again, leaving a lasting impression? Well, that’s kind of how I feel about Marshall Coben. He’s a legend in the skateboarding world, and his impact on the sport is still felt today. So, who exactly is this guy, and what’s his story?

Let’s dive in and find out.

A West Coast Kid

I was born in Seattle, Washington, in 1962, but my family moved to Topanga when I was just a kid. Growing up on the beach, with the sun on my face and the ocean at my feet, was the perfect setting for a future skater. I started young, at 11 years old, and immediately fell in love with the freedom and adrenaline that skateboarding offered.

The Z-Boys were my heroes. You know, those iconic skaters from Dogtown who changed the game and brought skateboarding to life. I went to school with some of them, like Jim Muir, Bob Biniak, and the legendary Jay Adams. I mean, these guys were my classmates, can you believe it? And they were already making waves in the skateboarding scene.

Joining the Zephyr Team

Speaking of waves, I managed to catch one myself and joined the iconic Zephyr Team. This was a big deal, and I was stoked to be a part of it, even if it was towards the end of their reign. Jeff Ho, the man behind the Zephyr surf and skate shop, gave me my first real break, handing me a broken board and a used Zephyr shirt. I felt like I’d joined the big leagues! We practiced on Bay Street, doing freestyle moves and Bert slides. It was an incredible time to be a part of that team and to witness the tail end of their glory days.

The Tunnel Days

Now, one of my proudest skating moments was my association with Tunnel. I still remember Bob Biniak and Wenzl Ruml rocking up to school with those Tunnel Rocks in their pockets, showing them off like precious jewels. Those wheels were the hottest things around, and I knew I had to get my hands on some. So, I reached out to Mitch, and before I knew it, I was riding for Tunnel. My setup was a beauty: a blue deck with a kicktail and those iconic red Tunnel rocks. It was a dream come true, and I felt like I was making a name for myself.

Contest Wins and Canyon Skating

I was known for my high jump and nose wheelie skills, and I took home some contest wins because of those tricks. But one of my proudest moments was winning the boys’ division in the first and only Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce Skateboard Contest. Shogo Kubo, a legendary skater in his own right, even coached me between heats. But aside from contests, I also loved canyon skating. This was something we did in Malibu, riding down dirt tracks barefoot. It was a unique skill, and not many people could do it, so it set us apart.

The Signature Board

One of my most memorable moments was when we were in Ventura for a contest, and we got bored, as skaters often do. We found a dirt hill and started showing off our canyon skating skills. Some of the other skaters tried it and, well, let’s just say they weren’t as graceful. My signature board graphic comes from a nose wheelie I pulled off that day, barefoot in the dirt. You can even see a glimpse of that moment in the movie “Go For It!”

A Life Well-Skated

So, that’s a little about me, Marshall Coben. I grew up on the West Coast, joined the Zephyr Team, rode for Tunnel, and even got my signature board. I won some contests, did some crazy stuff like canyon skating, and hung out with some of the biggest names in the sport. It’s been a wild ride, and skateboarding has given me so much. I’ve got kids now, and I still skate whenever I can. It’s a part of who I am, and I’ll always be grateful for the adventures it’s taken me on.

So, there you have it, the story of Marshall Coben, a skateboarding icon who left his mark on the sport and continues to inspire new generations of skaters. It just goes to show that sometimes the most incredible stories are the ones that start right in your backyard.

Isn’t it fascinating how a simple hobby can turn into a lifelong passion, shaping someone’s entire life? Marshall Coben’s story is a testament to the power of following your interests and the impact they can have on your journey. It’s a reminder to embrace the unexpected and to never underestimate the potential of something that sparks your curiosity.

Love Story

Everyone loves a good love story, right? Well, mine started many years ago when I first locked eyes with my soulmate. It was one of those moments that you hear people talk about, where time stands still and you just know that your life is about to change forever. Cheesy, I know, but it’s true!

I was a young skater, traveling up and down the coast, always on the lookout for new adventures. Then, one day, I met this incredible person who just so happened to be my perfect match. They say that opposites attract, but for us, it is all about shared passions and values. We both loved the ocean, the sun and, of course, skateboarding. We could spend hours just skating together, and it felt like we were the only two people in the world.

Our relationship grew stronger as we explored new places, took on challenges, and created unforgettable memories. Together, we’ve traveled to far-off lands, tried new cuisines, and even adopted a cute little fur baby who we adore. Our home is filled with love, laughter, and the occasional friendly debate about who’s the better skater (it’s me!).

Personal Life

Now, besides my life as a skater, I’m just your average person enjoying the simple things in life. I love waking up early, watching the sunrise, and taking my dog for a walk on the beach. There’s something so peaceful about those quiet moments by the ocean. I also enjoy trying new things, whether it’s a new recipe in the kitchen or learning a new instrument. Life is all about new experiences, don’t you think?

Family is incredibly important to me, and I cherish the time I spend with my kids. Seeing the world through their eyes is a constant reminder to stay curious and playful. We often go on adventures together, exploring new skate parks or simply hanging out in our backyard, making memories that I know will stay with them forever.

As for my day-to-day life, I like to keep things pretty low-key. I’m not one for fancy parties or extravagant outings. Give me a good book, a cozy couch, and a cup of tea any day! I’m also a big believer in giving back, so I try to volunteer and support causes that are close to my heart whenever I can. It’s all about finding that balance between enjoying life and contributing to something bigger than myself.

So, there you have it! That’s a little peek into my love story and personal life. It’s full of love, laughter, family, and, of course, skateboarding. I hope you enjoyed getting to know me a little better and remember, everyone has their own unique story to tell, so never be afraid to embrace and share yours!

I hope my story inspires you to embrace your passions, find your soulmate, and create a life filled with love and laughter. Remember, it’s the little moments that often have the biggest impact, so cherish them always!

Conclusion

As we roll to a stop on this journey through the life and times of Marshall Coben, it’s clear that his story is more than just a tale of skateboarding triumphs. It’s a narrative woven with the threads of passion, innovation, and a deep love for the ride—both on and off the board. From the sun-drenched beaches of California to the pinnacle of skateboarding contests, Marshall’s life reflects the spirit of an era that revolutionized a sport and influenced countless individuals.

Marshall’s legacy is etched into the heart of skate culture, his name synonymous with the fearless pursuit of what seemed impossible. His high jumps and nose wheelies are not merely tricks but symbols of a life lived pushing boundaries. Yet, beyond the skate parks and accolades, Marshall’s story is also one of personal fulfillment, family, and the simple joys that give life its richest texture.

In the end, Marshall Coben’s tale is a reminder to us all: to chase our passions with relentless enthusiasm, to find balance amidst life’s complexities, and to treasure the connections we make along the way. Whether you’re a skater or not, there’s a bit of Marshall’s spirit in anyone who dares to dream and dares to leap into the unknown.