A poem by long-time aggressive inline skater Joseph C. McGowan
better known in the sport as "Ho Ho Joe". Also includes
a photo gallery of Joe competing with his small son
looking on at the
Core Tour event in Venice Beach, California on June 12, 2004.
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Copyright © Kathie Walling Fry, Editor of SkateLog.com
Ho Ho Joe Photo Gallery
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45 Seconds to Glory
by Joseph C. McGowan
"Why do I do it?" you ask, well, let me tell you my story
of the good times, the bad times,
and what it takes for forty-five seconds of glory.
It started back in ‘95
when I first dreamed of being the NISS champ,
Dreamed of effortlessly flying through the air
as I carved up and down the ramp.
You see, I skate the half-pipe
and it makes me whole.
And for this, I sacrifice my body, sometimes leaving my blood
but I always leave a part of my soul.
My clothes are tattered from countless sessions
And my pads are worn and old.
My body is ravaged by countless falls
that over the years has begun to take their toll
You see, skating has become a part of me
And I must admit I do enjoy the show.
And I do it my way, and for that I was branded long ago.
Thatis why they call me “Ho-Ho Joe.”
Iim not the best youive ever seen
or the best today youill be seeing.
But when I skate itis from my heart
For Iill give you every ounce of energy that makes up my being.
And on the day of the contest, as Iim standing on the ramp
they begin to count me in, in 3-2-1.
Everything Iive ever dreamed of being and who I am today,
Iill lay it on the line and Iill roll like the dice for one more perfect run.
And if the ramp gets the best of me,
if to earth I tumble and fall,
Iill pick up my tired body from the ramp
knowing I did the best I could, for Iive given you my all.
You see I skate the half-pipe
for it makes me whole.
And for this Iim willing to sometimes leave my blood
But I always leave a part of my soul.
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More About Joe McGowan
Ho Ho Joe Competing in Venice Beach (Photos)
Water Sculptures by Joseph C. McGowan
Related Links
Photos of the Top Aggressive Skaters
Aggressive Inline Skating
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