Indian Downhill Athlete Ayaz Shaikh Interview

We asked Indian Downhill Athlete Ayaz the questions you were wondering about.

Could you briefly introduce yourself to us? Where were you born and what are you doing as a profession?
Ayaz: My name is Ayaz Shaikh. I am a community representative for our longboarding community in India. I was born in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. I am working as an operations manager for a NGO and also as a sales representative for a different company.

Photographer: Niket (@nikofwest)

What influenced you to start the longboarding sport?
Ayaz: I was introduced to longboarding by my friends Antima Bisht and Sagar Gharat. Initially, it was just for fun and cruising for a year. Once we explored downhill longboarding, I started taking it more seriously. I used to fall a lot, then I started researching more about the right techniques and started to apply them in my practice. I never really realized when I got so much into it.

Photographer: Pranal (@pranalchavan_)

What are your favorite longboard spots to longboard?
Ayaz: There are a few. One of them is Zanskar, Ladakh. It’s by far the most beautiful place I have ever skated. It’s in the North of India in the Himalayas.

What advice do you have for newcomers to longboarding?
Ayaz: Always wear a nice helmet. Learn to foot brake properly. Always have a reality-check about your own skills and how much you are ready to push your limits. Don’t take unnecessary risks. Grow Slowly and patiently. Don’t rush!

Photographer: Ranjan (@ranjan.simkhada)

What is your favorite Longboard move?
Ayaz: A simple front side slide to take a curve.

Which Longboard move was the most challenging for you?
Ayaz: Any toe Side slide (Except for push up Slide). I had a really nice fall on my face while learning a hand down toe side and I think I have never recovered, lol.

Photographer: Vikas (@vikas_lci)

What other sports do you do besides longboarding?
Ayaz: I really enjoy trekking, climbing, and table tennis.

What is the biggest longboard project that you have ever dreamed of?
Ayaz: Currently, I (along with the community) am working on some projects to promote longboarding in India. India has a lot of potential in all the disciplines of longboarding. We are trying to grow communities country-wide so that in a few years, Indian riders will be able to represent in world level competitions.

Photographer: Sagar (@jammy_lci)

To sum it up, what would you like to say to Turk Longboard members about Longboarding?
Ayaz: Kudos to everyone. Support the growth of your community, Always wear your helmet, and ride safely!