KEEGAN PALMER’S NEXT NEW WAVE INTERVIEW — By Dave Swift

Dumptruck. Indio, California.

WORDS AND PHOTOS: Dave Swift

You’d think from the answers below that Keegan Palmer doesn’t have much to say. I’ve been traveling around with him for the last two years and I can reliably tell you this is not true. Keegs has lots to say but I guess at the moment he’d rather have his skating do all the talking. What does a fifteen-year-old have to say anyway?

Who are you and where are you from?

I am Keegan Palmer and I’m from Australia.

What got you started skateboarding?

I don’t really remember. My parents got me a skateboard when I was three and I was just able to stand on it. I guess it just went from there.

What pushed you to progress so quickly?

Seeing everyone else progress makes me want to get better. Also, just skating with the homies and learning new tricks.

Do you have a favorite terrain?

I like everything, really, because it’s all fun.

Backside air. Hemet, California.

Are you living in the U.S. these days?

Yes, I’ve been living in the states for about a year now.

Who do you usually skate with in Australia?

Just all the local guys that skate around there. And I have a few friends that I skate with.

Who in the U.S.?

I skate with Cruise and Bali [Mosberg] and Gavo [Bottger].

Boardslide. San Clemente, California. 

Has it been decided if you are representing Australia in the 2020 Olympics? 

It hasn’t been announced yet but I’m trying to be in it for Australia.

How does Australia compare to the U.S. as far as skateboarding is concerned?

The U.S. has some really amazing skaters but some of the kids coming up in Australia are really good.

Favorite Flip rider, past or present?

Tom Penny.

Hardest trick you ever learned?

Probably a 540.

Backside tailslide. Sunland, California. 

Favorite food?

Sushi.

What is your deal with surfing?

When I’m not skating it’s what I usually do.

Are you psyched on your part?

I’m super stoked on it and hope everyone likes it.

Future plans?

I just want to keep progressing in my skating.

Tweaked in Ramona, California.

Madonna. Los Angeles, California.

Backside air. Porterville, California.

Tail tap. Clinton-Keith (RIP).