By: Annie Li
Chloe Covell, a 14-year-old skateboarding sensation from Australia, is setting her sights on the Paris 2024 Olympics. Though she recently fractured two fingers,, Covell’s determination to compete and win remains strong.
Covell’s passion for skateboarding started when she was just six years old, inspired by watching American skateboarding star Nyjah Huston at the X Games. This moment ignited a love for the sport that has driven her to achieve incredible success at a young age. By 11, Covell had already won silver and bronze medals at the World X Games, establishing herself as a formidable competitor on the international stage.
Her journey continued with a silver medal at the World Championships in Sharjah, UAE in early 2023, where she competed against top skaters like Brazil’s Rayssa Leal. Covell’s performance was particularly notable given her age and the high level of competition. These achievements have earned her valuable points towards qualifying for the Paris 2024 Olympics.
However, Covell’s path has not been without its challenges. She has faced an injury with two fractured fingers, her ring and pinky finger, that has tested her resilience and commitment to the sport. Despite these setbacks, Covell has shown remarkable perseverance, continuing to train hard and compete at a high level. Her dedication to skateboarding is evident in her rigorous training schedule and her determination to overcome any obstacles in her way.
Skateboarding has a long, illustrious history, but it wasn’t until the Tokyo Games in 2021 that it finally made its long-awaited debut on the Olympic stage. The sport has already been approved for both Paris 2024 and LA 2028, so it won’t be leaving the Olympic program anytime soon. The inclusion of skateboarding in the Olympics has given a wide range of athletes like Covell a significant platform to showcase their skills, no matter their age. For Covell, the Paris 2024 Olympics are not just a competition but a chance to inspire others. Her story is a beacon of hope and motivation for young skaters, particularly girls, encouraging them to pursue their dreams no matter the challenges they face.
Covell’s success has also contributed to the growing recognition and support for women’s skateboarding. Once a marginalized sport, women’s skateboarding is now gaining visibility and respect, thanks in part to pioneers like Leticia Bufoni, Lizzie Armanto, and now Chloe Covell. The sport’s inclusion in the Olympics has further boosted its popularity, providing a new generation of female skaters with the recognition and support they need to succeed.
Despite her injuries, Covell remains focused on pushing the boundaries of her sport and achieving her personal best, and is the first to win gold in the Paris Olympics. Her journey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. Chloe Covell’s story is not just about winning medals but about inspiring others to follow their dreams and redefining what is possible in the world of skateboarding.