Leo Riot
American vert skater and software engineer (born 1984)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Leo Riot (born December 3, 1984) is an American professional vert skater and technology entrepreneur known for constructing a full-scale backyard vert ramp in North Carolina and for competing internationally, including at X Games Shanghai 2014. Riot began skating in 1996 and turned professional in 2006.[1][2]
Riot performing on a vert ramp | ||||||||||||
| Personal information | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nationality | American | |||||||||||
| Born | December 3, 1984 | |||||||||||
| Occupation(s) | Vert skater, software engineer, entrepreneur | |||||||||||
Medal record
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Early life
Backyard vert ramp
In 2009, Riot began building a backyard vert ramp after noting the nearest vertical facility was a two-hour drive away. The project took about nine months and resulted in a ramp approximately 13.5 feet high and 40 feet wide, comparable to X Games dimensions. The Enquirer-Journal covered the build and local response, describing the ramp's quality and the small community that formed around sessions at Riot's home.[1]
Competitive career
Riot turned professional in 2006 and competed in national and international vert events. He represented the United States in vert at X Games Shanghai 2014.[2]
- 2005: 5th – ASA World Championships, Sacramento, California (Vert).
- 2004: 1st – Brian Piccolo Skatepark, Cooper City, Florida (Vert).
Style and tricks
Riot is noted for advanced vert tricks including the fakie 1080 and flatspin 540.
Technology and entrepreneurship
Outside of skating, Riot is a software engineer and entrepreneur. He began programming in 1998 and was instrumental in developing the software licensed by one of the largest futures funding companies, contributing to over half a billion dollars in revenue within three years.[3] He currently serves as CTO of Day Traders, where he oversees technological innovation, software architecture, and operational efficiency.[3]