Andy McDonald, with 11 X-Games medals under his belt, is one of the most successful and prolific skateboarders in history. Mac, as he is simply known, helped to transform the image of skateboarding from fringe hobby to full-fledged competitive sport. With his own video game, MTV Sports: Skateboarding Featuring Andy MacDonald, released in 2000 and a GAP ad with fellow skateboarder Tony Hawk, Andy Mac is reaching professional levels to be coveted by other extreme athletes.

Tony has the following words of advice for those just starting out on their journey to conquer the world of skating:

"My simple advice to someone just beginning to skate is to recognize that skateboarding is very hard to do. Don't get caught up in what is cool, what is not, or what tricks you should learn. Do whatever makes you happy. Most importantly and above all else, have fun and enjoy it."

Source: http://expn.go.com/