Passing the Torch: Arto Saari

Thrasher Magazine, May, 2003

How was your reigning year as Skater of the Year?

It was good. It was all good. It was sick to see Tony win it. It was amazing.

What advice would you give to Tony as you pass the crown?

Advice? Ah. Just keep on fuckin' shreddin', man.

What were some of your duties as Skater of the Year?

Oh, just skatin' around. Go to the party. Hangin' out. It was pretty chill, actually.

Are you pretty sad now that your year is up?

No. Not at all. It's alright. I'm relieved, actually.

What have you been up to this last year?

I've been cruising around Europe, on business. I have business over there. All over the place. Skating around here and there.

What cities were you in?

Barcelona, most of the time. Then between there and Finland. That was the deal.

How does Barcelona compare to your other home in Huntington Beach?

They don't really compare, do they? They're actually very different.

Why would you rather be in Europe than California?

I like Europe more. You can skate around. It's good. I don't know why I picked Europe. I guess I'm just a bit mental. It fuckin' disgusts me.

What?

The mentalness.

Did you need a break after making Sorry?

A little bit. I sort of got burned out. My body definitely got burned out. It's still not right. It definitely took a big chunk out of me, for sure. But it's all good. It was all in good fun. It was fun while it lasted.

Is it safe to assume that you're no longer just experimenting with cigs and alcohol?

No, I went to the store and got some nicotine gum.

How's that treating you?

Terrible. Just terrible.

Is there anything you wanted to change about the Flip video?

There were little things here and there. There were a few tricks. You always want to do more. I'm happy with it.

What new guys do you like?

PJ. He's not that new but he's well good. That Spanky kid. He's destroying everything.

So what's next?

I'm getting the skate missions going again. Getting on the board.

Will you ever be able to skate at the intensity that you did when you first came over?

Yeah. I think so, What am I talking about? Of course! Of course I can! I've got to get my fucking fair share.