Longboarding rolls into Marshall

Longboarding is a trend that is catching on with young people across the United States and Marshall University is no exception.

The activity, which originated in California, is a mixture of surfing and skateboarding. This is used for transportation and downhill cruising.

"I enjoy it because it's really relaxing and it helps take away stress," said Greg Washington, a junior graphic design major from Huntington.  

Marshall University police officers have taken notice of the increased interest in longboarding but do not know of any problems caused by the activity so far.

"I've seen a lot more students using them this semester," said officer Joshua Lucas of the Marshall Police Department. "I think they're a great way for students to get around, they're fairly safe and it's definitely more efficient than walking."

Lucas sees no problem with it as long as students stay safe and watch out for others, he said.  

"We are mainly concerned with the destruction of property and the safety of the students," Lucas said.

Washington said he thinks Marshall University has an ideal campus for longboarding.

"You don't have to push as much as you would on a skateboard and it's mostly flat around here which makes it easier to just roll to class," Washington said.

Although it is useful for traveling, being a longboarder also comes with precautions.

"A big part of using a longboard is having to watch out for people all the time," Washington said.

"They are easy to carry around, and the best part is you don't have to lock them up like a bike," said Chase Hodsdon, a sophomore from Herndon, Va., who is also a longboarder. "You'd be surprised at how good you can get at it so quickly."

Hodsdon described  longboarding as "slithering on pavement."

"Smith Hall is my favorite," Hodsdon said. "The automatic doors let me roll straight through and I can coast all the way to class. "

None of his professors have had a problem with him bringing his longboard to class, Hodsdon said.

Ashton Bias can be contacted at bias98@marshall.edu.