Luis Angel Santiago-Skateboarder

By Dave Nevins - Tourism Coordinator for Douglas, Arizona

A mere 62 steps from the City of Douglas Visitor Center is the ever-popular Douglas Skate Park. The younger crowd rides the flat rails, spines, handrails and spines while the old train station dominates the background.

This author was interested in connecting with the skate/bmx crowd. Not exactly seeking information on what board to buy, but learning about the sport, the riders, and to capture some stories and photos.

At the park I met Luis Angel Santiago and his wife Charlette accompanied by their often-smiling Caleb (future skate boarding king?). Truly, some of the nicest people you will ever meet. They reside in Bisbee and come down to Douglas for errands and of course skateboarding.

Luis is originally from Puerto Rico, and he came to the United States for better opportunities. He joined the military but was discharged due to a tumor and PTSD.

This is where the conversation went a bit deeper, but his enthusiasm for skateboarding was still strong. It was connected to the tumor. He was dealing with a serious condition which limited him physically. This opened up the door for being on a board. He could do this. 

This alternate course in life brought him to Cochise County on the pursuit to trying for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. He has chosen to represent the United States over Puerto Rico if he makes the cut to make the Olympic Team.

‘We may not have much in our little corner, but we find our way to happiness’ shared Luis.