From Skateboard Racer to Museum Curator: The Inspiring Journey of Judi Peppe

Judi has been a part of the skate scene in Santa Cruz since her first downhill race at the age of 15 in the 1970s. Her early jobs, such as working with NHS skateboard company, helped kickstart her career in graphic design and gave her a taste for the competitive side of skateboarding.

Upon reentering the racing scene after a 20-year hiatus, Judi was determined to win again, despite having two young children at the time. Her kids even accompanied her to races when they were still in diapers and while she was breastfeeding in her early 40s.

Judi’s hard work paid off and she was eventually inducted into the Skateboarding Hall of Fame in 2018. She also played a role in curating the NHS Skate Museum when it opened in Santa Cruz, which features photos and videos of old competitions, colorful skateboards, and vintage skate art.

One of Judi’s early skateboards, a Santa Cruz brand board made of deep red fiberglass with red wheels and yellow block lettering, is on display at the NHS Skate Museum. Additionally, one of her helmets from her early skating days is housed in the Smithsonian Institution Archives. Judi jokingly remarks that having her items in a museum makes her realize she’s getting older but she is proud to be recognized for her contributions to the sport.