Johnny Strange first came to Bhutan to ask permission to climb the highest unclimbed mountain in the world. Gangkhar Puensum, a 7,570m peak. The peak on this mountain is considered scared, and although Johnny was not granted this permission he developed a friendship with the people of Bhutan and spent time working with the Bhutan Olympic Committee.
While in Bhutan, Johnny brought over his longboard skateboard, one of the first in the country, and taught several young kids in Bhutan how to skate. In Johnny’s honor, his family, in cooperation with the Kingdom of Bhutan, is building the Johnny Strange Skatepark in Thimphu, Bhutan–the first skatepark in Bhutan. The 8,000 square foot skatepark will be designed and built by CA Skateparks.
We here at California Skatepakrs are extremely greatful to help bring skateboarding to the people of Bhutan as well as experiencing the rich and loving culture of Thimphu, Bhutan.
Here are some photos from project so far.