A 70-year-old man has become the most astonishing sight in Santiago de Cuba after a video of him expertly skateboarding near the Plaza de Marte, the heart of the city's historic center, went viral.
This extraordinary moment was shared on Instagram by stylist Joiker Fashion, who chatted with the elderly gentleman on the bustling avenue.
"Only in Santiago de Cuba, here in the capital, in the hot land," exclaims Joiker, watching the man glide with a grace that many young people would envy.
The most remarkable aspect is not just his ease on the skates, but the fact that he has only been practicing for four months. According to his own account in the video, his routine includes three daily sessions and he visits the plaza every day, making himself a familiar figure there.
The protagonist, a native of Santiago, had no previous skating experience when he decided to embark on this journey. His dedication to the challenge explains the impressive level he has reached in such a short period.
"At 70, look at how he masters those skates," the narrator of the clip emphasizes.
The scene unfolds in one of the city's most iconic spots. The Plaza de Marte originated in the late 18th century as a military training ground and today serves as a community hub in the historic center of Santiago, hosting daily life and sociocultural activities.
In recent years, social media has featured videos of older Cubans showcasing unexpected energy and skills, such as grandmothers dancing or an elderly couple dazzling with their dance moves.
The story of this Santiago native adds an inspiring element that's hard to ignore: starting from scratch at an age when many would consider it impossible to learn something new, he has achieved a level of skill that leaves onlookers in awe.
Skating experts note that there is no universal age limit for starting this activity, and its benefits for seniors include improvements in balance, coordination, cardiovascular health, and emotional well-being. The 70-year-old at Plaza de Marte seems to understand this better than anyone.
The Surge of Skateboarding Enthusiasm in Santiago de Cuba
What inspired the 70-year-old man to start skateboarding?
The man, originally from Santiago, decided to take up skateboarding without any prior experience, demonstrating remarkable dedication and achieving impressive skills in just a few months.
What benefits does skateboarding offer seniors?
Skateboarding can improve balance, coordination, cardiovascular health, and emotional well-being in older adults, making it an excellent activity for maintaining overall health.
Where did the viral skateboarding event take place?
The skateboarding event took place near the Plaza de Marte in Santiago de Cuba, a historic and central location known for its cultural and social activities.