Tom Sims facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Tom Sims
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| Born |
Thomas Paul Simeon
December 6, 1950 Los Angeles, California, U.S.
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| Died | September 12, 2012 (aged 61) |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Inventor, Professional Athlete, Entrepreneur |
| Known for | Inventing the snowboard |
| Spouse(s) | Hilary Sims |
| Children | 5 |
Tom Sims (born December 6, 1950 – died September 12, 2012) was an amazing American inventor, athlete, and business owner. He is most famous for helping to create and popularize the sport of snowboarding. Tom Sims was a world champion in both snowboarding and skateboarding. He also started his own companies, SIMS Snowboards and SIMS Skateboards. He lived in Santa Barbara, California, for many years until he passed away.
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The Start of Snowboarding
Tom Sims was very creative, even when he was young. In 1963, when he was in 7th grade, he had a wood-shop class. He and his friend, John Murray, decided to combine their favorite sports: skiing and skateboarding. They built something they called a "skiboard." This was one of the very first snowboards ever made! Tom went to Haddonfield Memorial High School and was honored there later for his lifetime achievements.
A Champion Athlete
Tom Sims wasn't just an inventor; he was also a fantastic athlete. He became the World Champion Skateboarder in 1975. Later, he also won the title of World Snowboarding Champion in 1983. His skills helped show the world what was possible on a snowboard.
Snowboarding on the Big Screen
Tom Sims played a big part in making snowboarding popular around the world. In 1985, he was the main snowboarding stunt double for the famous spy "007" (Roger Moore) in the James Bond movie A View to a Kill. Seeing snowboarding in such a popular movie helped many people discover the sport. It made snowboarding look exciting and cool, encouraging more people to try it.
The SIMS Brand
Tom Sims founded his own companies, SIMS Snowboards and SIMS Skateboards. These companies made equipment for the sports he loved. Even after his brand grew very big, Tom stayed involved. He continued to help design and test new snowboards and skateboards. He wanted to make sure that the equipment was the best it could be. He kept working on new ideas for the SIMS brand until he passed away in 2012.
Tom Sims' Legacy
Tom Sims died on September 12, 2012, in Santa Barbara, California. He was 61 years old. He passed away due to heart problems. Tom Sims left behind a huge legacy. He is remembered as a pioneer who helped create and grow the sport of snowboarding. His inventions and athletic achievements changed winter sports forever.
