Mark Baker is a man who has worn many hats throughout his life. Pro skater, nightclub owner, and juice purveyor are just a few of the titles he could claim. His life has been a whirlwind of adventures and experiences, from running away to join the circus at 9 years old (yes you read correctly) to skating with the legendary Z-Boys and owning nightclubs in the heart of New York City. Today, he finds himself in the tropical paradise of Bali, where he runs a successful juice bar and restaurant.
Early Days and Skating Prodigy
His circus aspirations were short-lived, but the experience undoubtedly instilled in him a sense of fearlessness and a willingness to take risks.
It was around this time that Baker discovered skateboarding. What began as a hobby quickly blossomed into a passion. He possessed a natural talent for skating and a dedication to honing his craft. By his teens, Baker was already turning heads with his skills. At 15 years old he was asked to join Tony Alva and the Z-boys to travel and demo across England. It went so well he followed Alva back to California. He made a name for himself and was plastered on the cover of Skateboard! Magazine several times.
It was here that he fell in with the Z-Boys, a legendary group of skaters who revolutionized the sport by taking it from the streets to empty swimming pools. Baker fit right in with this crew of talented and innovative skaters. He pushed his own limits, developing a signature style that was both powerful and crazy. He rightfully earned the nickname “Mad’ Mark Baker.
From Skating to Nightclubs: A New Chapter in New York City
By the mid-1980s, Baker decided to take a break from professional skateboarding. He set his sights on a new challenge: the world of nightclubs. He moved to New York City, a city that pulsated with energy and opportunity. Here, Baker poured his creativity and drive into opening and running several successful nightclubs.
The nightclub industry was a far cry from the world of skateboarding, but Baker’s entrepreneurial spirit and knack for spotting trends proved to be valuable assets. His nightclubs became popular nightspots, attracting a diverse clientele and helping to shape the city’s nightlife scene.
Island Life and a Return to Wellness
After a decade in the fast-paced world of New York City nightlife, Baker began to yearn for a change of pace. He craved a simpler, more balanced lifestyle. In 2002, he made another life-altering decision and moved to Bali, Indonesia.
Bali offered Baker the peace and tranquility he sought. He immersed himself in the island’s culture and embraced a healthier way of living. This newfound focus on health and wellness led him to open a juice bar and restaurant, Beachgarden-In the Raw, which quickly became a popular spot for locals and tourists alike (since closed).
A Life Less Ordinary
Mark Baker’s life has been anything but ordinary. He has chased his passions with unwavering determination, from skateboarding to nightclubs to healthy living. Through it all, he has maintained a sense of adventure and a willingness to embrace new challenges.
– J. Greenwood
