LA TIMES

"Skate and Shoot"

August 15, 2003

"Who is the most fearless person involved in the X Games? It may be Todd Grossman, an ESPN cameraman who shoots on skates.
Grossman, 26, a graduate of the USC film school, will use a hand-held Steadicam mounted to his waist as he shoots the in-line skating, skateboarding and bike stunts held on the Park Course located in the parking lot across from Staples Center.
Holding the camera is the easy part. The hard part is skating along with the competitors, on all the jumps and obstacles.
Grossman, a former in-line competitor, has been doing this kind of camerawork for several years, shooting documentaries for his own production company. ESPN got wind of him and hired him for these X Games.
He is unique. ESPN has used cameramen on skis at the Winter X Games, but having a cameraman on skates is a first.
Of course, it's dangerous work. Grossman says the first thing you learn in in-line skating is how to fall. That's one thing. Learning to fall with the camera in your lap is another.
"I've been hurt a few times, and have the scars to show for it," Grossman said. "But I've always managed to save the camera."
At least he has his priorities in order."