[2] Growing up in the suburbs of Chicago, Ortiz had a knack for skateboards when he received his first one from his cousin at age six.
Although acquired his interest at a young age, his real competitive upbringing was in the footsteps of his dad; Mark Ortiz, through wrestling.
[3] The same year, he took the second-place spot in the Volcom Damn Am contest, behind Scott DeCenzo.
Since then, he has been regularly finishing in the top tier of many events and has been selected to compete in Street League Skateboarding with the best skaters around the world.
[6] Chaz Ortiz turned pro at the age of 14 through Zoo York, and has since then accumulated sponsorships from Zoo York,[7] DGK, Ricta Wheels, Krux Trucks, Mob Grip, Bronson Bearings, Shapes Wax, Uprise Skateshop, Ethika, and OC Ramps.