Phil Shao (December 28, 1973 - August 23, 1998) was a goofy-footed professional skateboarder and journalist from Redwood City, California.
[7][8] Shao graced the July 1996 cover of Thrasher magazine with a smith grind on the top rail at Fort Miley.
[14][15] In addition to skating, Shao worked at Thrasher magazine as a copy editor.
[14] Shortly before his untimely death, Phil was informed he was to be named Editor of Thrasher Magazine.
[17] On August 23, 1998, Phil Shao died in a car accident in Arcata, California.