After taking the tumble, cursory testing by pressing and prodding ruled out any possibility of broken bones. Just that the right hand was a little painful. I was more afraid that if I packed up and went home, I will have an insurmountable fear of coming back.

After a couple of minutes of rest, went back to the spot and kept trying. Obviously I was inordinately afraid and focused on not falling again. The first three attempts, I aborted before re-mounting. Succeeded with the fourth one eventually.

Here is the first successful re-mount.

Let this be a warning to all 54 year olds trying to learn how to skateboard!
Tried practicing how to mount off, push with left leg and mount on again (and keep repeating). Within five minutes took a fall. Front foot was too far forward – the board pivoted on front wheels and swung – throwing me off the board.

Scraped some skin and the right palm and middle finger hurt for some time (the right arm hit the concrete first) – but after a few hours, I was okay.

Fortunately, I had chosen a time when nobody was there to laugh at me.

Need to go back there soon and try again…