Nelson can celebrate in style this year for the annual International Skateboarding Day.
The newly minted skate park will see full action on Saturday June 21 with the Nelson & District Youth Centre (NDYC) hosting a fundraising hotdog sale and activities.
Skateboard Ambassador, Matt LeBlanc, (NDYC’s summer staff) will be in attendance at various times at the park from now throughout the summer break. Matt will also be running skate camps starting July 7 for two to four weeks operated through the NDCC. See the Leisure guide for details.
As with all new ventures teething troubles arise when new users are unaware of established protocols. As part of his role, LeBlanc will aim to help implement those ground rules for everyone’s safety and enjoyment. In the meantime, below are some general skatepark guidelines for users of the park and their parents or guardians.
Wait your turn and watch out for others.
Everyone needs to be aware of his or her surroundings at all times to avoid collisions. This includes watching what others are doing and how they are riding the obstacles.
All obstacles at the park are intended for riding.
The ledges and the flat bottom areas are part of the riding surfaces and not meant as sitting /standing/watching areas. All obstacles were meant to be used a certain way so be aware and learn the appropriate lines.
Follow the flow of traffic.
Skateparks tend to flow in a certain direction. Riding against the flow is dangerous and may cause collisions with those using the park properly. If you’re unsure of the pattern or flow, sit back and watch how others are using the park or ask a local. Cutting across the park can also be risky, go around the perimeter or wait for an appropriate time to cross, the flow of traffic has the right of way.
Avoid marathon runs.
An occasional long run is acceptable but otherwise be considerate of other users. Watch what other riders are doing and make sure your turn is around the same length as theirs.
Adult/parent supervision is advisable.
Just like any other recreational centre, an adult should accompany young kids at all times, especially those who are beginners and/or new to the skatepark.
Ride at your own risk.
The skatepark is a fun place, but there is a risk of injury. The activities at the park involve high speed movements on hard surfaces and there are several risks associated with this due to the potential of falls and collisions. Keep in mind that our community collaborated to build an advanced skatepark, which is not always the best place for beginners to start riding.