Skatepark competition expands
Following the success of last year’s event, the committee of Drouin have expanded on its BMX competition to also include scooter and skateboard disciplines.
Each discipline will include beginner and intermediate classes, while the scooter and BMX events will also include an open class.
Registrations for the event will open at 2pm, with competition to get underway following the Ficifolia Festival parade.
Event organiser Keith Cook said the event will conclude at 7.30pm, allowing participants and crowd to make their way for the family movie to be held in Civic Park.
He said scooter and skateboard disciplines had been added to make the event all inclusive.
“The Ficifolia Festival has had plenty of activities for the kids and the adults, but not teenagers between 10 and 18, so this fills that gap,” Mr Cook said. “Last year we had 650 spectators.” Mr Cook said the event had encouraged mentoring, with those new to the sport able to practice their skills.
“What we’ve found is the older and more skilled ones have been mentoring the kids,” he said.
“No longer are the kids going to the skate park to just hang out, they’re practicing their skills and learning how to get involved with the sport.
“There’s a lot of sports available in this Shire, but they’re mainly team sports.
“This caters for people that may not necessarily choose the team sports, but still want to develop their skills.”
Mr Cook said the event, run by the Committee for Drouin, had been well-supported by local business and a grant from Baw Baw Shire Council.
He said place-getters in each class would receive a trophy and prize, while open class competitors would be competing for a minimum cash prize of $300.
Full safety gear, including a helmet and gloves, is required to compete in the event.
Entry cost for beginner and intermediate classes are $5, while entry for open class events cost $20.
For more information, visit the Drouin Skatepark Competition Facebook page.