Skateboarding and festival a good mix
Porirua made such a success of the national skateboard championships last year, it’s been given the job again.
The event will be held at Te Rauparaha Park on Waitangi Day, February 6, in conjunction with the all-day Festival of the Elements.
Organiser Joel Middlemiss said being given the championships for the second successive year endorsed Porirua as a class act.
‘‘Porirua is right up there with the best in the country,’’ he said. ‘‘We have a great skatepark, a group of local boarders with huge potential, the support and backing of the community and the Festival of the Elements. The whole thing is awesome.’’
He said some sponsors probably treated last year as a trial run for Porirua’s local organisation.
‘‘Sponsors need to know they’re going to get something back for their money, but they’re all happy with what we achieved last year and are prepared to support us again.’’
The championships will attract some of the best boarders from around the country and even some from overseas.
Among local riders expected to do well are Dan Popata, Mitch Jago and Ashley Smith.
‘‘It’s great to see the growth and potential in New Zealand skateboarding and to have it showcased right here in Porirua,’’ Middlemiss said.
He also paid tribute to the Festival of the Elements organisation, which has played a large part in making it possible.
‘‘The festival is its own success story and is the biggest Waitangi Day celebration in the country.
‘‘It supports us and allows us to merge with their celebrations,’’ he said.
‘‘We’re grateful for that and for the buzzing atmosphere the festival provides.
‘‘It couldn’t be better.’’