Sponsors sought for skatepark

Skateboarding is one of the fastest growing sporting activities in the world today. Recent figures show that there are more than 12 million skateboarders globally and this number is growing steadily, with the overwhelming majority of them, around 80 per cent, being younger than 18.

Now an NGO is considering boosting its popularity in the Lowveld with a purpose-built indoor skateboarding and extreme sport park. The only problem is a lack of sponsorship.

“I am really keen to put Mpumalanga among the forward-thinking provinces but I need help to attract sponsors,” said Tanya Ritchie, CEO of Extreme Sports Community Developments.

There are massive operating costs as well as funds needed to build and maintain all the ramps and rails. Sponsorship will also help to buy equipment for the entertainment corner such as a television and extreme sports DVDs that the children can watch.

According to Ritchie, donations would also be welcome.

Extreme Sports Community Developments NGO is soon to open the only indoor skatepark in the province. A number of government-funded ones have recently opened in various provinces. Richie aims to put Mpumalanga on the map in terms of extreme sports as the surroundings are conducive to this spectacular, adrenaline-filled activity.

Ritchie comes from a freestyle motocross background and has put most of her savings into this investment.

“The indoor skatepark we intend to open at Rocky Drift is a much-needed positive, healthy activity for local teenagers and there is no similar facility in the province. It will provide a safe terrain for the many people, particularly teenagers, who enjoy skateboarding and BMX bicycling,” she said.

“Research shows that positive youth activities that provide structure after school hours and attachment to community are critical for reducing high school dropout rates, teen pregnancy, drug use and juvenile crime. Born Biking Boards & Skate Park offers a “no violence, no drugs, no alcohol” policy and will be offered as a safe place for young people to gather, skate, relax and ultimately improve the lives of young people,” she enthused.

This non-profit organisation community development project will not only function as a skatepark, but will include a number of other activities.

Teenagers can eat outdoors under cover, play pool, watch extreme sports DVDs in the lounge area, also there will be a retail area for equipment and accessories. “We anticipate the result will be an enhanced sense of community pride and the confidence that ultimately builds local economies,” she said.

Local students also estimate that one-third of their peers skate and the number would double upon completion of the park. Ritchie also discovered youths in Mbombela had obtained more than 500 signatures to petition for such a venue to be opened. “With the assistance of sponsors we can now provide that venue.”

Operating costs for skateboard parks after construction vary, depending on policies, but costs are approximately R4,50 to R7 per square metre per month.

Branding and logos will be displayed prominently, providing a great opportunity to be part of youth development in the area.

“We also kindly ask people to donate their old skateboards,” she said.

“I am determined to make this work and I truly believe that this skate park will be a great success,” she added.

Enquiries: Tanya Ritchie on 084-620-7777 or Born.biking@yahoo.com