Large crowds attend grand opening of ‘The Skatey McSkateface’

August 8, 2019 by Leigh-on-sea.com

The Skatey McSkateface was officially opened at the weekend, with large crowds on site to watch professional and local skaters, BMXers and scooterists run some sets on Southend’s new skatepark.

The event started with a speech from The Worshipful The Mayor, Cllr John Lamb, giving a speech to the crowd of onlookers. Skate park builders, Maverick, then hosted a number of competitions for different age groups for skateboarders, BMXers and scooter riders.

Alex Decunha, Team GB Olympic Skateboarder, wowed the crowd with some intricate skateboard tricks, and Team Rubicon BMX rider Harry Boucher was bouncing across the park on his bike. Sponsored scooter riders Taylor Tait and Cobie Wenyon-Chambers showed they have bright futures in the sport with some fast paced scooter tricks.

There were stalls for Maverick, Make Southend Sparkle and ForwardMotion, with portable toilets and free drinking water available for the duration.

Cllr Kevin Robinson, cabinet member for business, culture and tourism, also attended the event. He said: “The Skatey McSkateface Jam was a fantastic event and I am sure everyone who attended would agree. Maverick were superb and they really made sure that everyone joined in on the fun.

“The facility was built to create a space for residents to become active and involved, and the event on Saturday has really given the facility the sort of exposure that can make a huge difference to people looking to start a new sport or event just trying to stay active. Huge thanks go to Maverick and everyone involved in making it one of the events of the year.”