Skateboarding competition takes over the North Van bike park

A new event coming to North Vancouver will give skateboarders from across the province the chance to show off their skills on a track normally reserved for high-flying cyclists.

On June 23, the Pump Track Skateboard Challenge, hosted by North Vancouver-based skate and bike company Landyachtz, will take place at Inter River Park in North Vancouver. According to Landyachtz vice president Ryan Theobald, the event will showcase the best skateboarding talents and celebrate the sport’s spirit of creativity, athleticism and camaraderie, adding that the challenge should provide an exciting display of skill and style.

Participants will get the chance to show off their speed and control at the Inter River Bike Skills Park, a paved pump track normally filled with bikes and not boards.

“A pump track is a purpose-built track for bicycles with a circuit of rollers, turns and features designed to be ridden entirely by riders using a pumping motion to generate momentum,” said Theobald. “This means riders use up-and-down body movements instead of pedaling or pushing. It is designed to challenge riders with its turns and obstacles.

However, the Pump Track Skateboard Challenge offers a whole new spectacle on the asphalt.

“Racing on pump tracks is exciting for participants and spectators, and it appeals to all styles of skateboarders,” said Theobald. “Pump Tracks are a great place for riders to improve their skills and confidence, the event provides a platform for riders to showcase their skills. We can’t wait to see the incredible talent and see who completed the fastest lap.”

During the event, riders race against the clock to set their fastest lap and qualify for a top-10 shootout. The winner of the fastest lap in each category will receive a cash prize.

This is the second of five pump track challenges that Landyachtz is organizing across the province this year. Registration for participants is now open and there are a limited number of places available.

Pump Track Skateboard Challenge

When: June 23, 9am – 1pm

Where: Inter River Park, 1101 Premier St., North Vancouver

Info and registration: landyachtz.com/pump-track/

Fatemeh Falah is an intern reporter at North Shore News. She can be reached via (email protected).