Skateboarders hone in on skills
SKATERS across the Clarence Valley have been learning new tricks thanks to a series of clinics being offered across the region.
Hosted by Skateboarding Australia (SbA) the clinics are a great opportunity to learn from some of Australia's leading skaters.
Targeted at younger kids, free events are being held at Yamba, Maclean, Wooli, Copmanhurst and Coutts Crossing this week and Yamba's skatepark was busier than usual yesterday with about 30 kids aged from four to 13 enjoying some one-on-one coaching from Melbourne-based skateboarder Scott Standley.
"The clinics give the kids tips on safety and skater's etiquette as well as teaching them the basics and helping them to improve their skills," Mr Standley said.
He said the program also provides access to quality boards, helmets and pads, so even kids without the essential gear can give it a go.
"Skateboarding is really big, especially in this area," he said
Nine-year-old Clay Penman from Palmers Island said it was great to ride a "good" skateboard and said he and his mates couldn't wait to have another go next time the clinic was in town
"I don't have a board like this at home," he said.
Ari Bradley, also from Palmers Island, agreed.
"I hope I can go to the next one; it's been really good," said Ari.
Today kids in Wooli will get a chance to pump and grind at their new skatepark with a clinic from 9am and an afternoon session 12.30pm.
On Tuesday the clinic moves on to Coutts Crossing and Grafton, finishing in Copmanhurst on Wednesday.
For more info or to register for a clinic, visit sba.org.au.
