A handful of youngsters didn’t mind taking a few lumps at the Brookswood skatepark this week.
That’s because the end result would make them better skateboarders.
Part and parcel with a camp hosted by Recreation Excellence and taught by 16-year-old Sammy Vankevich were occasional tips and tumbles onto the pavement.
Vankevich taught the ’boarders basics such as “ollies” (jumping in one place where all four of the skateboard’s wheels come off the ground, usually the first trick attempted by a beginner skateboarder) and safely moving up and then turning down banked ramps at the park.
“I’ve already taught one camp and it was a ton of fun and we’ve had nothing but good response,” said Vankevich. “The kids really loved it and improved their skills.”
Vankevich said once a skateboarder gets the basics down, “it’s all about progressing from there. Balance and committing are the big things.”
The next camp for skateboarding newbies ages six to 12 is Aug. 24 to 28, from 9 a.m. to noon each day.
To register, visit the office inside the George Preston Recreation Centre, which is situated next to the skatepark, or call 604-530-1323.
Helmets are mandatory, and elbow pads and knee pads are highly recommended.
