Archive for November, 2004

Montclair Skatepark Grand Opening

Monday, November 8th, 2004

Montclair Skatepark Grand Opening

Lance Mountain Breaking in the Montclair Skatepark

Lance Mountain Breaking in the new Skatepark

Words and Photos by Ray Zimmerman - MRZPHOTO

On Saturday 11/06/04 the Montclair Skatepark had its official grand opening and as expected there was a large turn out for this event. Sure, skaters were excited about the new park but the buzz was also around the legendary skaters that were going to be there . The list was impressive but in order to get to the skating first the formalities had to go down. Darleen Hartman the Chairperson of the skatepark Committee gave a speech thanking everyone who made the park possible and then some awards were handed out.

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Montclair Advocates Prince Gilchrist
and Sean Morgan
Two local skaters Prince Gilchrist and Sean Morgan received plaques for their efforts in making the Montclair skatepark a reality. These guys attended every meeting, and helped raise money for the park and are great examples of SoCal skatepark advocates. Miki Vukovich the Executive Director of the Tony Hawk Foundation received an award for the foundations $10,000 sponsorship of the skatepark. Montclair Kiwanis, Warehouse Shoe Sale, the Montclair Chamber of commerce, Montclair Firefighters Association, and so many others were recognized for there donations.

Mayor Paul M. Eaton spoke and said a prayer of thanks and then acknowledged many key figures. Then ceremoniously, he opened the gates to the skatepark and the skaters that were there rushed inside to hit the new terrain. Once the skating started there were smiles all around and I heard nothing but positive comments from the skaters.

After some of the locals broke in the new skatepark the demo crew finally showed up. Steve Alba, Micke Alba, Lance Mountain, Christian Hosoi, Pat Ngoho, Eddie Rategui and a long list of others proceeded to rip the new bowls. I have to say it was really something looking toward the shallow end and seeing all these guys together . It reminded me of the old contest days in the early 80’s . Well, its 20 years later and these guys are still doing it BIG.

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Micke Alba getting inverted
Looking 16 again
I have to share one other moment before pressing on into the day. Micke Alba’s son was standing at the edge of the bowl. He’s a little guy. I’m guessing 4 or 5 years old. Next thing I know the little guy sets his tail and is ready to drop in . You could see the hesitation in his eyes . We’ve all been there. Dad gives him some words of encouragement and he drops. The shallow end erupts with tail tapping and shout-outs. He skated to the other side with the biggest smile ever. I’m not sure who’s smile was bigger his or Micke’s. I did mention who was in the shallow end didn’t I? What a great moment.

This set the tone for the day. The pros took a break from skating and signed posters and videos for the crowd . I’m sure everyone who attended this event enjoyed the day. Purkiss Rose did a great job with the design of this park. I over heard that Steve Alba had a hand in the final design. Good job guys, this park will no doubt be a must skate on everyone’s list. A big thank you to all the people involved with making this park a reality . A special thanks to Mike Hirsch @ Socalskateparks.com for giving me the golden ticket.

I would like to thank Ray for helping me out and covering the Montclair Grand Opening. You the man Ray - MH

Related Links
Montclair Skatepark Grand Opening Photo Gallery
Montclair Skatepark Details
Salbaland
The Firm

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