Charlotte Hosts Exciting Skate Competition
CHARLOTTE, NC – A vibrant skateboarding competition took place at UNC Charlotte’s Star Quad on November 21, showcasing the talent and community spirit of student skaters. The event, hosted by Nicholas Pratt III and Dillon Syhavong, brought together participants and spectators for an afternoon of thrilling performances and camaraderie.
The Event Details
The event unfolded in a lively atmosphere as dozens of skaters participated in semi-finals and finals. Participants showcased their best tricks in a spirited format where competitors aimed to avoid spelling the word “SKATE.” Each skater who failed to land a trick received a letter, and the first to spell out the entire word was eliminated from the competition.
A Strong Sense of Community
For those involved, this competition was more than just a contest; it highlighted the deep bonds formed through skateboarding. Syhavong expressed the essence of the event, saying, “I just wanted to bring the community together; everybody here is together with each other.” The event emphasized that winning was not the only goal; the real victory lay in the friendships formed and the support felt among participants.
Skaters’ Backstories
Among the skaters, many shared their personal journeys into the sport. For Logan Hodgins, a second-year student who has been skateboarding since childhood, the quad has become a second home. Similarly, James McKenna, who began skateboarding in high school, noted, “Skateboarding is like a break from school and volleyball.” This outlet allows them to escape the pressures of daily life and enjoy moments with friends.
A Warm Welcome
For newcomers like Pratt, the quad offered a welcoming environment that quickly fostered a sense of belonging. “The skaters were very welcoming and inviting and wanted to meet me,” he said. The atmosphere buzzed with friendly competition, allowing skaters to connect and share their love for the sport.
Thrilling Performances
As the competition progressed, spectators watched in awe as participants executed a variety of tricks, earning cheers and applause for their skills. The videographer present captured every moment, documenting the collective energy that filled the air. Skaters pulled off impressive tricks, from Ollies to kickflips, captivating the crowd.
The Final Showdown
In a nail-biting finish, Hodgins edged out first-year student Harrison Massey, collecting just three letters compared to Massey’s four. The crowd erupted in celebration for both finalists, but Hodgins’ flawless trick at the end secured his victory. He credited his consistent practice and passion for skateboarding, saying, “I practice a lot every day, so I came into it with all my tricks out.”
Conclusion of the Event
The event concluded with an overwhelming sense of achievement not just for the winners but for all participants. As Syhavong pointed out, “If we did not have this, people would be skating on their own.” This contest was not solely about competition; it was a gathering where skills were honed and friendships were celebrated. The vibrations of skaters’ boards echoed along the red bricks, signaling a successful day for the skateboard community at UNC Charlotte.
