source: Castleganews.com

West Kootenay skateboarders, scooter riders and BMX’ers tore up the pavement at the first Gnar in the Gar competition.

The event, which was primarily sponsored by Black Russian Skate owner Josh Evin, featured live music from DJ Dexter, Mr. Smith and DJ Cedar.

Although it wasn’t planned there was a competition for youth on racing scooters as well as a competition for the few BMX bicycle riders who were on hand.

“We weren’t planning, but I figured that if there were enough of them there and they wanted to take part, why not? And it was cool to get everyone in the park involved,” he said.

The event drew around 25 skateboarders, some BMX bike riders and some racing scooter enthusiasts.

Evin said the event was a success, however, he was hoping there would be more skateboarders from the Grand Forks and Nelson areas.

“All in all, I think a lot of kids from Castlegar showed up and they all had a good time,” said Evin.

All those who participated were able to get some sort of prize for their efforts.

After the afternoon of cool tricks and great music, the group headed to the Old Castle Theatre for an all ages show which featured, among other things, skateboarding movies.

“It was awesome,” said Evin. “Their new HD projection machine is amazing and we played some really good music,” he said.

The show was attended by 40 people, a number Evin said will improve in the years to come as word of the competition gets around the West Kootenay.

Evin is hoping to put on another skate event at the indoor bowl in Salmo this year if not he assured that there would be another outdoor show next summer in Castlegar and maybe even in Slocan.

“Thanks everyone for coming out and everyone who pitched in to make the event a huge success,” Evin said.