And Another Day to Remember!
Yesterday, May 25, 2024, Weiden’s skateboarding community came alive with the 3rd Annual Skate Contest at JUZ Weiden, held at Frühlingstraße 1, 92637 Weiden in der Oberpfalz. Skitch Skate Shop (Grafenwöhr) and JUZ Weiden, with the dedicated efforts of organizers Christopher Leach, Florian Graf, Christof Meier, Michael Ringer, and Christian Neidhardt, welcomed skaters from across Germany—Nuremberg, Regensburg, Cologne, and beyond—to compete for thousands of euros in cash and prizes. This electrifying event brought together athletes of all ages and skill levels, reinforcing Weiden’s status as a cornerstone of the Bavarian skate scene.
The competition unfolded at Weiden’s state-of-the-art skatepark, where diverse obstacles and a creative layout challenged skaters to push their limits. The day began with athletes paying a €10 entry fee and signing up in person at the SKITCH Pavilion next to the DJ booth, with registration for each group closing 30 minutes before their start time. Skaters under 18 provided a parent or guardian’s signature on the registration form, ensuring a smooth process. The event featured three groups, each delivering incredible performances. Group C (17 years and younger) kicked off the day, with sign-ups ending at 10:30 AM, a warm-up at 10:35 AM, and runs starting at 11:00 AM. Prizes for Group C fueled young talent, with 1st place earning a trophy and a €150 Skitch Voucher, 2nd place receiving a trophy and a €100 Skitch Voucher, 3rd place taking home a trophy and a €50 Skitch Voucher, and 4th place awarded a €25 Skitch Voucher.
Group B (18 years and older) followed, bringing seasoned skaters to the park, with sign-ups closing at 12:00 PM, a warm-up at 12:05 PM, and runs beginning at 12:30 PM. Their prizes rewarded experience, with 1st place securing a trophy and a €200 Skitch Voucher, 2nd place earning a trophy and a €150 Skitch Voucher, 3rd place receiving a trophy and a €100 Skitch Voucher, 4th place getting a €50 Skitch Voucher, and 5th place awarded a €25 Skitch Voucher. Finally, Group A (Open Registration & Sponsored) showcased skaters of all backgrounds, with sign-ups ending at 1:45 PM, a warm-up at 2:00 PM, and runs starting at 2:15 PM. This group competed for substantial cash prizes, with 1st place winning a trophy and €500, 2nd place earning a trophy and €300, 3rd place receiving a trophy and €200, 4th place taking home a €100 Skitch Voucher, and 5th place awarded a €50 Skitch Voucher.
The Best Trick session was a crowd favorite, delivering high-octane thrills as skaters went all out for a €150 prize pool, paid out in €5 bills. Described as a “no holds, crash and burn or thrash and win” spectacle, it was fun the whole family could enjoy, with jaw-dropping flips, grinds, and slides electrifying the crowd. Those who landed the most daring tricks earned cash and bragging rights. Beyond the competition, the event was a vibrant celebration of community. Live music from the DJ booth set the vibe, food trucks served up delicious bites, and the supportive atmosphere captured the essence of skateboarding culture. Whether competing or cheering, everyone felt the camaraderie that defines the sport.
The success of yesterday’s event, building on the legacy of the 2022 and 2023 contests, highlighted the explosive growth of Weiden’s skate scene, driven by Skitch Skate Shop, JUZ Weiden, and local skaters. The skatepark has become a hub for creativity and skill development, reinforcing Weiden’s place on Germany’s skateboarding map. As skateboarding continues to thrive, this competition has ignited passion in the next generation and set the stage for an even brighter future.
We’re thrilled to share a video recap of the event, crafted by talented videographers who generously volunteered their time. Watch it to relive the energy and excitement! The 3rd Annual Skate Contest was a triumph, and we invite everyone to join us next year to compete, connect, and celebrate Weiden’s thriving skateboarding culture!
