Local skate park to host Back To School Jam

FLINT (WJRT) -- (08/27/08)--Wednesday's sunshine brought dozens of skaters to the Flint Skate Park. Just a few months after it opened, we wondered how it's going in its new location.

The park's been up and running since the start of summer when the city of Flint bought the ramps from Grand Blanc.

By all indications, it's going well. So well, in fact, it's growing and will host a competition this weekend, which is expected to attract skaters young and old.

"My name is Coty Like," said Coty Like. "I've been skating for almost four years now."

At 8 years old, Like is one of the youngest -- and most protected -- skaters at the Flint Skate Park.

"I just feel like all the other kids," he said. "I've learned some of my best tricks out here."

He and his aunt Lisa couldn't be happier the city bought the ramps from Grand Blanc earlier this year.

"It was the best thing for the kids," she said.

"This is probably the best skate park I've ever been to," Like said.

On sunny days, the park attracts a faithful crowd, both young, and old, and experienced and inexperienced.

"All the pavement's new. The setup's a lot better," said skater Andrew Davis. "It's the best park around here that's outdoors and free."

With no major reports of crime nor vandalism, the park seems a success.

"I've never seen any problems here," Davis said. "Nobody's gotten mad at each other."

"They always help me, give me tips," Like said. "Give me my board back when I fall."

Respect for the equipment and those on it seems to mirror a respect for the sport.

Here are the details on the weekend Back to School Jam: It'll cost $15 and feature three divisions: beginner, intermediate and advanced.

Proceeds will benefit the skate park fund. Look for registration at 10 a.m. and the competition at 11 p.m.

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local, josh devine

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