Franz explained that she approached Marola with the idea.
"With no budget, a month to plan and many eager children, we begged, borrowed and, well begged and borrowed some more from the community. Wow! The response was incredible!" enthused Franz. Children from Plettenberg Bay, Knysna and George attended the inaugural skate camp, held from Friday, April 29 to Sunday, May 1 at George Skatelab (the only skate park on the Garden Route). Parents and children happily camped directly opposite the Skatelab. "The park was opened to us on Friday for a night skate, the whole of Saturday (which included a competition and prize-giving ceremony) and Sunday morning," told Franz. With Marola’s assistance and nurturing, some children who had never been on a skateboard before were skating up and down ramps by Sunday.
Every child received a prize, which included; skateboard decks, caps, T-shirts, shoes and stickers as well as a trophy sponsored by Office Supplies Unlimited. "Thanks to sponsorship by famous skater brands Volcom and DC Shoes," said Franz. Skateboarding has become increa-singly popular for children six years and older, offering a safe and neutral environment for children from all walks of life. "It also provides a platform for undiscovered talent," explained Franz.
South Africa was recently selected as the host for the Maloof Money Cup (the biggest skateboard competition in the world, with a first prize of R100 000), for the next three years running.
The competition will be held in Kimberley.
Franz explained that "the future for Garden Route Skateboarding looks bright, as at least three skate camps per year are being planned.
With Alan Marola on board (no pun intended), and hopefully the possibility of a skate park in Knysna in the near future, we will be able host these," explained proud mom, Franz.
"A big thank you must be said to all our sponsors as well as all the moms for their support, and Alan Marola for his dedication and assistance with the children."
For more information regarding Garden Route Skateboarding and future camps, contact Megan Franz on 076 274 8958 or Marissa Smuts on 084 238 8671.
The first Garden Route Skateboarding camp was held at the Skatelab in George recently. The camp was arranged by Megan Franz and Marissa Smuts from Knysna.
