BMX + Skateboard + Rollerblade
The majority of teenagers who choose to BMX/skate/rollerblade as a sports activity have been overlooked in the provision of facilities within our community. They wish to have a better, safe and modern space to hangout and train. Some local teenagers have a passion to become professional extreme sports competitors. In order to develop their athletic skills to a professional level they need quality facilities of an international standard.
Strandhill is known internationally for its calibre of surfers, amazing breaks and established surf community. The greater Strandhill community have benefited hugely from the economic increase in tourism from this sport, the majority of jobs locally being supported by this seasonal activity. Surfing and skateboarding are intrinsically linked and beneficial to each other from a marketing perspective (where one is, the other follows). When there are no waves or when weather conditions do not permit safe surfing the amenity of a skatepark would be hugely beneficial to our teenagers, their families, the local community and tourists alike. This activity can be promoted throughout the entire year with the provision of a combined indoor and outdoor skatepark arena.
Skateboarding/BMX/Rollerblading are proven exciting spectator sports, which have a strong core following amongst teenagers and young adults in the local community. Ongoing efforts to provide DIY facilities for themselves have yet to find support from the Sligo County Council despite previous efforts to communicate their needs and aspirations.
However this petition/plea to the local authority demonstrates their ongoing dedication and commitment to their chosen sport.
The existing village playground facilities are a fantastic addition and achievement by the local community but unfortunately do not address the trans-generational age gap, ie.10+, the children upon which fundraising was initially raised. These children (now teenagers) find themselves at a loose end, without a focal point/ area for them to channel their sporting energy and socialize.
Please support our petition to develop facilities for our next generation of extreme sports enthusiasts !!!
