Heart of the Rockies Rampage Starts July 18 – by Floyd Rovano

The Heart of the Rockies Rampage event kicks off tomorrow at 5 p.m., July 18, at the Fun Street Family Arcade at 243 F Street. The party runs until 8 p.m. and is the first of three days of events.

The “rampage”, organized by the Chaffee County Community Foundation and sponsored by World Cup Skateboarding, is a three-day festival held to raise awareness about the Salida Skatepark and the benefits a skatepark can bring to a community. It runs from the 18th through the 20th.

Pro skateboarders will be on hand for the kickoff celebration and meet and greet guests. There will also be a silent auction. Never Summer snowboards, Badfish surfboards, and gift cards to local restaurants and shops will be up for auction. In addition, Carrots, a short film by local videographer Walter Molitor, featuring local professional skateboarder Derek Scott, will premiere.

Events on July 19th and 20th will take place in Centennial Park along Holman Avenue, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The 19th will feature grom (young skaters) and AM events, on the street and in the bowl, with awards ceremonies at 4 p.m. The 20th will feature women’s, pro and masters events, with awards ceremonies, again, at 4 p.m. Pro division participants will receive cash prizes. There will also be food trucks and a beer garden for spectators.

An afterparty will take place from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Highside Bar & Grill at 300 West Sackett Avenue.

Heart of the Rockies Rampage participant in 2023. Photo by Carly Winchell

“Our sponsors make it possible to highlight the positive impact skateparks have on local communities by drawing attention to our local park and providing a professional-level event for Salida,” said Derek Scott, Rampage Community President. “This event not only fosters local talent, but also brings world-class competition to our community, increasing the visibility and importance of skateboarding.”

One parent, whose 10-year-old son competed last year, said her child’s personality has “blossomed” and his skateboarding hobby has also boosted his academic confidence. “It’s not every day that your child gets to meet his heroes.”

Participants of all ages and skill levels can register online or in person at the event. Groms and amateurs must pay $25 to attend; all adults must pay $50. Spectators are invited to purchase VIP admission for $25, which includes preferred seating and free drink tickets. Otherwise, all events are free to attend.

World Cup Skateboarding has been developing and organizing skateboarding competitions around the world since its inception 20 years ago. More than 20 events are organized on five continents, including the United States, Brazil, Switzerland, Malaysia and Australia.

For more information and online registration, please visit the event webpage here.

Main image: Opening day of the new Salida Skatepark. Photo taken by Mayor PTWood. Courtesy of Instagram.