The popularity of a fun Fracas at Kanakas competition and the Kanaka Skatepark in general is giving fuel to a plan to expand the 20-year-old amenity.
“The plan is to have more of a street-style area extending the skatepark into where the swing set is by the TASK area,” said Angelo Scaia of the Salt Spring Skatepark Society. “This will add a bit more variety to the existing park, which consists mostly of transitions. It will also be great for beginners.”
The skatepark society spearheaded the drive for the original park, which is on School District 64 property but owned by the Capital Regional District (CRD). The island’s Lions Club stepped up in a big way with a $100,000 donation in 2004 to ensure the park could be built.
While Scaia and fellow society member Tristan Scarfo told the Salt Spring Local Community Commission (LCC) at a meeting last month they are not looking for LCC/CRD funding for the estimated $350,000 project, they do hope to receive approval and advice on how best to proceed. Scaia and Scarfo said funds will come from non-profit organizations, local businesses and the families of young skateboarders.
The Gulf Islands Board of Education has given approval in principle to the project, and the LCC passed a motion for staff to bring a report back to a future meeting.
A recent Fracas at Kanakas competition saw non-stop action at the park, with top-three winners in beginner, intermediate and advanced categories claiming prizes. In the beginner category, Hudson finished first, Ivy second and Woodrow third. Intermediate skaters saw Joseph Deboucherville in first place, Jasper in second and Graham in third. Advanced division winner was Leo Powers; Mike Rogers came second and Aidan Ruurs third.
Scaia was grateful to Scarfo, John Sayer and Patrick Powers for their help with organizing the Fracas, along with Katie Burke on sign-up, Nick Abley on the barbecue, DJs Graham van Pelt, Ben Frey and Raf Katigbak, emcee Jordan Ettinger and all the local businesses that provided sponsorships for the event.