Grom contest supports Rocker Memorial Skateboard Fund

More than 40 young skateboarders took to the Truckee Skate Park this past Saturday to compete in a grom 16-and-under contest that served as a fundraiser for the Rocker Memorial Skateboard Fund.

The fund is dedicated to raising money to build a new skate park in Truckee in honor of Steve “Rocker,” a longtime Tahoe resident who lost his life in an avalanche while snowboarding on Donner Summit in 2012. Rocker was known for his vibrant and positive outlook on life and his love of music, skate and snowboarding. He was a true “local’s local,” known and loved by all.

Organized by Dave Burright, the fundraising contest was a great success, drawing several hundred spectators in addition to the large group of competitors.

Local board shop Totally Board was on hand serving barbecue hamburgers and hot dogs, while sponsors such as Santa Cruz, Board Wizard, Lost, Creature, Thrasher Magazine, Circa and Volcom donated prizes, and local band Flip The Record provided live music.

Professional announcers Edgar “Pineapple” Rivera and Emil Janicot called the action, and judges Steve ‘O’ Brockway and Dane Leonard evaluated the performances. USASA representatives Karen Mertl and Randy Mertl also donated their time for the event.

To donate to the Rocker Memorial Skateboard Fund, go to Rockermemorailskatepark.org.