Last year, Lopez Island experienced an epic Skate and BMX event: The Retreat, by Skatelite. Highlights included the X-Games vert ramp, pro skaters and bmxers, live music, and a crowd that rivaled Fourth of July, all to celebrate the opening of the new Lopez skate park, generously donated by Richlite. Over the year, youth and adults alike have gained skills and confidence on the new ramps.

Recently, several locals took to the ramps to demonstrate their skate, bmx, and scooter skills. Line and SK8/BMX competitors ranged from five years old to adults.

With kids as emcees and with tricks on the half-pipe, spine, and off the stairs, it was a perfect Lopez skate event.

The winners were: Zander Gallegos, Josh Kramer, Owen Akopiantz, Lucas Reed, Kenny Hamlin, Zackary Mackinnon, and Mitchell Barr. Winners received T-shirts with the new Lopez skate park logo by Kevin O’Bryant. In addition to the talent on the ramps, there was a short film by Teus Rabel that featured several Lopez skaters.

To top it all off, we had the honor of a very special guest, Mr. Shawn O’Day. He and his wife and their Scotty dog enjoyed the show and the crowd. It was a rare treat to be able to thank him in person for this amazing gift he and Richlite have given our community.

Thank you to all who came out for the event and to those who participated. For those interested in purchasing a Lopez skate park T-shirt, please contact Shawn Westervelt at 468-4389. Shirts are $20. Money raised will help make it possible to hold this kind of event more often.