Youth from five municipalities and organizations are once again being given an opportunity visit skateparks across central Alberta this Saturday, June 10, 2023.

The third annual Central Alberta Skatepark Tour is an event hosted in collaboration with Red Deer County, the Town of Sylvan Lake, the Town of Innisfail, Youth HQ, and the YMCA of Northern Alberta. Each of the organizations has pre-selected youth to participate in the event. The group will travel to skateparks in Lacombe, Sylvan Lake, Innisfail, Springbrook and to the Glendale Skatepark at the YMCA in Red Deer.

“The tour is an exercise in cooperation between different groups and is guided by the creative planning of the participating youth, we are pleased to work together with our partners to support innovative opportunities like the skatepark tour," said Lindsay Norrie, Red Deer County Community Services Coordinator. 

“We are incredibly proud to support grassroots skateboarding programs throughout central Alberta” said Tim Nelson, owner of Industry Skate & Snow. He continued “Programs like the Central Alberta Skateboard Tour increase and promote an ownership for youth in the sport.” 

This program would not be possible without support from local business, including the 5024 General Store, which is located in Lacombe and the events key sponsor, Industry Skate & Snow.

Youth planned the tour with the objective of developing positive and meaningful relationships with their peers and mentors and raising awareness of the impact and benefits of skateboarding/scooter riding.

Additional goals include:

  • encouraging a form of self-expression and promoting an active lifestyle
  • enhancing the reputation and awareness of the skateboarding community
  • supporting the development of safer and more welcoming spaces for youth within their communities