News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
Registration is open as McMinnville’s free skateboarding clinic returns to the city skate park on July 17.
Parks and Recreations Program Coordinator Michael Benuches said the clinic is intended for kids beginning to skate. Benuches said this is an annual event because of how many kids want to be part of the growing skate scene.
“We have around 10 to 20 skaters come each day, towards the end of the day when it’s not as hot outside,” Benuches said. “In the past when we’ve done this clinic we’ve had anywhere between 30 and 45 participants show up for one Saturday.”
Benuches said a big part of this clinic being possible is through community partnerships. He said Vivid Skate Shop is on board to provide the training, with safety gear being provided by a different community member.
“We’ll also be providing free helmets from Dr. Peterson’s office here in McMinnville, he owns Pinnacle Orthopaedics,” Benuches said. “So we’re going to harp on the safety part of it with providing helmets for all participants. As well as safe techniques for getting used to riding on a skateboard without any help.”
Benuches said reservations can be made by calling (931)-473-1212. He said depending on the kid’s age, they will get a designated time for the clinic.
“Children between the ages of 6-12 are going to be from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM and then there’s going to be a second session for children 6-12 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM,” Benuches said. “Then all others ages 12 and up are going to be at 11:00 AM.”
Benuches said there will be a waiver for parents to sign when they drop off their child at the city skate park. Benuches said that participants just need to bring their own skateboard and a willingness to fall down and pick themselves back up.
