Local and international skateboarders will converge at the Central Coast’s largest riding facility, BATO Yard, to contest the 2018 ‘King of Concrete’ championship event being held on 10 February 2018.

The event – now in its second year – is anticipated to attract more international participants and spectators following the highly successful inaugural event in 2017. Riders will be participating across five categories – Opens, 16 years and under, 12 years and under, Girls and Masters.

Riders will compete for their share of $5000 in prize money and the chance to secure a wildcard entry into Bowl-a-Rama in Bondi Beach the following week.

Event organiser and current Australian Masters Champion, Renton Millar, said the event is world-class, and attracts some of Australia’s best riders, along with international competitors.

“Last year’s winner and inaugural BATO Yard ‘King of Concrete’ was Nitro Circus US shredder, Beaver Fleming, whose tricks blew everyone away,” said Mr Millar.

We also had big names like Clay Kreiner and reigning Games Vert Gold Medallist, Sam Beckett, along with 2017 Vert World Champion Poppy Olsen,” he said.

“Along with the prize money on offer, this is a tremendous platform for the best local riders to make a name for themselves and compete for a national ranking. BATO Yard has some great local riders including Matt Kitai and Bryce McKean and it is great for these skaters to get a stage in their hometown and compete against some of the best skaters in the world.”

“I was fortunate to have input into the design of BATO Yard and am excited to bring this competition to the Coast, said Mr Millar.”

Council Director Assets, Infrastructure and Business, Mike Dowling, said the event was another feather in the cap for BATO Yard — one of the biggest and most diverse facilities in Australia, which has seen tens of thousands of visitors since its opening in 2016.

“This event is a great opportunity to come and see the best of our local talent compete alongside world-class riders”, Mr Dowling said.

“Spectators come from all over Australia, supporting our local economy and gaining insight into the many wonderful attractions the Coast has to offer.

“I urge all riders and skating enthusiasts to book the date, 10 February 2018, in their calendar now as we head into peak skateboarding season.”

Registrations and event information can be found at Facebook.com/Kingofconcreteaustralia