The Central Coast’s largest riding facility will be hosting one of the biggest skate competitions in the region to find how who will be named the inaugural King of Concrete Champion.

Bato Yard will be hosting this prestigious event in the King of Concrete skate series for bowl riders on Saturday 11 February.

The competition will see the best riders from all over the region – even the state and country – competing not only for a share of $5000 in prize money but for wildcards into the Bondi BOWL-A-RAMA, the peak world bowl competition that celebrates the skateboarding culture and attracts international pro riders, such as Tony Hawk.

Event organiser and former world champion, Mr Renton Millar, said holding a King of Concrete round at Bato Yard gives top bowl skaters from the Coast a chance to showcase their skills.

“Our team can’t wait to get up to Bato Yard,” Mr Millar said.

“I was a part of the original workshops and had a say in the design of Bato Yard, so it’s exciting to bring these competitions to the Coast and watch the community improve their skating skills.

“Bato Yard has the potential to attract top riders from around the country to the Central Coast as well as other major skating events.

“You already have well-known riders Matt Kitai and Bryce McKean travel the country doing what they love, and now they can do it in their own backyard.”

Riders will compete for $5000 in prize money as well as giving the chance to three junior riders and the top two masters and opens riders to compete in the popular Bondi competition on 18-19 February.

Council Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, said the facility was delivering on its promise to attract world class events and providing important opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

“Since its opening, the riding facility has seen thousands upon thousands of people come through and test their abilities on some of the rare features the Yard has to offer,” Mr Reynolds said.

“Bato Yard was built for local riders and to attract major competitions to our great region, just like this one.

“Last month we had a YMCA skate event that was so popular they are looking at holding it over two days next year.

“It’s certainly becoming well known as one of the premier riding facilities in the region, if not the state.”

The King of Concrete skate series is a national event that has really injected energy into the bowl skating scene in Australia and next week’s event is one not to be missed.

Street riders will also have a chance to show off their skills when the team brings the King of Street competition to Bato Yard on Saturday 22 April with winners getting a chance to win a share in $5000 and a pathway entry to an event in the USA.

For more details on what’s happening at Bato Yard, visit centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/batoyard