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Skateboarding glory rolls through Tampa event

By BOB PUTNAM
Published March 11, 2006

Think about all the great skateboarders who have taken their sport to new heights: Bob Burnquist, Bucky Lasek and Danny Way.

Now think about this: they all have performed in Skatepark of Tampa's annual pro competition.

Opened in 1993, Skatepark of Tampa has become one of the premier venues on the East Coast with a professional contest that is a main attraction for some of the sport's elite.

"Name a top skateboarder and they've probably been here," said Ryan Clements, general manager of the park.

Some of skateboarding's top talents will be on display today through Sunday at the 12th annual Tampa Pro at Skatepark of Tampa. The event features top riders in a variety of competitions, including street performances and a best trick.

Unfortunately, established stars such as Burnquist, Lasek and Way will not be there.

"There's just too much money in other competitions," Clements said.

That doesn't mean the event will be devoid of top pros. To make the competition more appealing, past winners automatically advanced to Sunday's semifinals. That list includes Kyle Berard, Eric Koston, Andrew Reynolds and Tony Trujillo.

Another skater to keep an eye on is Ryan Sheckler, one of the most popular young street skateboarders out there. Sheckler, 16, was the only competitor to land every trick he tried during the 2003 X Games.

WHEN: Today-Sunday

WHERE: Skatepark of Tampa, 4215 E Columbus Drive.

ADMISSION: $5 per day.

INFO: 813 621-6793 or www.skateparkoftampa.com

[Last modified March 11, 2006, 01:44:05]