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15 years of thrills
By EMILY NIPPS, Times Staff Writer
Published January 18, 2008
TAMPA - Skatepark of Tampa is celebrating its 15th anniversary this week, an impressive milestone for a place that caters to a small, but passionate underground community. ¶ Since opening in January 1993, the park has evolved from a slapped-together facility for a few skater kids to an internationally known skateboarding landmark. The site also includes Transitions Gallery, a popular space for young artists and local musicians. ¶ The owner of it all, Brian Schaefer, was only 21 when he conceived the skate park, born out of desperation when a warehouse in Drew Park that housed skateboarding ramps closed. He rented out space in a warehouse complex and built his own ramps. Now, at 36, he owns the property. ¶ This place was always a natural fit for the city, Schaefer said recently, adding that this is the type of underground haven that will live on for decades. "In the culture of skateboarding," he said, "everything just recycles itself." ¶ Here is a look at some memorable moments in Skatepark of Tampa history.
If you go Skatepark of Tampa's 15-year anniversary party is8 p.m. Saturday, at the Czar Bar, 1420 E Seventh Ave., Ybor City. Bands include the Hold Steady, Fake Problems and Young Livers. All ages are welcome. The cost is $10.
1993
1994
1997
1999
2007
2006
2005
2004
2003
2002
2000
1998
1996
1995
2008
Skatepark owner Brian Schaefer, below, is knocked unconscious during a trick on the loop; the video plays on national television and YouTube
Skateboarding resurges in popularity
1993 to 1999 - Skateboarding experiences a downturn in popularity among kids
Skateboarding icon Tony Hawk, left, invents the kickflip 540, a signature trick, at the park
Skatepark featured in Tony Hawk's Underground video game
Skatepark of Tampa opens
First local concert held at Skatepark/Transitions Gallery
Nike announces it will sponsor Skatepark's competitions
EDMUND D. FOUNTAIN Times William Byrd, 10, right, of Tampa skateboards at the park last week. An anniversary party is Saturday.
Skatepark of Tampa highlights
Skatepark hosts its first amateur and professional competitions. At left, Donny Barley prepares for the Tampa Am competition.
2001
Photo by Alanna Gabin Employees and friends build a mini-ramp to replace the park's old skate bowl.
Photo by Pete Thompson
[Last modified January 17, 2008, 08:09:10]
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