Last weekend, on the 22nd and 23rd of October,UK Vert Seriesthe Blockless Combat event took place in Birmingham. The UK Independent Vert Series isn't about being overly competitive; it's about skating vert and having a good time. The final competition was held at Creation Skatepark in Birmingham, attracting skaters from across the UK, including names like Jazz Gordon, Stan Bhargava, Ethan Doody, and many others.
The UK Vert Series includes 7 events at various vert skate ramps around the UK. The first event was atSkaterham Skatepark, second event at Ramp City, the third at St Neots, the fourth atSouthsea Skatepark, fifth at Spit and Sawdust Skatepark, sixth at Mount Hawke Skateparkand the final event atCreation Skatepark.
This year, the events were sponsored by Aquapax,Etnies, Deez Nuts hardware, HOAX, Xeorgrid, Bawbags underwear, Andale bearings, Hazard wheels, and Madness Skateboards.
The Blockless Combat event featured 4 categories: Group A Males, Group B Males, Women, and Masters over 40s.
The winner of Group A Males was Louis Newman, who is sponsored by187 killer pads, Bones wheels and Powell-Peralta, with Jack Wallbridge in second place and Tay Cunningham in third. In Group B Males, the winner was Stan Bhargava, with Chester Pegg in second and Cameron Marlow in third. The Masters category was won by Greg Nowik, followed by Christopher Hudson in second and Sean Kelly in third.
The Women's category was won by Annalise Lam, with Caitlin Cox taking second and Olive Newman coming in third.
What is Vert Skateboarding?
Vert Skateboarding involves riding yourSkateboardon a ramp that is nearly vertical. It requires a great deal of skill and practice to tackle the challenges of vert skating. It might not surprise you to learn that vert skateboarding began in swimming pools during the 1970s when surfers used pools to try to replicate wave riding on land.
Vert skaters start in a horizontal position at the bottom of the vert ramp or drop in from the top, gradually building speed as they propel themselves from one side of the ramp to the other until they execute tricks from a vertical stance.
How to get Started?
Once you've found a ramp and have the right skateboard, you'll need to equip yourself with protective gear.
This includes Helmets, Knee Pads, Elbow Pads and Wrist Guards. Having the right Skate protective gearensures you have fun while staying safe. The next step is to learn how to fall because, let's be honest, you know it's going to happen. Make sure to land on your knees and slide down the ramp.