Three-day amateur skating event starts Friday

Justin Cameron wants to make Mount Pleasant known for skateboarding.

For this reason, Cameron, a Novi senior, and Todd Levitt, a local attorney, launched Skate War Inc., in 2007.

“The one day event brought over 1,000 spectators and skaters,” Levitt said. “It was overwhelming. We knew it would be big but had no idea just how big.”

Skate War II begins Friday and runs through Sunday at Island Park.

The three-day weekend includes more than 90 registered participants from all over the state, a professional skating and skateboarding exhibition, three days of live music and assorted food vendors.

“It’s ridiculous how much time goes into the whole thing,” Cameron said. “We want everyone to come out. There’s something for everyone.”

There is no cost to spectate, but there is a $15 registration fee to compete.

Prizes will be awarded to winners of each competition throughout the weekend. Giveaways include season passes to Boyne and Crystal Mountain as well as equipment from Jay’s Sporting Goods.

“Everyone in town has embraced Skate War,” Levitt said.

Local law enforcement, Emergency Medical Services, a First Aid tent and an in-house security team will provide security for the event.

Levitt said the three-day weekend will help keep visitors in town.

“All our sponsors and those helping have been phenomenal,” Levitt said. “The people involved have so much energy. It’s going to be huge.”

In 2009, Levitt plans to take Skate War competitions around the country. Top qualifiers will be invited back for the main and final show, hosted in Mount Pleasant.

“We want people to come to Skate War for the involvement,” Cameron said.

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