The Independent
On Saturday, July 11, at 10 a.m., the 19th annual Virgin River Skimboard Classic Competition will take place at the waterfall, located at the intersection of 2700 East and Waterfront Drive in St. George, where flatland water is ideal for skimboarding. Competitors will compete for prizes in five age divisions: 16-18 years, 13-15 years, 10-12 years, 9 and younger, and an open divison.
Similar to surfing but also incorporating elements of skateboarding, skimboarding was conceived in the ocean waters of Southern California. However, inland skimboarding—which Utahns enjoy—originated in Sacramento in the mid-1970s. Locally, the sport has been heavily influenced by California residents who relocated to Utah. Unlike coastal skimboarding, inland skimboarding requires only shallow water, which makes it possible to enjoy in rivers, lakes, pools, or even flooded fields.
Skimboards are smaller than surfboards. They are flat and thin, with no underside fins, and resemble large skateboards without wheels. Like skateboarders, inland skimboarders are able to perform tricks, such as ollies, flips, spins, shuv-its, and body varials. Unlike surfers or skateboarders, skimboarders first set their boards down or throw them onto the water, jumping onto them while they are moving.
The event is family-friendly, and the location is similar to a desert beach. Those with no experience are encouraged to come out to the river and give skimboarding a try.
The registration fee for the competition is $25, or $21 for participants who pre-register. Pre-registration ends Friday, July 10, at 6 p.m., and those who register by that time will receive an event T-shirt. There will be a late fee of $5 for those who register after July 10 at 10 a.m.
Competitors can register at the St. George Recreation Center, located at 400 East 285 South, or at the St. George City Commons, located at 220 North 200 East. To pre-register, please call (435) 627-4560 or visit http://www.sgcity.org/departments/recreation/youthsports/skimboarding.php.
