Tony Hawk helps unveil a BC Interior skate park expansion

The Town of Smithers was buzzing on Thursday as the latest expansion of the community’s skate park was tested by some special guests.

Making a surprise appearance at the park’s demonstration was legendary skateboarder Tony Hawk, who then showed the packed crowd his skills.

The legendary skateboarder remains the most recognizable name in the sport and is known for completing the first documented ‘900’ skateboarding trick (two and a half full revolutions in the air).

“Hey, what’s up, Smithers? It’s Tony Hawk. Someone told me there’s a skate demo happening at your new park, that’s pretty cool, I may have to check it out,” Hawk said in the social media post uploaded on Thursday to announce his arrival.

Hawk was not the only well-known skateboarder to be at the event, he was joined by Jake Braun, Greyson Fletcher, Olympian Lizzie Armanto and Olympic medallist snowboarder Mark McMorris.

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A post shared by Smithers Skate Park Society (@smithers_skatepark)

According to the Smithers Skate Park Society (SSPS), the town’s skate park was first built in 1996 and at the time was the only dedicated skate park north of Kamloops.

Through fundraising and multiple partnerships, SSPS began its expansion project of the park in 2022, with the latest expansion recently being completed.

“Congratulations to the Smithers Skate Park Society on the opening of the skate park,” stated a post from the Town’s social media account.

“This project was years of dreaming big, hard work, fundraising and community partnership.”