The second annual Cali Am Jam Skateboarding series hits the Central Valley this June. What began as a Central Valley Skateboarding series has now expanded all over California, attracting people from all over the U.S., including top amateur skateboarders such as Miles Silvas, Jacob Walder and Zach ‘Ducky’ Covacs to name a few.
The series is one of the only free community events of its kind, and is quickly gaining popularity, says the event's co-founder Robert Ferguson.
“Skateboarding is the spine of the event and designed to provide a platform for all ages and abilities to showcase their skills with [an] international presence. For those who don’t know how to skateboard, this is a chance for them to come and learn,” says Ferguson.
The series aims to encourage kids to stay active while expressing themselves. Ferguson hopes to provide the younger generation with new platforms and opportunities that he did not have as a kid.
“It is highly important to re-edify the youth and get them more involved with the community whether it is skateboarding, filming or lending a hand and being creative,” said Ferguson.
This year, he says, “It’s all about awareness.” Each event and location in the series is helping to spotlight and support causes such as autism, cancer and diabetes. In addition to creating awareness for these causes, “There will be something special at each stop,” says Ferguson. The final stop will include an obstacle course set up by the Marines, a break dance competition hosted by Javier Moreno Jr., and a basketball camp with WMBA star Jean Morris.
Every location will host several activities from skateboarding and break dancing, to painting and comedy shows in addition to family fun and fitness sections provided by non-profits.
This years prizes will include cash rewards for the elder age groups. For younger age groups, prizes include scholarships to Camp Woodward, the ultimate outdoor camp with international recognition. While each age group has different awards, Ferguson says that everyone attending the event will leave with a good feeling in their hearts and free products in their hands.
Each Event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Cancer Awareness:• May 31 – Mather Park, Rancho Cordova
Diabetes Awareness:• June 28 – Tennyson Park, Hayward
Supporting those with Autism:• July 26 – Smynra Park, Ceres
Awareness on all the above:• August 30 – Crane Park, St. Helena