California Dreamin’

07/16/2008

After a long flight to Los Angeles, the Frost Valley Skate Team headed north to Element YMCA Skate Camp. There was the obligatory visit to In-N-Out Burger on the way north and they arrived just in time for opening campfire. Monday and Tuesday were full of action with almost the entire day devoted to skating. There was also a swim test on Monday for those afternoon opportunities to cool off as well as a barbeque today for lunch.

Of course, each person has come along with their own skill level and Skate Camp has something for everyone. A great piece of their program is a morning stretch which everyone must attend before breakfast before any skating begins. After that, they break off into groups to work on specific skills. Matt has been spending time at Elementland working on his ollie which has been coming along nicely. David has been joining Matt in that endeavor while also dropping in on the mini-ramp at times. Christina and Brendan are right back on the mini-ramp where they spent a lot of time last year. Christina has been showing the boys how it’s done and picking up some new tricks. Brendan has been working hard too which of course means that there have been some good spills. It’s a good thing that Skate Camp has their padding rules in effect. Any counselor or camper can call out any other camper or counselor if they don’t have on a helmet, elbow pads, and knee pads. Ray has been thankful for that rule as well since he has been working alongside Brendan. As for Adam, he has been “all over the place” according to Sheldon. Whether it is the Street Course or the mini-ramp, he’s been trying it all. Be sure to ask about their night sleeping at the half pipe, hanging out with pro-rider Ronnie Gordon, and their skit from Wednesday night.

Thursday will be another day for skating and also brings an opportunity for a great hike in King Canyon National Park which surrounds the camp. No pictures yet as the internet connection at camp is too slow, but there should be some on the way next week if nothing else. Be sure to check back for another update in a few days.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Zach eigenbrodt

Born and raised in Wisconsin, Zach couldn't keep himself out of the woods when growing up. He started working at a Northern Wisconsin YMCA Camp as a wilderness trip leader while in college and fell in love with getting kids into nature. The smiles on kids faces after returning from a once in a life time wilderness experience is why he is here today. Zach brought his talents to Frost Valley YMCA, in 2014, when he started as the Trips Coordinator and soon was promoted to Adventure Director. Zach loves all forms of Wilderness exploration, though some would say his heart lies most with canoeing.