The Des Moines Streetstyle Open will introduce adaptive skateboarding for the first time during its multi-day contest from September 19-21. The event, which takes place throughout downtown Des Moines, will culminate at the Lauridsen Skatepark.
This groundbreaking inclusion of adaptive skateboarding represents a significant step towards greater accessibility and recognition in the sport.
Event details
The Des Moines Streetstyle Open is structured as follows:
- Dates: September 19-21
- Location: Downtown Des Moines, with the final contest at Lauridsen Skatepark
- Format: Multi-day skateboarding competition
Professional adaptive skateboarder Dan Mancina emphasized the importance of such contests in a news release, stating, “Adaptive contests like these are important to show skateboarding as an option for others with similar disabilities. They also are a great stepping stone towards our push to get skateboarding into the Paralympics.”
Adaptive contests like these are important to show skateboarding as an option for others with similar disabilities. They also are a great stepping stone towards our push to get skateboarding into the Paralympics
Significance of adaptive skateboarding
The inclusion of adaptive skateboarding in this event serves multiple purposes:
- Raises awareness about skateboarding as an option for individuals with disabilities
- Provides a platform for adaptive skateboarders to showcase their skills
- Supports the movement to include skateboarding in the Paralympics
Future implications
The debut of adaptive skateboarding at the Des Moines Streetstyle Open could have far-reaching effects on the sport’s inclusivity and growth. As more events incorporate adaptive categories, it may lead to increased participation and recognition of adaptive skateboarding on a broader scale.