Unit 23 Open 2014

Unit 23 Open LogoSo, there were a few names down for this little known event in an obscure park somewhere in Scotland. Thought I’d head up to see what it’s about. I knew it was going to be a long weekend so rather than brave the dubious Unit 23 sofas I went for the safer option of camper in the carpark (which came with the added bonus of late night toast). Turned out alright in the end.

Well, with names like Montre Livingston, Josh Glowicki, Fredrik Andersson, Alex Burston and many more in the building, it’s no surprise that the level of skating was high. With these guys though it also meant the vibe was competitive but friendly. This perspective ran throughout the day, including all the competitions. I think the youngest category received the biggest cheers (partially bolstered by the mums and dads no doubt, but still). A great day as always put on by Scott Quinn and the Unit 23 staff.

So the story goes that after a good night’s Honey fueled sleep, and sweet breakfast, I took a few photos…

Oh yeah, and some random traveler called Anthony Medina knocked together an edit

Livi Skate Party 2014

It’s back. Having taken a break from the scene since 2007 the Infamous Livi Skate Party has returned. Though I can never imaging it returning to the parties of old, with drinking, camping, skating, barbecues, more drinking a bit of skating and a bit more drinking, it’s definitely back. A much more family friendly form has returned this year, including a full under 16 competition to not only win prizes on the day, but also to qualify for entry to the Slamm Jamm New Blood comp held at Rampworx later in the year.

From my first visit to Livi in 2005 I have always loved the atmosphere at this park. Since the event stopped a couple of years later through lack of support (though no lack of effort from organisers) the park has undergone a rather extensive and controversial expansion. This has however added more variety to the park and helped the event to be a little more rounded in the competition capacity. It has still however managed to retain the relaxed and fun attitude that makes it one of my favourite events in the UK calendar.

Anyway, what you came here for – the photos I got on the day. There’s not a massive number due to the 13 hours of driving needed to get there and back in a day, but you get the idea…