National Skateboarding Award Launched For Beginners
Skateboard GB are happy to announce the launch of the ‘Cruiser Award’ programme; which teaches first-time skateboarders how to master the skills needed to get the skateboarding buzz. This is the first national award scheme for people learning to skateboard, drawing inspiration from the established Bikeability and Learn to Swim programmes.
The award is aimed at beginner skateboarders who want to learn to skateboard, providing young people and adults the essential foundations, which include Stance, Balance, Pushing, Turning, Stopping and knowledge of Safety.
Participants taking the Cruiser Award will be taught the fundamentals of skating. At each stage they will receive a progress card (which provides info on how to practice that particular skill) and a sticker – which they can put on their board or helmet. Once the skater has completed the 6 stages, they will be presented with a certificate to show they have completed the Cruiser Award.
The programme is the result of over 12 months of research and planning, with multiple experienced skateboard coaches and skate schools providing their insight and it links to the principles which are taught in the Skateboard GB Get Rolling coaching qualification.
Skateboard GB partnered with Habito to develop the award, with the aim of enabling a structure for youngsters to learn to skateboard safely, following the huge growth in skateboard participation, after the premiere of the sport at the Tokyo Olympic Games last year, where Sky Brown won a bronze medal for Team GB.
James Hope-Gill, CEO at Skateboard GB, commented “It is really exciting to launch the Cruiser Award. It is something which will really help new skateboarders develop the rights skills when they first get on skateboard. The reward of stickers and certificate has shown to be a big hit with the younger learners too”.
Abba Newbery, CMO at Habito Mortgages, said: “In 2021, our research found that more than a third (35 per cent) of adult Brits have tried, or are looking to try skateboarding, and half (50 per cent) said they would encourage others to have a go at the sport. And for good reason; multiple studies have shown how skateboarding can improve participants’ physical health and mental wellbeing, as well as help foster community spirit. We’re thrilled to be partnering with Skateboard GB to launch the Cruiser Awards and encourage more people to grab a board, learn the fundamentals and just give it go!”
The Cruiser Award will be available later this month and will be delivered by Skateboard GB qualified coaches across the UK.
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