Skatepark Montebello

Skatepark-Montebello is laid out over a 161/2-acre area of land. At the present time, seven acres have been fully developed and an additional three acres are being completed for the advanced area. The remaining area has been reserved for future development. The owners here have recognized skateboarding as the sport that it is and have built a park that really reflects that thought, which will surely help secure its future as a sport.

One area that is evident is how the park is divided into beginner, intermediate, and advanced areas with color codes according to individual skateboarding ability. Skateboarders coming to the park for the first time will receive a "Skill Rating" based upon demonstrated ability. You will be permitted to use only that area within your assigned rating, and you must qualify to use the next level of proficiency.

Several days of each month will be set aside as "qualification days," and persons who wish to qualify for a higher skill rating can do so at that time. Check with the pro shop for details on dates and times.

The beginners' area covers 10,800 square feet and contains 190 linear feet of slalom runs, 1,000 square feet of freestyle area, and 600 square feet of bowls, plus a training area for beginners of all ages. The intermediate area covers 18,400 square feet, with 440 linear feet of slalom and drag runs, 800 square feet of freestyle area and 2,100 square feet of bowls.

The advanced area, soon to be ready for use, covers 103,000 square feet, including 2,450 linear feet of slalom and drag runs, 1,800 square feet of freestyle area, and 5,500 square feet of bowls. A 280' tow rope takes you to the top of the advanced area to a launching plaza. The advanced area will offer a stringent test of your skating ability, so get ready for it.

Membership is required to skate at Skatepark- Montebello. The membership fee is $3.00 before January 1, 1978, and $5.00 annually thereafter. You will receive a lifetime registered plastic membership card, along with advance notice of all upcoming events and notice of occasional member specials. Applications can be obtained at many shops selling Hang Ten skateboards and apparel.

Admission to ride at the park is $1.00 per hour at present with a two-hour minimum. Boards must be equipped with sealed bearings on the intermediate and advanced courses, and safety equipment may be rented in the pro shop for 25 cents per item.

A well-stocked pro shop is on the premises, featuring a wide variety of high quality skateboarding equipment.

The course pros can give instruction for all phases of advancement and groups can arrange for group lessons. The snack bar serves various light snacks and soft drinks, and a lawn picnic area and tables are available. A party room is also available.

The game arcade includes pinball, foosball, video, a pool table, and air hockey. The machines are periodically rotated to bring in new ones.

The entire park has been extensively landscaped, and spectators can walk throughout the park and see the action up close for a charge of $1.00 per day. Lounge areas are also provided around the park.

A very advanced lighting system, providing 20 vertical foot-candles of illumination, ensures virtually shadow-free night riding. Skatepark-Montebello has been designed with many advanced ideas for skateboarding, and should provide everyone from beginner to pro with a truly challenging course.