What We Are
Few competitions are created solely for snowboarders and skateboarders under the age of 18 and even fewer put those riders in the spotlight. The Great Northwest Gromfest (“Gromfest”) is an event like no other. Not only does it celebrate the past and present of the sports it features, but also supports the future. By donating proceeds to non-profits that use alternative sports to benefit kids, we are helping to assure a bright future. Gromfest will take place at Whistler, British Columbia July 12th-16th 2009.
Why We Were Created
Gromfest was created as a way to showcase the talent of those that make the alternative sports industry what it is today, namely the youth. Even with tons of snow and skate competitions throughout North America what makes Gromfest really stand out from the competition is that proceeds from the event will be donated to non-profits that give youth the chance to learn how to ride and skate.
What The Event Will Consist Of
Gromfest has competitors from all over North America heading to Whistler to compete. The competition will be casual and laid back where the mission is not so much to win, but to have a good time and compete because you love the sport.
For 2009 Gromfest will consist of two parts: a skateboard competition and a snowboard competition.
Skateboard Competition: Set to take place at the Squamish Skate Park, the skateboard competition will have both a bowl course as well as a street course. In addition, various “best trick” competitions will take place at the Whistler Skate Park.
Snowboard Competition: Gromfest has teamed up with Camp of Champions to hold the snowboard competition on their terrain. The event will spread between two days and consist of a halfpipe competition, slopestyle competition, a rail garden and a “best trick” competition.
Who The Money Is Donated To
For 2008-2009, two recipients were chosen to receive the funds raised by Gromfest: “Snow Days” and the “Patrick Kerr Skateboard Scholarship.”
Snowdays Foundation: Snowdays Foundation is an all-volunteer organization dedicated to youth empowerment through snowboarding. They provides life skills through snowboarding for various youth in the Portland metropolitan area. By working through challenges on the mountain, students gain self confidence, strengthen friendships and also have an opportunity to become more aware of their natural surroundings. The organizers of Snowdays have all gained from snow sports, learning to respect and care for the mountain environment, understand the benefits of healthy lifestyle choices and appreciate the joy that snow sports can bring. Snowdays hopes to pass this knowledge, excitement and passion to the students. (www.snowdaysfoundation.org)
The Patrick Kerr Skateboard Scholarship: The nation's only college scholarship program for skateboarders. The scholarships are awarded to students who have been activists for skateboarding and have shown leadership skills in their communities. This scholarship was founded by Liz Kerr in memory of her 15 year old son, Patrick, who was an avid skateboarder, an honor student and was very involved in the Love Park movement in Philadelphia. (www.skateboardscholarship.org)
Who Funds Us
All of our funding comes from companies that support alternative sports and the alternative sports lifestyle. With our administrative costs being fairly low, our donors and sponsors will know that not only are they receiving publicity for their contributions, but that their funds are going directly towards supporting worthy non-profits.
