Pro skater films TV show in Havasu
Highlights effort for new park

The effort to develop a new skate park in Lake Havasu City is getting some national attention, courtesy of a professional skateboarder and punk rock musician.

“A couple of people reached out to me, that they’re trying to get a park built,” Mike Vallely said. “When someone reaches out it compels me to do something.”

That something is filming Vallely’s television show “Drive” for the Fuel TV network in Lake Havasu City and focusing on the work being done by the Tinnell Memorial Sports Park Committee.

Vallely, a 20-year veteran of professional skateboarding, arrived in Rotary Park Sunday and immediately began skating with the gathered teens. He offered tips on tricks and listened to what the skaters would like to see in a new park.

“This is so cool,” said Julie Sasseen. “My oldest son Daniel wrote to Mike but it didn’t get to the right address. But that doesn’t matter as long as he’s here.”

Sasseen’s other son Colin, 14, died last year while skateboarding in his driveway, when he tumbled into the path of an oncoming car. An area of the new park is being named in Colin’s honor.

Vallely will tape interviews with Julie, Tinnell Committee chair Rachelle Duncan and Mayor Mark Nexsen today. Then at 2:30 p.m., Vallely heads back to Rotary Park to ride and talk with boarders and bikers.

Vallely said the activity provides a positive outlet for young people at an especially rebellious point in their lives.

“I think when you have someone that skateboards with a passion they have an extra incentive. They don’t want that taken away from them and in a good family situation, with caring parents, that can make the difference,” he said.

Vallely said he was pleased to see bikes and boards coexist in the small space Lake Havasu City currently has for riders and looks forward to more projects where the two disciplines complement each other.

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