I'd like to thank all the neighbors who came out to watch my first solo attempt at holding a family friendly/sporting event in the city of Chicago.
I'd like to thank the 26 competitors who came from all over the Untied States to compete. We had snowskaters come from Pennsylvania, Minnesota, Michigan, Wisconsin, Northern Illinois and Alaska. From as young as 14 years old, (Timmy Jenkins/Gladstone, Michigan - 3rd place High Ollie, third photo/green shoes) to some twenty-something wild-man from the suburbs. He's the one flying out of control in the top photo. I would bet he's sore today. Timmy was so excited to beat his hero Isaac Hebert, his dad's eyes were tearing up as they celebrated. Then to watch Isaac go over and congratulate the young kid on his great performance, well folks, that's the stuff that makes sports so great. It's those split second moments in life you'll never forget.
I'd like to thank the 1/2 dozen or so media outlets that came out to cover the event. The skaters were all pumped up to see the sport grab such media coverage. All the competitors said they were coming back next year.
I'd like to thank the Leona's Pizza in Rogers Park for allowing us to take over the dining hall for our awards presentation.
To me, the biggest surprise was my lone Chicago entry Michael Dunfee Jr. from Rogers Park. Papa Dunfee helped me keep the snow groomed between the skaters jumps. All the while his son had a blast sliding on the snow for three and a half hours. Maybe next year we'll have a few more kids from the city give it a try?
During the event I had one energy drink company pimping their products without my permission and two Chicago companies that wanted to sponsor the event next year.
I think the Chicago Park District liked the event too? They were keeping a eagle eye on me all day.
Excellent photos by Tom Mannis at the Bench.
Ditto to Michael Dunfee.
Results.
2 comments:
Craig,
Thank YOU for putting on such a great event for families and kids. The weather was good; you timed it just right! Everybody there was having such a good time. We need more events like this in Chicago. No big special interests involved, nothing political, just good clean fun. Nice job, Craig.
What a great event, Craig.
While you are often criticized as only griping about the negative aspects of our community, this is clearly a positive effort.
I hope you will make this an annual event. It is the kind of family activity that is good for our community.
Congratulations!
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