The Day Our Salty Nation Took Over the Beach
Some days just have a buzz in the air from the moment you wake up. That was the vibe at Alexandra Headlands during the Chiggy’s Skateboarding comp we proudly supported. The skate park was alive with energy, the salty breeze from the beach was drifting in, and the sound of wheels hitting coping mixed perfectly with the crash of waves.
We rolled in with our Barefoot & Salty balance boards, ready to bring some fun between heats, and it turned into one of the best community days we have ever had.
The Scene
Picture this. The skate park packed with groms in helmets and knee pads, parents leaning on the railings, and the Chiggy’s crew running the show with that same local love they are known for. Right next to the park, just a short wander from the sand, we had our Barefoot & Salty set up. Boards lined up, rollers stacked, and a crew of curious kids gathering before we had even finished setting down the mats.
Skaters Meet Balance Boards
While they waited for their turn in the comp, kids were jumping on our boards to warm up their legs and practice tricks. Some were using the 5 cm roller to get the feel of balancing before moving up to the 8 cm or 10 cm for more challenge. The fearless ones went straight for the 15 cm roller and the cork ball to test their limits.
We watched skaters mimic their ollies and spins on the boards, turning downtime into training time. Parents were snapping photos, mates were cheering each other on, and every now and then a skater would hop off, high five their friend, and then roll straight into the skate bowl for their run.
Why It Worked
The comp was already buzzing, but having our boards there meant there was no lull in the energy. Kids who had never tried a balance board before were instantly hooked, and plenty of seasoned skaters told us it felt just like being on a deck but with a whole new set of challenges.
It was more than just fun. A few parents told us their physios had recommended our boards for strength and coordination, especially for kids with autism or ADHD. Seeing them using the boards with the same stoke as the other kids, laughing and cheering along, showed exactly why we do what we do.
Supporting Local and Living It
This day was not just about us. Chiggy’s Skateboarding is a local business we are proud to sponsor because they live and breathe the skate culture here. We both believe in giving kids a space to learn, grow, and find their crew. The skate comp was the perfect backdrop for our little nation of balance boarders to show how surfing, skating, and balance training all blend together.
The Takeover Moment
By mid afternoon, the skate park crowd had spilled over to our set up. Kids, parents, and even a few of the older skaters were jumping on and giving it a go. The sand around us was packed with footprints, roller marks, and more laughter than you could count. People were leaving asking where they could grab a board, and we had that feeling you only get when you know you have just sparked something bigger than yourself.
Why We Will Do It Again
Because this is Barefoot & Salty. Bringing people together, moving our bodies, sharing the stoke, and supporting the locals who make it happen. You can copy a product, but you can never copy the feeling of a day like this.
And if you are looking for someone to teach your groms, or even yourself, Chiggy’s is the place to go. They run lessons for all skill levels and even have an indoor skate park, so the fun never stops no matter the weather. Click here to check out their socials or head to their website here.