Skateboard Community Turns Out to Raise Money and Awareness for Amyloidosis

OCEAN CITY – As the Chip Miller Amyloidosis Foundation’s summer of fundraising and awareness continues, it’s clear that there is a passionate group of people willing to donate time and money for this great cause.
Their dedication was again on display July 27 as part of the Second Annual Skate Fest. Held at the OCNJ Skate Park, this ‘80s themed event drew lots of skaters and skate enthusiasts while offering dozens of prizes, good community interaction from OC’s men (and women) in blue and so much more.
Skate fest was launched in 2017 as part of the annual Chip Miller Amyloidosis Foundation schedule and through two editions has been a smashing success. Each year brings out more talented skaters of all ages, an increased prize pool, even more food and community involvement from the OCNJ PD and of course more eyes on the event and the cause!
2018 was no different for the CMAF and OCNJ Skate Park. The fun started early July 27, with registration and exhibition skate runs. Not long after, competitors were flying high, showing off gravity defying stunts, showcasing their ‘80s themed outfits, all while thrashing (and splashing) throughout the day.
The rain joke is appropriate, as it just further shines a spotlight on the dedication and commitment of the event guests. After a few hours of skating, a thunderstorm popped up and turned the skate park into a water park.
In an effort to get back to the fun even quicker, some parents in attendance visited the local supply store and returned with squeegees. After some effort on their part, the park was back to a skate able condition within 60 minutes following the conclusion of the storm. Talk about dedication!
“I think the Chip Miller Skate Fest is a great addition to the town of Ocean City,” noted Willie Fannon, owner of the OCNJ Surf SCHOOL and Ocean City Paddle Company. “It’s always amazing to offer events that bring the community together while creating awareness for conditions like Amyloidosis.
“The skaters have fun while also learning how to give back and get involved with causes and organizations like the CMAF.”
In all, the event raised $1,040, a total that’s up over last year with nothing but promise and excitement on the horizon for 2019. Award winners were:
2018 Skate Fest Award Winners:
Bowl Jam Divisions:
Groms (10 & Under)
1. Cullen Whelan
2. Jude McAfee
3. Scarlet McDermott
Kids (11 to 16) – prize for winner
1. Jake Dinan
2. Devin Flynn
3. Paul Woodring
Adults (17 to 40) – prize for winner
1. Kyle Walsh
2. Jackson Baylo
3. Ronnie Gordon
Girls (Open) – prize for winner
1. Zoe Henshen
2. Siena McDermot
3. Scarlett Pepper
Street Skate Jam:
Groms (10 & Under) – prize for winner
1. Cullen Whelan
2. Keegan Cameron
3. Scarlett McDermott
Kids (11 to 16) – prize for winner
1. James Wolfe
2. Jack Hammond
3. Jake Dinan
Adults (17 to 40) – prize for winner
1. Kyle Walsh
2. Ronnie Gordon
3. Jackson Baylo
Girls (Open)
1. Zoe Herishen
2. Paige Luyster
3. Carly Gleason
Mini Events:
Best ’80’s Costume/Outfit – Juddah Dawkins
Biggest Air – Devin Flynn & Carley Gleason
Highest Ollie – Kyle Walsh
Best Power Slide – Kyle Walsh
Most 360’s – Ronnie Gordon
Worst Fall – Guthrie – hospital all day and ended up being a sprained wrist
Best Trick – Jack Hammond