Nick Uhas on the Bustown Throwdown

Nick Uhas answers some questions about the Bustown Throwdown contest.

Q: How did the Bustown Throwdown get started?

Nick: The Bustown Throwdown started as a community event/outreach from WWHOTV the CW here in Columbus. After talking with the station manager and creative service director we came to the conclusion that a skate contest would be the best way to get people together and have a great time…a couple weeks later BAM!!! We have the Bustown Throwdown.

Q: Has the process of organizing this competition taught you anything?

Nick: Hahaha yes, a lot of things. The first would be when organizing anything, take initiative and make sure to follow up. The second would be to never make assumptions…never! Another thing I have learned in this process is that people generally like helping other people. Especially if your excited about what your doing, people respond in a very positive manner.

Q: How are these kind of events supporting the growth of inline skating?

Nick: These kind of events are the seeds of growth for inline skating. They get the younger generations exposed to the true professional athletes and create an energy from competition that will resonate and allow self progression even when the event is over. Also, these kind of events allow kids the route to accomplish their dreams, big or small. When I was just learning to skate the organization for armatures was called ASA or Aggressive Skating Association. This particular circuit was the only real way to turn “pro” and it gave a solid pathway and structure to obtain this feat. Now the ASA has been replaced with AIL (Amateur Inline League). This new circuit gives the same structure and pathway to the professional level contests, but has much more organized and systematic way of achieving this goal. With all that being said I will mention that The Bustown Throwdown is a sanctioned AIL event, and will provide this opportunity to all of its competitors!!!

Q: What does Columbus and The Flow skatepark have to offer inline skaters?

Nick: Columbus has a lot to offer inline skaters. We have close to 10 skateparks in the surrounding area of which all have unique skate architecture and can cater to all skaters, regardless of talent level. Also, The Flow Skatepark is like the mother of them all. This particular park has just about everything a skater could imagine to rol on. It even has a foam pit!!! The park is laid out with smaller ramps in the front (with very good flow) and a larger back portion with ramps of greater amplitude. Spending the day at The Flow is pretty easy because there is just so much good stuff to skate!

Thanks Nick