Issue link: https://bluemagazine.uberflip.com/i/25123
- Ireland does not have the pristine weather and skateparks of California, II II II and Belfast poses unique problems for skateboarders. On the off chance it is not raining, the streets are often too rough to skate and the choice of skate spots is limited. Skating is further complicated by the sectarian divisions that make many neighborhoods dangerous, not only for skaters but also for outsiders. Skateboarding in Belfast is neither trendy nor cool. The skaters endure the harsh climate, limited terrain and negative attitudes because they love to skate. In April 1998 the voters of Northern Ireland approved the Good Friday peace accord designed to end the violence that has plagued the British province for 30 years and claimed over 3,200 lives. But after more than a year of political wrangling, the peace process is still not fully implemented. The Irish people are trying to move beyond three decades of tragedy but, despite the significant improvements in Northern Ireland, violence continues to be a way of life. Chris Anderson, who works at a local shop called Project Skates hop, echoed the sentiments of many residents, "Things are definitely moving in the right direction, but it will take years and years to change. When hatred is bred into kids for generations, it tends to die a slow death." Amidst the turbulence of Belfast, a small but growing group of skaters can be found cruising the streets. Politics has never been an issue amongst them. Skating is above politics. Resident skateboarder Gareth Rowell says, "In any other country in the world no one cares whether someone is Protestant or Catholic. Here, people have been taught to hate and they buy into it. Our scene is about having a good time together rather than buying into the hatred. It's our lives." The pubs in the city center are neutral territory, in contrast to the surrounding neighborhoods where pubs are often controlled by paramilitaries and are off-limits to skaters. Locals told me I probably wouldn't be beaten because I'm not Irish, but they most likely would. The bombs may have stopped, but the kneecappings haven't. Belfast is not what you would call a supportive atmosphere for skaters. Skateboarding, by its very nature a departure from the status quo, can be risky in Ireland. But despite the difficulties, the scene continues to grow as a result of the hard work of the local skaters. Project Skateshop has held a series of successful competitions that have attracted teams and skaters from around the United Kingdom. More events are being planned for the future and there is talk of building an indoor skatepark in Belfast called North Division . •