A definite party of a scene - perfect for the NISS 1998 National Finals.
Venice Beach is reputed to be the place where inline free style was born -
home to Brian Smith, AJ Jackson and a slue of others.
The long board walk boasts of colorful T-shirts - sun glass stands, Palm readers, Body Builders, coffee shops and daytime venders.
Graffiti developed over the years is some of the best work we've ever seen. A perfect backdrop for the event of the year!
Skaters from all over the world qualified for the Street Course Finals.
The plywood extended street course added an extra challenge as the tension grew.
The famous huge NISS starter ramp set up for some major air over the first launch -
right into the double spine with connecting rail in front of the Press Stand!
Off onto transitional walls - plenty of quarters for direction change - Bauer Box coming down the other side - right in front of the Judging booth
-Plenty of room (dodging the Palm trees) to make it back to the starter ramp for a forever grind to finish as shown here:
The layout RULED!
The men's competition totaled a $4000 purse! The women competed for considerably less because of the size of the field. "We need to encourage more Women to come out and get involved" said Kate Gengo."The talent is definitely there!"
Now - on to the VERT Comp....
For the complete wrap -
