Lasek’s entry in the 2005 Vert Championship was announced today alongside the confirmation of a line-up of world-famous skateboarding stars in Slam City Jam’s “Legends of Street” contest. Confirmed Legends include Steve Caballero, Ron Allen, Eric Dressen, Tom Knox, Chris Pastras, and Chris Cook all of the United States.
“The addition of Bucky Lasek to our entry list for 2005 enhances Slam City Jam at so many levels,” said Kleo Landucci, President of Solo Mobile Slam City Jam. “We’re excited to add his star power to an already impressive line-up that rivals the best in Slam City Jam history and we’re proud to have him back as a defending champion in the Vert competition. We’re also pleased that our many new fans will have the chance to see one of the world’s top skateboarding personalities return to Vancouver.”
Lasek joins a list of male entries that features former Street champions Ryan Sheckler and Greg Lutzka, both Americans, Steve Caballero, and Canadians Chris Haslam of North Vancouver, B.C., Paul Machnau of Cranbrook, B.C. and Josh Evin of Nelson, B.C. Lyn-z Adams Hawkins of the U.S., another high-profile X Games medalist and star, is among the top female entries.
“We’re committed to showcasing the best of the best across the board and the addition of Bucky Lasek goes a long way to making the event complete,” said Landucci.
Hailing from Baltimore, Maryland, Lasek first picked up a skateboard at the age of 12 after his bike was stolen. He quickly climbed up the ranks and has been a top pro for eight years. Known for his smooth and fluid style, Lasek gained worldwide attention by winning eight X Games medals, including five golds. He became the first male athlete in the history of the action sports extravaganza to win back-to-back gold medals and has now done so twice (in 1999/2000 and 2003/2004). He also captured top honours in the 2004 Vert competitions at the Vans Triple Crown and the Gravity Games.
Sponsored by Vans, Billabong, RDS, Independent, Boneless, and Clive, Lasek is a character in Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater video games and was the first action sports star to grace the cover of ESPN: The Magazine.
Lasek, the Legends and other top stars will arrive in Vancouver the week of August 22-28, which has been proclaimed Skateboarding Week by Vancouver Mayor Larry Campbell.
“Vancouver has emerged as one of the continent’s skateboarding meccas and we want it to be known over time both for the pros it produces and the participation it boasts at the community level, among men and women,” added Landucci. “That’s why we’re so pleased that Mayor Larry Campbell and city council have recognized the growth of skateboarding as an important activity and as part of our west coast culture.”
The Solo Mobile Slam City Jam presented by VANS will bring together more than 150 of the top skateboarders in the world for Vert, Street and Girls competitions Aug. 26-28. Entering its 12th year, the event is also sponsored by Oxy and New Era Caps. Tickets for Solo Mobile Slam City Jam are available at all Ticketmaster outlets, online at www.ticketmaster.ca or by phone (604) 280-4400.
Check out www.slamcityjam.com for the latest updates and schedule information.
