EXTREME sports enthusiasts are preparing to step into the skatepark as the Urban Riders Games hit Swindon – featuring the best of the town’s skateboarders, scooter and BMX riders.

The event, organised by ATBShop Skateware-house on the Hawksworth Trading estate, will be held on April 10 with the cream of Swindon’s extreme sport scene descending on the skatepark.

An evening of high-octane free-wheeling is expected as they compete for a podium finish and trophy.

Diana Kirk, co-owner of ATB, said: “The competition is a chance for all extreme sports lovers to take it to the next level – we’re really looking forward to it.”

Winners will be given the VIP treatment as they pick up prizes such as skateboard decks, trainers, t-shirts, accessories and the grand prize – a Crisp Scooter, donated by the Swindon Advertiser.

With esteemed judges including pro-rider and toast of the scooter world Ryan McNamara competition is set to be fierce – ATB expect there to be 100 competitors on the night in front of an audience of 300.

ATB said they wanted to run the awards due the negative reputation that fans of extreme sports have in the town.

Diana said: “We wanted to dispel the image that people have when they look at people on BMXs and scooters. People assume they are going to cause trouble and that people will be wearing hooded jackets.

“The games are about getting people to forget about that and the extreme sports community being able to showcase their talents.

“It’s a good way for children to exercise and socialise – a lot of them come down after school and it is amazing how talented they are at such young ages. We had one boy doing backflips casually on his way out.”

The awards will be sponsored big names such as Dominos Pizza Swindon, Crisp Scooters and the Swindon Advertiser.

Diana, who was previously a mountain-board champion, said that she understands if the youngsters feel nervous.

“I can sympathise with all the kids as I know what it feels like to go out there and try and perform to the best of your abilities; it’s tough but they are amazingly talented. They’re really excited about it," she said.

“We wanted Swindon to get behind us and they did. This event is about having a fantastic evening but most importantly showing off what these kids can do. They have real talent.”