Skateparks are the lifeblood of freestyle BMX. In 2012, our local Apple Valley Skatepark was skateboard-only — no bikes allowed. We petitioned the city to open it up to BMX so the kids around here could develop their skills, push each other, and have a place to ride. And honestly? It's just fun.

Having Eddie Fiola as our former Freestyle Team Manager made this personal. If you don't know Eddie, he's the King of the Skateparks — full stop. We weren't about to let the local park stay off-limits to BMX riders.

Now with our park rider Marcus Christopher carrying the torch, we're doing everything we can to keep that tradition alive.