Home Town Classic 3

The first day featured a challenging back-to-back race format, with hybrid and tight slalom events scheduled for the same day. The hybrid slalom kicked off the competition, pushing racers to generate speed on a course with a minimal slope.

After qualifying, we saw some very tight head to head racing. In the men’s division, Joe McLaren claimed the top spot, followed closely by Orion Lehrmann and Joseph Kyle Smith, both of whom showcased their continued prowess in the pro circuit. In the women’s division, the National Team swept the podium with Lynn Kramer taking first place, Jennifer Coppa securing second, and Francesca Rosario-Custodio finishing third.

Following the hybrid slalom, everyone took a break to eat lunch and the organizers prepared for the tight slalom race. As it was already late in the afternoon by this point, it was determined that the tight slalom would be conducted as a single-lane event, with each racer’s best time determining the final results. Once everyone had gotten a few practice runs in on the challenging course, racing began.

Tragically, early in the second run, Ben Buckles suffered a severe crash, resulting in a broken orbital bone and needing to be taken off the hill by ambulance. Luckily, we soon got word that he was OK and would be back later that evening to rest and begin his recovery. Given the late hour and the impact on participants’ spirits, the organizers decided to call off the remaining races for the day. At this point, every racer had laid down a single time to place them.

Once again, Joe McLaren triumphed in the tight slalom, edging out Joseph Kyle Smith by .2 seconds, with Orion Lehrmann taking third. Lynn Kramer also secured her second win of the day in the women’s division, followed by Jennifer Coppa in second and Francesca Rosario-Custodio in third.

Post-race festivities took place at the home of race organizer Scott Kamis, located at the top of the course. Attendees enjoyed his renowned home cooking, featuring an array of smoked meats, along with beers and awards. Thanks to the generous sponsors, everyone had a chance to pick from a bounty of swag.

Sunday morning brought every racer and organizer’s worst nightmare: rain. Consequently, the decision was made to cancel the day’s races.

A heartfelt thank you to the entire race organization team for an incredible weekend of slalom skateboarding, to the sponsors and supporters of the Hometown Classic, and to all the racers who participated! We are wishing Ben a speedy recovery