Ten important skateboard spots in Guinea, West Africa
1. Conakry Skate Park
Conakry Skate Park, located in the capital city of Conakry, is the hub of Guinea's skateboarding scene. This well-designed skate park offers skateboarders a variety of ramps, rails, and obstacles to showcase their skills and creativity. Skateboarding at Conakry Skate Park allows riders to connect with the local skateboarding community, witness impressive tricks, and experience the lively atmosphere of the city.
2. Monument de la Revolution
Monument de la Revolution, situated in Conakry, is a prominent landmark that serves as a unique skateboarding spot. Its expansive square and smooth concrete surfaces provide skateboarders with ample space to practice tricks and enjoy the architectural beauty of the monument. Skateboarding at Monument de la Revolution allows riders to engage with Guinea's history, soak up the vibrant city ambiance, and showcase their skills in a culturally significant location.
3. Iles de Los
Iles de Los, a group of islands off the coast of Conakry, offers skateboarders a scenic and adventurous experience. While skateboarding on the islands themselves may be limited, the coastal areas surrounding the islands provide riders with beautiful beachside paths and promenades. Skateboarding near Iles de Los allows riders to enjoy breathtaking ocean views, feel the ocean breeze, and experience the relaxed coastal vibes of Guinea.
4. Almamya Stadium
Almamya Stadium, located in Conakry, is a multifunctional sports facility that serves as a thrilling skateboarding spot. The wide open spaces and smooth surfaces of the stadium grounds allow skateboarders to practice their skills, perform tricks, and experience the adrenaline of riding in a sports-centric environment. Skateboarding at Almamya Stadium allows riders to connect with the local sporting culture, witness other sports activities, and showcase their talent.
5. Fouta Djallon Highlands
The Fouta Djallon Highlands, situated in the region of Labe, offer skateboarders a unique and adventurous skateboarding experience in a natural setting. While skateboarding on the highlands themselves may be limited, the scenic roads and pathways winding through the mountains provide riders with thrilling downhill rides and breathtaking views. Skateboarding near the Fouta Djallon Highlands allows riders to explore the natural beauty of Guinea, experience the local culture, and challenge themselves in a picturesque landscape.
6. Dantokpa Market
Dantokpa Market, located in Conakry, is a bustling and vibrant marketplace that also serves as an interesting skateboarding spot. The spacious market square and surrounding streets provide skateboarders with a dynamic urban environment to navigate, perform tricks, and interact with the local community. Skateboarding at Dantokpa Market allows riders to immerse themselves in Guinea's vibrant market culture, witness the daily hustle and bustle, and showcase their skills in a unique setting.
7. Mount Nimba
Mount Nimba, situated in the Nimba range on the border of Guinea and Côte d'Ivoire, offers skateboarders an unparalleled skateboarding adventure in a mountainous landscape. While skateboarding on the mountain itself may not be feasible, the surrounding areas provide riders with challenging downhill rides, scenic routes, and breathtaking natural views. Skateboarding near Mount Nimba allows riders to connect with nature, experience the country's diverse geography, and embark on an unforgettable skateboarding journey.
8. Kankan Stadium
Kankan Stadium, located in the city of Kankan, is a notable sports venue that also doubles as an exciting skateboarding spot. The expansive grounds and smooth surfaces of the stadium provide skateboarders with ample space to showcase their skills, practice tricks, and engage with the local sports community. Skateboarding at Kankan Stadium allows riders to connect with Guinea's sporting culture, witness other sports activities, and enjoy the energetic atmosphere of the city.
9. Les Cascades
Les Cascades de la Soumba, situated in Kindia, offers skateboarders a unique skateboarding experience surrounded by nature's beauty. The cascading waterfalls and rocky terrain create a challenging and visually stunning environment for riders. Skateboarding near Les Cascades de la Soumba allows riders to appreciate Guinea's natural wonders, experience the thrill of riding in a scenic landscape, and enjoy the refreshing ambiance of the waterfalls
10. Labé University
Labé University, located in Labe, is not only an institution of higher learning but also a skateboarding spot favored by local riders. The university campus provides skateboarders with wide pathways, open spaces, and various structures that can be used for tricks and jumps. Skateboarding at Labé University allows riders to interact with the student community, witness academic life, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the campus.
Skateboarding is tribal and most locals are welcoming, but if you're new to a spot, or just passing through, have respect for the locals. Listen. Be smart. Have fun.
A human being
Art can change the world – and everybody is an artist. Those who scribble stickmen. Those who paint chapel ceilings. Those who tattoo biceps. Those who are careful with pigment on canvas. Those who create fantasy characters. Those who paint pet portraits. Those who yarn bomb. Those who write poems on crappy old cardboard.
My art lives on the bottom of skateboard decks. It's designed for you to destroy. For you, the rider, my art may come second to the deck’s ability to perform – and that’s awesome. To me, art comes first. Always.
It’s how I think. It’s who I am. It’s what I am.
A machine
This article has been created with the help of artificial intelligence platforms ChatGPT and Bard. If there are inaccuracies or there are opportunities for improvement, please let me know.
BellyRash