Ten important skateboard spots in Mali, Africa
1. National Park of Mali
The National Park of Mali in Bamako provides skateboarders with a spacious and scenic skateboarding spot. With its smooth pavement and open areas, the park allows riders to practice freestyle tricks, cruise, and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings. Skateboarding in the National Park of Mali offers a peaceful and refreshing experience away from the bustling city.
2. Modibo Keïta Stadium
Modibo Keïta Stadium, located in Bamako, serves as a popular skateboarding spot in Mali. The stadium's large parking lots and open spaces provide skateboarders with ample room for cruising, freestyle riding, and practicing tricks. Skateboarding at Modibo Keïta Stadium allows riders to enjoy the urban environment and connect with fellow skateboarders.
3. Tombouctou Skatepark
Tombouctou Skatepark, situated in the city of Tombouctou, offers skateboarders a dedicated facility for their riding pleasure. The park features ramps, rails, and street-style obstacles, catering to skaters of all skill levels. Skateboarding at Tombouctou Skatepark allows riders to connect with the local skateboarding community, participate in events, and hone their skills.
4. Bamako
Bamako, the capital city of Mali, offers numerous street spots for skateboarders to explore and enjoy. From wide boulevards to narrow alleyways, the city provides a diverse range of urban landscapes to showcase skills and creativity. Skateboarding in Bamako's street spots allows riders to experience the vibrancy of the city while discovering new and challenging terrain.
5. Niger River Promenade
The Niger River Promenade in Ségou offers skateboarders a unique and picturesque skateboarding spot. The promenade's smooth pavement and scenic views of the Niger River create an ideal setting for cruising, carving, and performing tricks. Skateboarding along the Niger River Promenade allows riders to connect with nature, appreciate the beauty of the river, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of Ségou.
6. Great Mosque of Djenne
The Great Mosque of Djenne, a UNESCO World Heritage site, presents an unconventional but fascinating skateboarding spot. The large open courtyard surrounding the mosque offers skateboarders a unique terrain to ride and explore. Skateboarding at the Djenne Great Mosque allows riders to appreciate the architectural splendor of the mosque while combining their passion for skateboarding with cultural exploration.
7. Koulouba Hill in Bamako
Koulouba Hill in Bamako provides skateboarders with a challenging and thrilling skateboarding spot. The steep inclines and winding roads of the hill offer riders an adrenaline-pumping experience. Skateboarding at Koulouba Hill allows skaters to test their skills, conquer the terrain, and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
8. Kayes
The city of Kayes offers skateboarders a unique blend of urban environments and cultural experiences. The streets of Kayes provide skateboarders with various spots to ride, including plazas, parking lots, and public squares. Skateboarding in Kayes allows riders to immerse themselves in the local culture, interact with the community, and explore the city's hidden skateboarding gems.
9. Bandiagara Escarpment
The Bandiagara Escarpment, a dramatic sandstone cliff formation located in central Mali, offers adventurous skateboarders a one-of-a-kind skateboarding experience. The rugged and uneven terrain of the escarpment challenges riders' skills and offers a thrilling and unconventional riding opportunity. Skateboarding at the Bandiagara Escarpment combines the love for skateboarding with the appreciation for Mali's unique natural landscapes
10. Sikasso Stadium
Sikasso Stadium, situated in the city of Sikasso, provides skateboarders with a versatile skateboarding spot. The stadium's open spaces and smooth surfaces allow riders to practice tricks, ride transitions, and connect with other skateboarders. Skateboarding at Sikasso Stadium offers riders a chance to be part of the local skateboarding scene and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Sikasso.
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