On a large skateboard track, Kotzia Square was transformed for today, as it hosts for the first time the big celebration of Europe’s skateboarding, the Vans Shop Riot Finals.

The “present” is given by the Mayor of Athens, Haris Doukas, who talked to the athletes, and he also went up to a skate tasting his skills on the track.

“We are at Kotzia Square and for the first time we have in Athens final skateboard, a very important Olympic sport and we are very happy that leading athletes from all over Europe will come to compete. And of course a social message, mental health issues. Because, above all, championship and sport are joy. And today’s event takes place in memory of a leading athlete who committed suicide at an early age. That is why for young children we give a message that we have to rejoice when we sport, “said Athens Mayor Haris Doukas.

Kitzia Square track for skateboarding

Co -organized with the Municipality of Athens, Kotzia today functions as a skatepark for the needs of the big final. From three in the afternoon the square has been flooded by young and older skaters who are preheated for the finals. The Greek skate team of Vans will be involved in the event and the final – instead of Sunday, due to weather conditions – will be participating in the Greek skate team, as well as well -known skate riders from the European team, such as Chris Pfanner, Doobie, Willow Voges Fernandes, Martino Cattaneo, Helena Long, Vanessa Konte and Axel Cruysberghs.

It is noted that the proceeds from the canteens will be donated to the stray shelter of the Municipality of Athens, “Socrates” and for every sale of clothing or shoes, another will be donated by the Center for Reception and Solidarity of the Municipality of Athens.