If skating is an analogy for life then contests would be the equivalent of going to work. While most of us do not live to work it’s something we still do as a necessary evil that is part of life just not necessarily an enjoyable part. Fortunately, once a year the Tim Brauch Memorial Contest comes along to show what a contest could really be . . a celebration.

This year the 16th annual Tim Brauch Memorial “Celebration” saw a couple of changes but still produced what it’s known for, great energy and incredible skating. The most notable change was that the event was split into two days to accommodate the number of riders and divisions without turning it into a one day test of endurance for the riders as well as the spectators, a great call by the organizers. Secondly a deep pocket sponsor was lined up to avoid the possibility of a cancelation which the event nearly suffered from last year. Saturday hosted qualifying and finals for all the amateurs.

While some come only to see the best of the best (i.e. the masters and pros), if you want to see some real and inspiring skating in a contest format then watch the kids, they have the passion and drive that makes skating what it is. Their significance to skating’s future can’t be overestimated, it’s always good to keep an eye on what’s coming.

Sunday was marquee day with the men’s and women’s pro divisions lined up for battle. It was a day I’m sure Tim was smiling over as every skater threw everything he/she had at the skull bowl. While the level of skating was intense as always the really special thing about this event is that the “competition” aspect takes a back seat to the real reason for all of this, to celebrate Tim’s spirit and the joy we all share in being a part of the skating family. You can see it when the riders on deck congratulate and hug each other after every run . . they are not competing as much as sharing. The sincere joy and gratitude is palpable and it’s awesome to see these skaters that dedicate so much to their profession still be able to feel and appreciate what it’s really all about. The crowd as well is not only treated to some of the best skating in the world but they also get the rare treat of being able to glimpse the soul of this art, definitely a special time for all.

Every skater that entered the event should be proud of their effort and honored to be a part of this legacy. There is one award that merits mention as it’s central to what the TBMC is all about. This years “Spirit of Tim” award went to Jed Fuller and it appeared to be unanimous throughout the competitors who give an informal vote to pick the recipient. Jed travels a long way to compete here every year and if you’ve ever seen him skate you know he charges every second. More importantly he is always smiling and stoked just to be skating with friends and living life legitimately. It was a great celebration to remember Tim and the true reason we all skate . . to feel the joy of being with friends and to live life on our terms. Thank you to all the organizers, sponsors and to Tim’s spirit for giving us this opportunity. Peace- Scott Foss

PRO- 1-Alex Sorgente, 2- Josh Rodriguez, 3- Daniel Cuervo

MASTERS- 1- Steve Caballero, 2- Steve Revord, 3- Josh Nelson

WOMENS- 1- Kisa Nakamura, 2-Arianna Carmona, 3- Sarah Thompson

Am Ladies- <14 1- Poppy Starr Olsen, 2- Brighton Zeuner, 3- Spencer Breaux

Am Ladies->15 1- Jordyn Barratt, 2- Pauline Branom, 3- Erin Wolfkiel

Am Men- <14 1- Jack Winburn, 2- Evan Doherty, 3- Kiko Francisco

Am Men- >15 1-  Nick Wallace, 2- Charlie Martin, 3- Bobo

Addendum- I could not be present at this years event and I asked Lorrie Palmos to send me some photographs. Scott Foss joined in and wrote a great piece. I  randomly placed the photographs that I found interesting into the article. I thank both Lorrie and Scott for their contributions. Skate- Ozzie