A six-year-old Squamish skateboarder is so eager to see a new skateboard park constructed near Howe Sound Secondary School he decided to use his birthday to raise money for it.
Wyatt Gilson did his part to move the project along by asking his friends to donate money to the construction project.
On Saturday (June 18) Wyatt invited 25 friends to his birthday party and asked them to bring a donation. Wyatt's parents created a skateboard and bike theme at their house for the boys and girls at the birthday party. The yard featured an obstacle course designed for bike and skateboard riders and included a half pipe. Skateboard music was featured throughout the party. There was also a bouncy castle and a water balloon game, Wyatt said.
The inspiration to raise money for a worthy cause came from Wyatt's friend Nicky, who gathers money for charitable causes at his birthday parties.
Wyatt's mom, Audrey, said she talked to Wyatt about the opportunity to raise money and it was Wyatt's idea to collect funds for the park.
Wyatt said he thought it was a neat idea to gather money for the skateboard park.
The park is currently under construction. The mayor wants the facility to open this summer.
Wyatt said he thinks skateboarding is fun.
"You get to do tricks and stuff," he said.
His favourite trick involves pressing the back of the board with his foot to make the front wheels rise off the ground.
The six-year-old attended the regular meeting of District of Squamish Council on Tuesday (June 21) with his skateboard and his helmet. He presented the money he raised to Mayor Ian Sutherland.
The mayor accepted the money from Wyatt and presented him with a one-year pass for skating and swimming at Brennan Park. Wyatt also received a free set of swimming lessons and 20 free passes for his parents.
"Wyatt is a great young man," Sutherland said.
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