Hi, I’m Charlie, and I’m 11 years old. I love skating, and the skatepark means a lot to me and my friends—it’s where we hang out, have fun, and get better.

So I’ve decided to take on a challenge to help raise money for a brand-new outdoor skatepark. I’m going to skate at least 5km around Gosling Park Velodrome… which is a lot of laps! At the same time, my coach Josh Hills will be skating a full marathon, which makes my challenge look a bit easier!

To make it more interesting (and a bit embarrassing), I’ll be doing it in a dress. I haven’t picked which one yet, so the outfit is still subject to change—but whatever I choose, it should be fun (for you, at least).

If you can, please support me and help make this new skatepark happen. It would mean so much to me and loads of other kids.

Thanks for cheering me on!

– Charlie

Help The Pioneer Build a Skatepark for Everyone

We're raising £200,000 to build a new outdoor concrete skatepark at The Pioneer in St Albans – and we need your help!

In the 1990s, volunteers built the original park from scratch. For nearly 30 years, it’s been a home for skaters, in-liners and scooter riders to learn, grow and connect. Now, it's time for the next chapter.

We’re working with Betong Park to create a safer, smoother, more creative space that still holds the spirit of the original – just with better flow and a design that’ll last for decades.

This isn’t just about ramps. It’s about giving young people a place to belong, to fall and get back up, to build confidence and community.

We want a park for all ages and skill levels – where the old teach the new, and skate culture continues to thrive.

Skating builds resilience, creativity, and keeps us moving – body and mind. Help us make this happen.

Let’s build this together.