An introduction to the Governing body of UK All Terrain Boarding

The All Terrain Boarding Association represents ALL British mountainboarders. If you are a 14 year old emo goth punker or a 44 year old banker, so long as you’re on a mountainboard, the ATBA UK thinks it ís all good. They want to spread the word to the herd and have helped to create the British scene as we know it.

This is a group of riders and parents who are continuing to do the work that needs to be done to provide the backbone for this sport we love. From overseeing the instruction of instructors at centres, to liaising with authorities on codes of conduct for free riding freedom. They encourage promotion of the sport, and continue to chase recognition as such from official government body, Sport England. Oh, and they put on one of the most exciting competition series you’ve ever seen.

2009 marks the 12th year of the ATBA UK, which is testament to the hard work of numerous unsung heroes, all of whom are riders themselves. The public seem to be vaguely aware of us lot these days, but news is only just creeping out about sport’s best kept secret; the adrenaline and rivalry of 4 man boardercross racing, and the jaw dropping freestyle - big air and crazy rotations pushing what you thought was possible. The very nature of the events too is both addictive and infectious, like mini festivals, fuelled by mountainboarding.

1997 saw the first UK series wink into existence, and since then thousands of riders have been given the chance to compete. It has been and is still the chance to get together with like-minded people and share our passion. Herds of mountainboarders, camped in prime riding locations over the summer months. The events have been getting bigger and better, each round creating it’s own amazing stories and surprises. Last year was no exception with all the trials and tribulations you would expect from the British weather alone.

Rain aside, spectator and new rider numbers alike have been increasing steadily, and every year has plenty of dirtheads and air monkeys queuing up to be the best in the country at what they do.

These riders will be going head to head once again this season. The 2009 championships are speeding toward us, ego’s and riding styles battling for glory on ever more challenging courses. Technicalities with timing and rankings have been improved, and yet the general consensus is that everyone just wants to ride and have a laugh.

The comps are still very grass roots. With a simple approach, excitement is guaranteed whether you’re a spectator or participant, so get on it.

If you are a seasoned pro or a first time entrant, props, and good luck next season. We are all looking forward to what is set to be another fantastic series, and your support is vital. So, go practise and challenge yourself to having some serious competitive fun, or come along and witness this spectacular series. It is history in the making, folks.

And what does the future hold for the ATBA-UK?

The fact that All Terrain Boarding has over the last few years become more well known as Mountain Boarding, may mean that the nature and indeed name of the ATBA will change too.

After last years AGM and subsequent meetings since, it is obvious that too much politics spoils the boarding broth. The feedback that follows is testament to the fact that the riding public care, but are often loathe to do anything about it themselves, except maybe moaning in online forums. It is managed by people like You and I, for all of us on mountainboards, so your help, support and understanding are always welcomed. The ATBA has already had a busy year and, like our sport, is constantly evolving. Differing opinions and fiery, passionate characters have slightly fractured key roles, hence the restructure to bring them back on track.

Evolution is the key to survival, and your sports governing body is going back to basics to concentrate on what is important. They are bringing together the media, public, trade, sponsors, centres and Riders with the aim of helping everyone to enjoy mountainboarding even more than they do now.

Find out more about your ATBA, announcements about the comps, how to join and how to get involved by visiting the website here