Creating Safe Spaces for Youth Talent: Paquera’s Stunt Tournament

Saturday’s Stunt Tournament in Paquera was much more than an afternoon of impressive tricks and friendly competition. Organized by the Asociación de Desarrollo para la Juventud de Paquera (ADEJ), the event had a deeper purpose: to motivate local youth to continue developing their skills — and to advocate for safer places where they can practice.

In recent years, a small but passionate group of young riders has been steadily building their stunt and BMX skills. Without a dedicated skatepark or safe practice area, many of them have trained on regular public roads. While their determination is admirable, practicing in traffic presents clear risks — both for the youth themselves and for drivers in the community.

Recognizing this challenge, community leaders have stepped forward to help identify temporary spaces where the young riders can gather away from heavy traffic. The Bomberos Paquera have been especially supportive, generously allowing the youth to practice outside the fire station. Although this area still connects to a public road, it has provided a safer alternative and demonstrates the kind of collaboration that defines Paquera.

The tournament itself offered the participants a structured, fun, and organized day to showcase their skills. Riders competed among friends, encouraged one another, and proudly demonstrated the progress they have achieved through persistence and self-teaching. Families and neighbors gathered to support them, turning the afternoon into a celebration of youth initiative and creativity.

But beyond the excitement and applause, this event represents a first step toward a larger goal: working toward dedicated areas where these young athletes can safely train and grow their sport. Providing secure recreational spaces is not just about infrastructure — it is about investing in prevention, wellbeing, and opportunity.

When youth are given safe environments to practice their passions, the entire community benefits. Their energy becomes a positive force, their skills continue to develop, and their sense of belonging strengthens.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

·        Mangle Store

·        Coopeguanacaste

·        Hotel Isla Chiquita Glamping

·        Naviera Tambor

·        Cabinas y Restaurante Alemar

·        Hotel Restaurante Ginana

·        Heladería Passion Fruit

·        Hotel Barceló Playa Tambor

·        Ferretería RG 2000

·        Ferretería Cóbano Paquera S.A.

·        Panadería La Espiga de Oro Paquera

·        Taller Licho

·        Taller de Bicicletas Ulises

Appreciation to Our Collaborators

·        Bomberos Paquera

·        Instituto de Desarrollo Rural (INDER)

·        Acueducto Paquera

·        Escuela de Surf Peninsular

·        Concejo Municipal de Paquera

Together, these partnerships show what community truly means — recognizing a need, taking action, and working step by step toward safer and stronger opportunities for our youth.