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Scene & Heard: ‘Attack the Track’ rolls joyously on

Published 3:33 pm Thursday, September 25, 2025

By Elizabeth Shepherd

Little ones lined up to “Attack the Track” at the BARC skate park. (Courtesy Photo)
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Little ones lined up to “Attack the Track” at the BARC skate park. (Courtesy Photo)

Little ones lined up to “Attack the Track” at the BARC skate park. (Courtesy Photo)
Best trick competitors lined up to compete for $10 cash prizes. (Tom Hughes Photo)
All ages came together together for the family-friendly event. (Tom Hughes Photo)
A skater lifts off at “Attack the Track.” (Tom Hughes Photo)
Judith Neary, seen here with a happy skater, was all smiles at “Attack the Track.” (Elizabeth Shepherd Photo)

Last Saturday, approximately 160 islanders turned out under blue skies for Vashon Park District’s third annual “Attack the Track” skate event at BARC Skate Park in Burton.

The high-octane, family-friendly celebration of skate culture featured performances by youth aerialists, open skating, music and contests that brought together skaters of all ages and skill levels.

“This event has become a family and community event here on Vashon Island,” said Eric Wyatt, the recreation manager at the Park District. “It was a thrill watching the younger kids, taking it all in and mesmerized by some of the older skaters. I am just so happy that with our community partners — RJ’s Kids, UMO Ensemble, the BARC stewards, Vashon Boards and Thriftway — we were able to offer the event again this year.”

The pump track, Wyatt pointed out, is a lasting tribute made possible by the inspiration and dedication of the nonprofit RJ’s Kids, founded by islander Judith Neary in memory of her son, RJ.

“Her organization played a crucial role in bringing the track to life and continues to support youth-focused community initiatives on the island,” said Wyatt. “We owe her and the BARC stewards a great deal of gratitude as they continue to make BARC a destination for kids, adults, and families.”

The Park District property, at 10500 SW 228th St, boasts a large “pump track” — a looping, rolling concrete course in a circular shape — memorial benches and space to play chess and checkers; new picnic tables and a bouldering wall.

For Neary, who presided over the event with a broad smile, greeting familiar faces and doling out $10 cash prizes to winning skaters, the event showed the promise of possibilities to come for the skate park and her nonprofit.

“The talent in our community is incredible and by working together we get to create a unique event that engages all varieties of islanders,” she said. “I’m looking forward to next year and expanding the experience.”

A total of 64 skaters, both registered and non-registered, were on deck for the event’s timed trials and best trick contests. To find out more about the skate park and other Park District programs, visit vashonparks.org.

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