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CONTENTS 6: INTERVIEW: EFFRAIM CATLOW 8: HARDWARE INSIGHT 14: TOTAL BMX: COMPANY INSIGHT 16: TESTED AND RATED 18: FRAME INSIGHT
ISSUE:1
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Full name: Effraim John Catlow Age/birthday: 3/8/74 Current hometown: Southsea, UK Sponsors: Profile, ZION hooked me up with prototype frame. You’ve been part of the BMX world ever since you were a kid, what started everything off for you and how did you get into BMX? - I started riding 26 years ago, I first saw BMX in a magazine called BMx action bike, then i became hooked on it, i always like the individuality in it, you can create what you want and how you interpret the bike. Very few riders have been in the game as long as you, would you say the BMX community has gotten better or worse over the years? - I wouldn’t say much has changed, all thats changed is the internet, and people have more of a voice that wasn’t their previously, who’s to say whats better really. What has been your most favorite period in BMX? - I’ve enjoyed it all but probably 97 till 2004, regularly travelling on the X trials circuit, X games, great experiences money cannot buy, and memories I will have forever.
What are your responsibilities regarding Southsea Skate Park? I basically am being trained to manage Southsea skatepark, i’m on managerial training currently, 6 month course, responsibilities at park vary from day to cash cash handling, office work, taking orders, general repairs, painting ramps, maintenanace, the list goes on and increases more you get involved in the job. Southsea Skate Park has been undergoing maintenance including the refurbishment of the street section last year, what further improvements are you planning on doing if all goes to plan? The next project is the spine mini to be fixed, hopefully that will start within the next month ready for the summer season, then the vert ramp to be repaired. The big project is the bowls, but thats long term. I’ve heard a lot about Southseas possible closure, is it safe for now? Yes its safe for now, a Skatepark company has been formed and will take over the park out of council hands from April 2011. 3 things most people don’t know about you? - That I ride more than anyone else at the park. Its just when they are not there! I’m a five times X games medallist/I’m twice professional world flatland champion. I used to ride ramps, and won the King of Concrete a few times.
Same question, but your least fun time? - Anytime injured, but thats part of the whole ballgame. Have you been unfortunate enough to have any serious injuries? if so what has been the worst? - Two broken legs I guess, and combined over a year out as a result. Favorite stop to ride? - Locally Southsea skatepark is my favourite place to ride, I also have an indoor spot to ride which when its your own spot and you can go there regularly, you grow and adjust accordingly, travelling wise Tokyo and San Francisco have been my favourites. How would you describe your style on a bike? - Smooth and controlled.
If someone or a group of rider were contemplating coming to Southsea Skate Park, what would you say to them? - To call up and check the opening times, the number is 02392 295360 and let us know when your coming, everyones welcome, and we look forward to having you come shred the park. Top 3: Things to do besides BMX? - Work on my blog (wait thats bmx related duh). Go out with girlfriend and friends. Travelling.
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