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Skateboarding as a hobby/sport started probably in the 1950s and since then had some rises and falls in popularity. At the current time, there are also a lot of skaters exercising this sport in Vienna, but there aren't any skate halls anymore. For people that are really into this sport, that is quite frustrating, especially in winter seasons. Therefore, the Skateboard Club Vienna has been approached by the city of Vienna to tackle this topic. After some struggle of finding the right place, an empty warehouse has been found in the 21. district of Vienna that can be transformed into a new paradise for skating enthusiasts. The challenge to overcome bureaucratic obstacles is an enormous task that is not fulfilled overnight, especially for people that come from a culture that thrives upon the sensation of freedom. Luckily for the skate culture, the Skateboard Club Vienna is a highly organized and structured association that is up to the task at hand. But the first goal that they set for themselves, to open the hall in winter 2023, was a bit too enthusiastic. There were several topics and tasks that had to come first, especially the safety regulations. So they were forced to push the opening date further and further until the most recent opening time slot appears to be summer 2024. During this time they work fulltime to fulfill not only their own dream, but also the dream of so many waiting skaters. The space holds aprox. 1500 m² that will be filled with ramps, pools and other appropriate course structures that can be skated upon. There will be different time tables to ensure that all disciplines can be treated as they prefer. FLINTA* and school course time slots are also available. Since Skateboarding is a sport that typically uses the city and its architectures to express the rebellious hunger for freedom, this urban style skateboarding culture will probably never cease. But with the recent inclusion of skateboarding into the olympics, the need for more disciplined, structured and especially funded playsessions, sorry, wanted to say sportsessions, will grow bigger. Here is where this Skate Hall Vienna in Floridsdorf will play a crucial role in the Topographies of Viennese Play Cultures.
