SPTjam was established in 2021 following a community-led petition to raise £18,500 for the resurfacing of Southport’s outdoor skatepark.

The campaign brought local skaters together and highlighted a wider gap in opportunities for organised rollerblading events across the North West of England.

 

What began as a grassroots initiative quickly developed into a wider community movement. In its early days, the local skating community in Southport was small, with only a handful of regular participants. Through the introduction of SPTjam events, that community has grown significantly, connecting skaters who may not otherwise have crossed paths and creating a stronger, more supportive local network. The first SPTjam event was held at Southport Outdoor Skatepark and attracted around 50 skaters, demonstrating clear demand for an inclusive, well-organised rollerblading event in the region.

 

As the event developed and participation increased year on year, SPTjam adapted to meet new challenges. Reliance on outdoor venues and unpredictable weather led to a move to indoor skateparks, including Junction 4 Skatepark, before establishing a long-term relationship with Rampworx Skatepark, one of the UK’s most established and respected indoor skate facilities. This move provided a stable environment that allowed the event to continue growing in scale, consistency, and professionalism.

 

By 2024, SPTjam welcomed over 100 entrants across men’s, women’s, and junior categories — a level of participation not seen in many years within the UK rollerblading scene. Today, the event attracts skaters from more than 20 countries, alongside hundreds of spectators, contributing to the local economy and strengthening partnerships with host venues and local businesses.

 

Alongside its growth, SPTjam has made a clear commitment to fairness, accessibility, and equality within the sport. The event operates with equal prize money for men’s and women’s categories, reinforcing a strong ethos of equity at every level of competition. From 2026, SPTjam will also introduce free event entry for all under-16s, removing financial barriers and actively encouraging young skaters to take part.

 

Beyond competition, SPTjam is committed to creating an inclusive, welcoming, and respectful environment for everyone involved. The event provides a safe space where people from different backgrounds, identities, and beliefs can come together through a shared passion for rollerblading. SPTjam is proud of the diverse communities represented at its events and works to ensure that all participants feel supported, valued, and able to take part with confidence.

 

SPTjam’s work extends beyond skating alone. The organisation aims to promote positive physical, emotional, and social development, particularly for young people and first-time competitors. By prioritising accessibility, fairness, and community connection, SPTjam continues to build an event and wider programme that supports long-term participation and strengthens the rollerblading community at every level.