a thrilling three-day festival where top action sports stars shine.
This year, the event shifted to Virginia Beach, Virginia. It made history by holding the US's first legal building BASE event.
Founded by a group of action sports enthusiasts in 2012, the festival aims to bring together athletes from various disciplines, including skateboarding, BMX, motocross, climbing, and BASE jumping
Catherine Vaillancourt Roy, an organizer since 2017, shares this excitement. “It’s nice to see it grow! So far, we have had no incidents, and we are working hard to keep it that way. Stoked to share it with more jumpers and in different places. The future of JACKALOPE is exciting!” she says.
"It's nice to see it grow!"
It's the perfect meetup for action sports communities. It brings the best athletes and fans together. “Having a legal building event is something every American BASE jumper has dreamed about since their first BASE jumps." Says professional BASE jumper Matt Laj. "Actually getting to participate in such an event was a privilege. I think we all hope it is a building block for future building events. The more that events like this happen safely, the more likely it is we can have more events like this in the future. Ideally, we will see more events in the future, which would allow more jumpers the opportunity to participate and enjoy the chance to session a building.”
“Having a legal building event is something every American BASE jumper has dreamed about.."
Talking about the event, Laj says, "It was incredible. It was similar to the Montreal vibe in that it was packed with spectators just enjoying tons of athletes demonstrate their skills. Being that the location was pinned between a city and the ocean/beach, really made this environment special... The crowd was awesome. Even all the athletes seemed to enjoy making time to watch other activities. By the last day everyone was making their rounds to catch the final competitions. It was a super positive crowd with good vibes and an incredible setting. Sometimes as I think just about the event, it almost feels unreal that we were standing on the beach listening to waves break throughout the weekend.”
The 2023 event in Virginia Beach had over 50,000 spectators and 500 athletes from eight countries. On the third day, the BASE accuracy competition took place on the beach next to Tony Hawk's vert ramp!
This year’s BASE accuracy winners were Sean Chuma, Matt Laj, and Katie Hansen.
Besides competitions, the festival has exhibits, demos, and interactive sessions. Fans can learn from the pros, try new tricks, and even get autographs from their favorite athletes. It's an immersive experience that mixes athletes and fans, creating fun and friendship.And yes, fans even got to meet the legendary Tony Hawk!
Excited for the next one? So are we!
Katelyn is an accomplished wingsuit BASE pilot and professional performance competitor. She is passionate about education and is an active skydive coach and course facilitator. Follow @yanicknolet and @_jayperreault_ on Instagram for more epic Images