The ollie, kickflip and 50-50 grind are only a few of the sick tricks you'll see East Valley skaters performing Saturday during Skatefest 2004. East Valley skateboarder Mike Dominguez says he's looking forward to showcasing some of his moves. “I'm working on just not falling and having styles and pulling off really hard tricks,’’ Dominguez, 16, of Tempe, says. “I'll probably do some launches and vert (ramp) tricks.’’

In addition to an abundance of skaters, Skatefest 2004 will feature skateboard store booths, a raffle and performances by Valley bands Four Bill Stall and Cold Fusion. A DJ will spin music by local bands and skaters with the best moves will win $250 for first place and $75 for best trick.
Dominguez, who has been skating for nearly six years, is no stranger to the contest circuit. He placed first at this year's Van's Warped Tour during a vert contest.

"They flew me down to San Jose, Calif., to skate in a Vans Am contest," he says.

He also scored new skateboard gear after placing first in a contest at Revolution Skatepark, a Tempe skatepark that has since closed.
Like many skaters, Dominguez says he can't help but notice how the skate scene has evolved.

"There’s lots of new skateparks that they’ve been building,’’ he says. “They’re always crowded. There are a lot of skaters now, too ... I guess it's a good thing to keep you in shape and out of trouble."